Practice Areas
DIVORCE
As a dedicated Kauai family law attorney, I guide clients through the emotional and legal complexities of divorce with compassion and clarity. Whether your case involves uncontested agreements, contested property division, spousal support, or high-asset separations, I focus on protecting your rights and achieving a fair resolution that supports your future stability. Drawing from Hawaii's equitable distribution laws and local family court practices, I help negotiate settlements, mediate disputes, or advocate zealously in court when needed. My goal is to minimize conflict where possible while ensuring you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
CUSTODY AND CUSTODY MODIFICATION
Child custody decisions are among the most important and heartfelt matters I handle for Kauai families. I represent parents in establishing initial custody arrangements (legal and physical), parenting time schedules, and relocation issues, always prioritizing the child's best interests under Hawaii law. For existing orders that no longer fit changing circumstances—like a parent's relocation, job change, or child's evolving needs—I assist with modifications to promote stability and positive co-parenting. Through negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings, I work tirelessly to secure arrangements that foster healthy relationships and protect your parental rights.
ADOPTION
Adoption is a joyful yet complex legal process, and I am honored to help Kauai families build or expand their 'ohana through stepparent, relative, private, or agency adoptions. I guide clients through home studies, consent requirements, termination of parental rights (when applicable), and finalization hearings in Hawaii family court. With attention to detail and sensitivity to all involved, I ensure compliance with state laws while focusing on the child's best interests and a smooth transition to your new family chapter.
GUARDIANSHIP
When a loved one—child or adult—needs protection due to incapacity, absence of parents, or other circumstances, I help establish guardianship in Hawaii courts. This includes temporary or permanent guardianship for minors (e.g., when parents are unavailable) or adults (for financial/medical decision-making). I prepare petitions, represent you at hearings, and address related issues like conservatorship of assets. My approach is compassionate and thorough, ensuring the arrangement safeguards the ward's well-being while honoring family dynamics.
LANDLORD-TENANT
I provide practical, efficient representation for Kauai landlords and tenants facing disputes under Hawaii's Residential Landlord-Tenant Code. For landlords, I handle evictions, lease enforcement, security deposit returns, and property damage claims. For tenants, I assist with wrongful eviction defenses, habitability issues, lease violations, and retaliation claims. Whether resolving matters through negotiation or in small claims/ district court, I aim for fair, timely outcomes that respect both parties' rights and minimize disruption in our close-knit island community.
TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS
In situations involving domestic violence, harassment, or threats to safety, I act quickly to help Kauai clients obtain or respond to temporary restraining orders (TROs) and protective orders under Hawaii law. I assist with filing petitions, preparing for ex parte hearings, and pursuing extensions or permanent injunctions. For respondents, I provide defense against unfounded claims while protecting your due process rights. My priority is your immediate safety and long-term security, with clear guidance through this often urgent and emotional process.
DOCUMENT DRAFTING
Many clients need straightforward, customized legal documents without full litigation. I draft or review key agreements such as prenuptial/postnuptial contracts, co-parenting plans, property settlement agreements, quitclaim deeds, simple wills, powers of attorney, and advance health care directives. Tailored to Hawaii requirements, these documents help prevent future disputes and provide peace of mind. I offer efficient, affordable service with clear explanations so you understand every provision.
Family Law Lawyer
About CMH LAW LLLC
I’m Casey Hutnick, a solo practitioner, proudly serving Kauai families since 2020, and providing dedicated and compassionate legal representation in family law matters—including divorce, child custody, support, paternity, adoptions, modifications, and document drafting (such as prenuptial agreements, co-parenting plans, and powers of attorney)—as well as landlord-tenant disputes, temporary restraining orders (TROs), and other civil matters. Licensed in both Hawaii and California, I bring experienced, personalized guidance rooted in our island community. At the University of Hawaii William S. Richardson School of Law, I built a strong foundation through work on wrongful conviction cases with the Hawaii Innocence Project, service as Editor for the University of Hawaii Law Review (Volume 42), and as a Research Assistant to Professor David L. Callies, a renowned authority in land use and property law. This culminated in co-authoring and editing "Steven Eagle and the Future of Regulatory Takings" with Professor Callies, published in the Brigham-Kanner Property Rights Journal (Volume 9). Deeply connected to Hawaii, I remain committed to listening attentively to each client's story, advocating zealously on their behalf, and helping them achieve fair, stable, and successful resolutions for their families and futures. In addition to these core areas, I’ve assisted clients with a variety of other matters, including appeals, probate, and related civil issues—feel free to contact me to discuss your unique situation.
