Robert G. Klein

Robert G. Klein is a former Associate Justice of the Hawai`i Supreme Court whose legal practice covers a wide spectrum of complex matters. His experience includes handling civil and construction litigation, appellate work, administrative hearings, and alternative dispute resolution. He has represented clients in cases involving constitutional rights, Native Hawaiian issues, trusts, closely held corporations, and corporate governance. His work also extends to disputes concerning real estate, land use, contract matters, and serious personal injury claims.

Robert began his academic journey at Stanford University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1969. He then attended the University of Oregon School of Law, completing his Juris Doctor in 1972. That same year, he was admitted to the Hawaii Bar and the U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaii. His strong educational foundation provided the groundwork for a career that has spanned courtroom advocacy, judicial service, and leadership in the legal profession.

Robert served as a District Court Judge beginning in 1978 before being elevated to the Circuit Court in 1984, where he presided over civil, criminal, tax, land, probate, and motions courts. In 1992, he was appointed to the Hawaii Supreme Court, serving as Associate Justice until 2000. During this period, he authored hundreds of opinions that shaped Hawaii law and strengthened judicial precedent. Earlier in his career, he had served as Deputy Attorney General in the Anti-Trust Division, Executive Director of the State Campaign Spending Commission, and as a Complaints Officer for the Department of Regulatory Agencies.

Robert G. Klein continues to apply the insight gained from decades of judicial and legal service to help clients address challenging legal disputes with skill, fairness, and dedication. He is an active member of both the Hawai`i State Bar Association and the American Bar Association, contributing to the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Sections of each organization. His reputation for excellence in the profession is reflected by his AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest rating given to attorneys for professional skill and ethical standards. His extensive appearances before state and federal courts, including the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, underscore his deep commitment to advocacy.

Law Office Affiliations

• Senior Partner, Klein Law Group
• Member, Hawaii State Bar Association, Litigation & Dispute Resolution Section
• Member, American Bar Association, Litigation & Dispute Resolution Section

Licensed State

• Hawaii

Education

• University of Oregon School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Stanford University, Stanford
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges