Magistrate Judge Jonathan Quan made history as the first judge to be unanimously confirmed by the Guam Legislature to a third term as a magistrate. During his remarks, he emphasized teamwork, institutional resilience and service to future generations.
Supreme Court Chief Justice Katherine Maraman called his investiture a "significant milestone."
"It reflects not only his accomplishments over the past eight years but also the confidence that has been placed in his continued service," Maraman said. “He was just unanimously confirmed by the Guam legislature, and today, eight years later, he has once again received unanimous confirmation to serve on the bench.”
Maraman described Quan capable, dedicated, and thoughtful as she highlighted his professional experience in litigation and as a former prosecutor. She said he approaches each case with "preparation, fairness and careful consideration."
“He handles a demanding the case load with diligence and professionalism and has earned the confidence and respect of his colleagues,” Maraman said.
Quan noted the challenges the Judiciary faced during the COVID-era with increased case loads, decreased personnel and the teamwork that carried them through.
“I firmly believed and I still believe that we can weather those storms and what's coming before us if we work together just like we did before,” Quan said.
He reported the Judiciary handling approximately 5,000 cases per year, 700 hearings during COVID-19 conducted through telephone.
“Together with this team of people, we handled double duty with a vacancy of Judge Michael Bordallo," he said. "Then when Judge (Anita) Sukola retired, that team, we handled Judge Sukola's docket."
Quan also credited teamwork for bringing electronic monitoring and criminal justice reform noting it helped create the pre-trial and post adjudication programs.
Emphasizing teamwork as the backbone of the judiciary he said, "“Although the judges and justices may steer our proa, it is you who are the engine that powers and drives us forward.”