Saipan, CNMI – The Supreme Court issued its opinion in Shon v. Choo , reversing the Superior Court’s decision to bar a quiet title action on the basis of laches, a doctrine which prevents a plaintiff from bringing suit after too much time has passed. The case concerns a disputed transfer of leasehold property in As Matuis, Saipan, that occurred after forged documents conveyed the leasehold without the leaseholder’s knowledge.   The Superior Court found that although the transfers were forged...

On December 5, 2025, the Supreme Court issued Administrative Order No. 2025-ADM­ 0014-MSC, , which closed Judiciary facilities on Friday, December 26, 2025 and Friday, January 2, 2026. E-filing portals (File and ServeXpress, eRecording, and eCourt) will remain open during the holidays. Bail, family protection, emergency, and time-sensitive matters may be set consistent with applicable rules. Judiciary personnel may be activated for emergency and essential services. Please visit the...

Saipan, CNMI – It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of former Chief Judge Alex R. Munson of the District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands. Judge Munson dedicated more than four decades of judicial service to the people of the Northern Mariana Islands and the broader Micronesian region. “Chief Judge Munson served the people of the Marianas with fairness, respect, and deep humanity,” said Chief Justice Alexandro C. Castro. “He brought a steady hand to every courtroom he...