Courts director retires after 24 years

Margarita M. Palacios, Director of Courts, will be retiring after serving the CNMI Judiciary for 24 years. Palacios began her career as an Administrative Officer and was the first female Clerk of Court in 1985, serving the Superior Court until 1992.

She then transitioned to the Supreme Court, acting as Court Administrator from 1992 to 1999. In 1999, Palacios took office as the Director of Courts, again the first female appointed to the position. In April 2008, Palacios announced her intention to retire from her longstanding career.

In her years of Judicial service, Palacios has also served as the CNMI Bar Exam Administrator, and shouldered duties such as hiring and supervising staff, managing the budget, managing the facilities and court calendars, and developing and managing court security plans.

“Mrs. Palacios has demonstrated her commitment to public service and the cause of justice throughout her 24 years in the Commonwealth Judiciary,” said Chief Justice Miguel S. Demapan. “In her distinguished career, she has reflected qualities that we all strive for. We will certainly miss working with her.”

“On behalf of Demapan, Associate Justice Alexandro C. Castro, and Associate Justice John A. Manglona, the Judiciary applauds Palacios for her dedicated service and contribution to the people and government of the Commonwealth, and appreciates her untiring commitment to the maintenance of the rule of law and furtherance of justice for all,” said a Judiciary statement issued yesterday.

Palacios is the oldest child born to Jacinto Babauta Mendiola and Sylveria Benavente Mendiola.

She is married to David Sablan Palacios and their children are David Marlon, Davina Marla, Deana Sylveria, and Dean Jesse.

She is an alumni of Mount Carmel School (grades 1-9), Marianas High School (grades 10-11), Camden Rockport High School, Maine (grade 12), and University of Hawaii–Hilo, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in only three years.

She has been on the board of directors and treasurer of the American Red Cross–CNMI Chapter; treasurer, CNMI Labor Day Committee; treasurer, CNMI Liberation Day Committee; executive director, Northern Marianas Judiciary Historical Society; treasurer, Agricultural Fair; director, Saipan Swim Club; director and Treasurer, CNMI Amateur Sports Association. [B][I](PR)[/I][/B]