Business Organizations and Activities, Employment Compliance, Immigration, Liquor and Administrative Licensing
Newton J. Chu is a Director of the Hawaii Island office for Torkildson Katz, A Law Corporation. His practice includes general corporate law, employment law, administrative licensing and immigration law on all islands. Mr. Chu's clients include retailers, resorts, restaurants, scientific institutions, private schools, and non-profit organizations.
Throughout his career, Mr. Chu has received accolades for his meticulous attention to detail and effective negotiating skills on behalf of clients. A fellow attorney praised Chu on LinkedIn for being "a first rate lawyer." Mr. Chu also received an "excellent rating" from Martindale-Hubbel, as well as a five-star rating on the website for “business law” and “immigration and naturalization” law.
Many businesses and corporations in particular rely on Mr. Chu's knowledge and experience when drafting or revising a legally-binding business agreement, or when they need prompt assistance on employment and licensing issues throughout the state.
In addition to his work at the firm, Mr. Chu frequently serves as a lecturer on a variety of legal topics involving employment and immigration law. He has also authored or co-authored several handbooks related to similar legal matters. Mr. Chu is an active member of the community, serving on the board of directors and in other executive positions for several organizations throughout Hawaii.
Recognition/Distinctions
Mr. Chu is a frequent lecturer on various topics concerning immigration and employment law. He has spoken nationally on behalf of the American Immigration Lawyers Association ("AILA"), and is past-Chair of the Hawaii Chapter of AILA. He co-authored "Employment Verification Systems- Where are We and Where are We Going," Immigration & Nationality Law Handbook 2006-07 Edition, AILA, and "Is Your Event Secure? Immigration Options for Artists and Entertainers," AILA 2014. He is a founding member of the Alliance of Alcohol Industry Attorneys and Consultants ("AAIAC").
Community Involvement
He is Past-President and current Director of the Hawaii Island Chamber of Commerce, Past-President of the Rotary Club of Hilo and Past-President of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Big Island Chapter. He is currently a Director of the Aloha Council Boy Scouts of America, Director of the Hilo High School Foundation, member of the Alliance of Alcohol Industry Attorneys and Consultants ("AAIAC"), and associate member of the National Association of Licensing and Compliance Professionals ("NALCP").
Education
- J.D., 1980, Antioch School of Law
- B.A., 1977, University of Hawaii, Manoa
- Honors: Lee-shao Chang Award for Excellence in Chinese Studies, 1976
Admitted to Practice
- Hawaii State Bar, 1995
- United States District Court, District of Hawaii, 1995
- California State Bar (inactive)