By: L.N. Reklai
Koror, Palau — President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. has nominated Tamara Hutzler for appointment as Special Prosecutor of Palau, subject to Senate confirmation, under 2 PNC § 502. If confirmed, Hutzler will serve a five-year term as a special prosecutor, no longer serving the temporary position of interim special prosecutor.
Hutzler, a graduate of Bowling Green State University and Vermont Law School, has lived and practiced law in Palau since 2011. She initially served in the Attorney General’s Office for two years before establishing her own law practice, representing clients in criminal defense, land and customary title disputes, tort litigation, and corporate law. Her deep familiarity with Palau’s legal system is seen as a significant advantage over an off-island hire, President Whipps noted.
Her career also includes military service in the United States Air Force, where she attained the rank of Captain and gained experience in both civil and criminal law. Hutzler handled criminal investigations, litigated court-martial cases, and worked in diverse roles, including dealing with government spending, procurement law, and other complex legal matters. Her military background is considered highly relevant to the role of Special Prosecutor.
In addition to her legal career, Hutzler has held various managerial roles, including owning a fly-fishing outfitter and guide business, managing a non-profit wildlife refuge, and overseeing a multimillion-dollar private estate. These experiences have prepared her for the administrative responsibilities required of the Special Prosecutor, such as office management, budget oversight, and staff supervision.
The Office of Special Prosecutor has been vacant since July of 2023 and was recently filled in April 2024 when Attorney General Ernestine Rengiil appointed her the Interim Special Prosecutor according to the law.
President Whipps emphasized the urgency of filling the long-vacant position of Special Prosecutor, a delay attributed to the comparatively low salary offered in the past. The recent decision by the Olbiil Era Kelulau to raise the salary has enabled the government to attract a candidate of Hutzler’s caliber. He urged the Senate to consider her nomination promptly, citing her qualifications and dedication to upholding the law.
The Senate will now deliberate on Hutzler’s nomination, which has the potential to shape the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s future operations.