The Hawaii state Judiciary says a Hilo lawyer has been appointed as a family court judge on the Big Island.

Court officials said Wednesday that Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald appointed Henry Nakamoto as judge of Third Circuit Family Court.

Judiciary officials say Nakamoto has been a partner in a law firm since 1996. He specializes in family and real estate law as well as estate planning.

Nakamoto was picked among a group of at least six nominees put forward by the Judicial Selection Commission.

The appointment requires confirmation by the state Senate. If confirmed, Nakamoto would hold office for six years.