A part-time family court judge on Oahu has been appointed to a full-time position.

Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald appointed Kevin A. Souza to the District Family Court of the First Circuit on Thursday.

A news release from the Hawaii State Judiciary says Souza has been a part-time judge in the District Family Court on Oahu since February and has a private law practice specializing in criminal defense and civil litigation.

Souza’s appointment must still be confirmed by the Hawaii state Senate. He would serve a six-year term.