Former Hawaii Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona will leave his administrative position at Saint Louis School to return to private law practice.

Aiona served as executive vice president for development and recruiting since January 2011. His last day is April 30. He will offer private mediation and arbitration services with a focus in family law in his private practice, JRA Inc.

On May 1, Aiona will also join a distinguished panel of former judges and legal experts at Dispute Prevention & Resolution Inc. as an arbitrator. According to DPR’s website Opens in a new tab, the firm has provided dispute resolution services to Hawaii’s legal business, construction, insurance, medical and judicial communities since 1995.

Aiona, a 1973 Saint Louis graduate, said his administrative role at the Roman Catholic boys school was a great experience but provided minimal flexibility to assist with many legal cases. He also plans to keep his options open concerning public service.

Aiona, who lost to Neil Abercrombie in the 2010 governor’s election, said he is not ruling out the 2014 gubernatorial race. "That’s something I would consider when the time is right. The time is not quite right — right now," he said.

"For me, it’s always been about public service. That’s first and foremost," he added.

Aiona served as Hawaii’s lieutenant governor from 2002 through 2010. He previously worked as a city deputy prosecutor and family court judge. Aiona spearheaded and was the first to lead the Hawaii Drug Court Program.

Saint Louis School President Walter Kirimitsu said Aiona has greatly contributed to the school and played a large role in building enrollment. In the past school year, enrollment increased 15 percent. For the upcoming 2012-2013 school year, applications for admission increased 25 percent. He also led the school’s efforts in fundraising and marketing.

"He’s done a great job in a short time," said Kirimitsu. "We’re very grateful for the service that he gave in the past year and a half. He did an outstanding job."

Kirimitsu added: "We all learned a lot from him. We wish him the very best."