General Information
Year founded:
1994
This is the year the firm (or its earliest predecessor entity) was founded.
Overview
Content is provided by the firm.
FIRM OVERVIEW Starn O’Toole Marcus & Fisher is a leader among Hawaii’s real estate and business law firms, recognized for its expertise in real estate law, commercial transactions and complex commercial litigation in Hawaii, the US mainland and internationally.
Firm transactional and litigation attorneys often join forces in complex commercial matters that require both business law and litigation experience. The firm’s intellectual power and mental strength and toughness generate winning strategies, strong negotiations and innovative settlements for clients. Above all, the firm’s attorneys have a passion for excellence and responsive client service, earning the firm an international reputation for extraordinary client results.
Starn O’Toole Marcus & Fisher has earned Martindale-Hubbell’s® highest AV Preeminent® rating, given by our legal peers for achieving the highest standards of professional ethics, excellence and legal ability. Our litigation attorneys and transactional team have been selected to the “Top 25”, Hawaii Super Lawyers® list in the practice areas of business litigation and real estate law. Firm attorneys have been selected to The Best Lawyers in America®, “Lawyers of the Year” in Honolulu list, in both transactional and litigation practice areas. As a firm, we have 45 "Lawyer of the Year" recognitions (2011-2025).
Our firm is ranked "Tier 1" in Hawaii in 23 specialties by US News & World Report-Best Lawyers in America® “Best Law Firms”.
The firm is Benchmark Litigation’s “Hawaii Litigation Firm of the Year” for 2020-2022 & 2024, and a "Highly Recommended" law firm since 2011.
Starn O’Toole Marcus & Fisher is a member of TerraLex and SCG Legal, two of the world’s largest networks of independent law firms.
A LITIGATION POWERHOUSE
Starn O’Toole Marcus & Fisher’s litigation powerhouse has extensive experience, including significant jury and non-jury trial work, in complex commercial litigation encompassing business, corporate, contract and accounting issues related to Hawaii real estate development, corporate ownership and management, the hotel and hospitality industry, environmental matters, construction claims, lender liability, class actions and personal injury matters.
Our respected team of litigators have trial expertise before State and Federal courts in Hawaii and the US mainland, including the US Supreme Court, and has served as litigation general counsel before courts in foreign jurisdictions.
When clients are faced with complex commercial issues concerning matters in Hawaii and beyond, the firm’s attorneys are amongst a handful of select “go-to” lawyers.
OUR TRIAL APPROACH & ATTORNEYS
Victory in the legal environment means triumph: economic satisfaction, a win-win agreement, or sometimes, just being proclaimed right.
The importance of the path to victory-strategies, players, and desired outcomes — make the selection of the legal trial team critical for success. The job is to design a road map that considers each twist and turn that may be presented. The experience and intellectual brainpower of the client’s trial attorneys often accounts for the outcome of litigation by crafting each strategic move on the battlefield along the way.
Starn O’Toole Marcus & Fisher’s litigation attorneys take the fight for every client as if it were their own battle. To be responsible and involved is a hallmark of the law firm, which is built on the power of its people.
The firm is Benchmark Litigation’s Hawaii Litigation Firm of the Year (2020-2022 & 2024) and a "Highly Recommended" law firm since 2010.
The firm’s Hawaii litigation attorneys are recognized by The Best Lawyers in America®, Chambers and Partners USA Directory of Leading Lawyers for Business, selected to Hawaii Super Lawyers® list, Benchmark Litigation, Benchmark Appellate, Benchmark Plaintiff, and Martindale-Hubbell®.
Starn O’Toole Marcus & Fisher is rated AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell’s® highest possible rating, given to us by our legal peers for achieving very high ethical standards and professional ability.
HAWAII REAL ESTATE ATTORNEYS, BUSINESS FOCUSED
Starn O’Toole Marcus & Fisher’s real estate and business law attorneys are known for sophisticated case analysis and innovative business solutions for complex matters. Our attorneys have significant experience in real estate development and transactions, hotels, hotel management agreements, corporate finance, international transactions, secured transactions, mergers and acquisitions, construction law and complex commercial matters, in Hawaii, US and internationally.
The firm’s impressive skill and experience in strategic case planning, ingenious solutions and powerful negotiations in all aspects of complex real estate transactions has opened many doors for domestic and international clients, and have helped many navigate Hawaii’s complex land use and permitting laws.
OUR TRANSACTIONAL APPROACH AND ATTORNEYS
Starn O’Toole Marcus & Fisher transactional attorneys have an innate talent for critical thinking through each complex commercial matter. What’s more, they excel in solving the pieces of a puzzle, examining the players, unraveling the details of agreements and handshake deals, to identify the keys that will give the client the clear advantage.
In today’s complex competitive environment, firm transactional attorneys shine when approaching the deal table. Strong, experienced and prepared for endless possible moves and counter-moves, firm attorneys drive for exceptional results for every client whether they are a family owned business or an international corporation.
Our transactional attorneys are recognized by The Best Lawyers in America®, Chambers and Partners USA Directory of Leading Lawyers for Business and selected to the Hawaii Super Lawyers® list.
All transactional Directors are rated AV Preeminent®, the highest rating possible given by Martindale-Hubbell®, a distinction given by our legal peers for achieving the highest standards for professional skill, ethics and integrity.
Firm News
January 5, 2023
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher Director Lindsay E. Orman Appointed to AIA Honolulu Board
November 23, 2022
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher Litigation Associate Kari K. Noborikawa
September 30, 2021
6 Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher Lawyers Selected to the 2022 Benchmark Litigation List
August 9, 2021
20 Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher Lawyers Selected to the 2022 Best Lawyers in America List and Ones to Watch List
August 6, 2021
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher Director Stephanie E.W. Thompson Presents "E-Discovery & Covid-19" Webinar
August 5, 2021
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher Attorney, Sara S.T. Strona Awarded Martindale-Hubbell's AV Preeminent Rating
May 20, 2021
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher Named Band 1 in Litigation and Real Estate Law by Chambers USA 2021 Guide
November 6, 2014
Law Firm Recognized by Benchmark Litigation
November 6, 2014
Ivan M. Lui-Kwan Honored
Rankings
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher, A Law Corporation is metro ranked in 32 practice areas. Best Law Firms rankings are based on a rigorous evaluation process.
Read how Best Law Firms ranks firmsMetro Rankings
Hawaii
Tier 1 for Administrative / Regulatory Law
Tier 1 for Appellate Practice
Tier 1 for Arbitration
Tier 1 for Bet-the-Company Litigation
Tier 1 for Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships)
Firm Leadership
Highlighted Client Comments
All client comments represent the opinions of the people who provided them. All potential clients are urged to remember that no two cases are ever completely alike and that the result in one case does not guarantee a similar result in another case.
Litigation - Trusts and Estates
My experiences with Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher have been limited to work, and my contact has been with Trevor Brown. In all instances, Trevor was the consummate legal professional - engaged (active listening, pertinent laser-focused questions, accurate concise recapitulation of facts and issues), knowledgeable (law and facts) and cordial. With Trevor, there is no wasted motion, words or time. He gets to the core of the matter quickly, while exhibiting what can only be described as a "good bedside manner".
Adrianne Yoshihara
– Chun Kerr LLLP
Real Estate Law
We use Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher for a broad variety of work in Hawaii, and they are a great business partner. They are very practical in their orientation and look to find efficient and effective solutions to thorny problems. They are incredibly well-versed in the law and also well-connected to key government agencies and officials.
Commercial Finance Law
We have been working with Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher over the last few years, and they have become our lead Hawaii legal partner in both commercial finance as well as real estate transactions. Their teams, led by Duane Fisher, Norman Cheng and Ken Marcus, have been outstanding to work with because of their in-depth expertise in complex type of deals. They are always extremely responsive, and we are impressed with their ability to bring their teams together to work so collaboratively with our Outrigger teams from finance to operations to project management besides our in-house legal group. We would highly recommend Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher for commercial finance, real estate transactions and general business dealings.
Avery Aoki
– Outrigger Hotels Hawaii
Litigation - Real Estate
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher and in particular, Terry O'Toole, the lead attorney in our matter, are exceptionally experienced and talented. We have worked with many litigation attorneys over the decades, and I can say without fear of contradiction that Terry O'Toole is the most insightful, creative and effective.
Real Estate Law
We have used Duane Fisher, at Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher, for several years. His real estate transactional expertise is unparalleled in Hawaii. Very strategic, very solution oriented. I cannot recommend him more strongly. As the managing partner in the firm, he oversees a group of lawyers who represent the very best in Hawaii legal practice.
Real Estate Law
Christina Ohira of Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is our AOAO attorney. We sometimes have more generalized questions than full legal issues. However, Christina is always willing to help us figure it out. She is very good at dealing with our management company too, which we really appreciate! Hands down, the best AOAO attorney this board has ever had.
Sheral Graham
– AOAO of Makakilo Hale II
Real Estate Law
We were referred to Sara Strona at Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher by our San Francisco law firm. Sara has handled a series of real estate transactions. These were not simple closings but complex transactions. She was extremely skilled, delivered work-product on a timely basis and was a pleasure to work with. Her fees were very fair and reasonable. Highly recommend Sara and Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher.
John Domingos
– Law Offices of John R. Domingos (on behalf of Robert G. Peirce)
Administrative / Regulatory Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher's work on our case has been excellent. The attorneys have been extremely responsive, communicating with us timely on litigation strategy, legal arguments, and other litigation aspects. Their legal briefing in our case is clear, concise, and extremely persuasive and well-researched.
Corporate Law
The deep bench of talent at Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is extraordinarily valuable to us.
Matthew Beall
– Hawaii Life Real Estate Services
Commercial Litigation
Andrew Lautenbach and Maile Miller of Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher made an amazing team. They were incredibly personable and let us know at every turn that we were important, and they were determined to fight for us. My business partner and I watched them regularly go the extra mile. Our lawsuit was complex, but they learned our business and did a great job of grasping the complexities. They were always clear on what our options were, the relative potential of each path we could take, and they never minced words on the likely results of the different actions. When money was an issue, we asked them to weigh the costs of different options, and they gave us their take on our best bets. They went after all the right documentation, asked all the right questions, and made a strong enough case for the other side to settle, and they succeeded. I would highly recommend Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher to anyone.
Elisabeth Swan
Real Estate Law
Norm Cheng and the team at Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher are spot-on when it comes to Real Estate Law in Hawaii. Amazingly responsive and always completely plugged into our local development community, with a firm understanding of what deals are being done, what issues are affecting our design and development community and how our team can help move projects forward.
Phil Camp
– Four C's Investments
Land Use and Zoning Law
In my 37+ year practicing as an in-house counsel within my industry with 21+ years as a Division General Counsel, I can wholeheartedly recommend Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher as one of the best I have ever worked with.
Mortgage Banking Foreclosure Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is highly professional, very responsive, jumps on a request and completes it immediately. Highest recommendation!
Lawrence Devine
– MMOH, LLC-Devine
Corporate Law
My attorneys at Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher are among those I would consider the top tier attorneys in downtown Honolulu. I trust them exclusively with our corporate and intellectual property legal needs.
Scott Cooley
– INDEVTECH INC
Commercial Litigation
I was once told by a lawyer who is also a friend to hire the best lawyer I could find if I ever was in a position to suffer serious consequences resulting from litigation. Terry O'Toole of Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher represented me in litigation that could have destroyed my business in the middle of the pandemic, and he successfully won on all of the significant claims.
Litigation - Real Estate
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is an outstanding firm, devoted to their clients interests even above their own interests. The level of analysis and expertise is impressive. They are always looking to find a way to move the clients interest forward.
Virendra NATH
– Individual Client
Corporate Law
Norman Cheng was our attorney at Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher. He listened to our needs carefully in order to understand our particular corporate issues in drafting a new operating agreement, high paid employee contracts, and commercial real estate contracts. He's professional, knowledgeable and charismatic in a very genuine way. I recommend him without reservation.
Corporate Law
Christina Ohira of Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is a great real estate attorney, and we have been using her for years. Her attention to detail is unmatched, and her willingness to go above and beyond to serve our clients is impeccable. We have referred her to all of our colleagues and clients that are interested in a real estate attorney to represent them. Her dedication to her clients while providing high quality and professional services is something of a rarity these days from real estate attorneys. Believe me, we've been on the other side with other real estate attorneys in Hawaii in the past that clients chose to work with, and I can tell you from first-hand experience that some of them were a handful and difficult to work with due to their work ethics and lack of experience, which translated into a very challenging transaction that could have been avoided if we worked with a great attorney like Christina Ohira. In conclusion, Christina Ohira is the best of the best when it comes to real estate attorneys out there, and my team and I will always continue to support her and refer her.
Jordan Chow
– Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties
Commercial Litigation
Over the last ten plus years, I have worked with numerous partners and lawyers at Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher in multiple legal situations, across both personnel and company related commercial litigation. While some of the cases took years, we successfully prevailed in all of them because of the depth of expertise and dedicated professionalism of the Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher team. I have worked with other firms in Hawaii, and there is no one better than Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher.
Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher are smart, experienced and professional lawyers. Couldn't ask for better representation.
Real Estate Law
The Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher team always responds to email or phone calls right away.
Real Estate Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is an excellent firm in the area of real estate. I highly recommend them.
Commercial Litigation
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher lawyers are very supportive, caring, responsible and responsive. Thank you!
Commercial Litigation
The Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher firm specifically Ms. Thompson are competent professionals who always have my company's best interests in mind. I am always informed when and included and feel our company is in good hands. What I appreciate and like about Ms. Thompson the ability to remain calm in crisis situations.
Government Relations Practice
The Starn O'Toole government relations practice is very plugged into the Honolulu and Hawaii scene and provides exceptional advice and project leadership.
Leisure and Hospitality Law
Ken Marcus at Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher, is extremely responsive and knowledgeable. We’ve worked with him on a wide diversity of projects.
Vann Avedisian
– Highgate Hotels
Appellate Practice
I have the privilege of working with two of Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher's lawyers Duane Fisher and Ivan Lui Kwan. They are a tribute to their profession and go beyond the call of duty with every interaction. Both are highly skilled, organized, and provide me excellent counsel. Any time that I have called, be it after hours weekends etc, I can count on an immediate response. I appreciate these two gentleman as true professionals of their craft and simply truly wonderful people.
Jerry Gibson,
Area Vice President and Managing Director
– Hilton Hotels Corporation
Commercial Litigation
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is the very best firm in town for commercial litigation. They handled two very huge commercial litigation cases for us and won both. They also handled two other cases and won that for us. This is an amazing firm and if you want positive results, I highly recommend them. They really care about all of their clients.
Sandra Au Fong,
Senior Vice President, Secretary
– Market City, Ltd.
Mortgage Banking Foreclosure Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher uses a unique combination of aggressive litigators and super sharp low key strategic thinkers.
Real Estate Law
Peter Starn of Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is endowed with the exceptional ability to be most creative in reaching solutions to difficult problems. He has the ability to, as a master chess player, think many steps forward, that, in turn, reduces the future risk that otherwise might occur in a variety of situations and problems.
With deep and extensive knowledge of both real estate law and real estate finance, Starn addresses the many challenges that must be addressed in consequential national and international transactions.
Andre Tatibouet
– Individual Client
Commercial Litigation
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher are top flight litigators.
Steve Colon
– Hunt Companies
Litigation - Real Estate
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher are trusted advisors and top flight litigators. They have unique strategic approaches to solving client problems.
Steve Colon
– Hunt Companies
Real Estate Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher has been our primary real estate counsel in Hawaii for the past several years and has provided great service with both loan closings and numerous land sale transactions. They are responsive and helpful, particularly given the nuances of doing business in Hawaii.
Mitchell Brown,
Chief Development Officer
– Kisco Senior Living, LLC
Real Estate Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher continues to offer a timely response to our legal matters. We do not hesitate to contact them with questions knowing that that they will respond that day or the next.
We have had some very complex issues arise, and they are always able to help us understand them, so that we feel comfortable with the decisions that need to be made.
Cindy Brown
Real Estate Law
Norman Cheng of Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is an expert in navigating transaction and contract issues for real estate matters.
Trevor Benn
– Benn Pacific Group Inc.
Leisure and Hospitality Law
Ken Marcus of Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher has been a tremendous resource for us in all our Hawaiian hotel acquisitions. His deep knowledge of the market and local law has been indispensable to Highgate.
Real Estate Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher attorneys are very commercial mindset with an excellent style communicating a thorough understanding without being overly complicated.
Mergers and Acquisitions Law
We have worked on mutual clients, as well as our own acquisitions and real estate transactions. The lawyers at
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher have been insightful, responsive, and business savvy.
Kent Tsukamoto
– Accuity, LLP
Administrative / Regulatory Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is well-informed, connected, and resourceful in the administrative and regulatory environment.
Kent Tsukamoto
– Accuity, LLP
Real Estate Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher attorneys are absolutely outstanding. They have great strategy and are always very calm under fire. They are imaginative at finding solutions to complex problems and have amazing attention to the smallest detail. In my many decades of working with many law firms in the state, I can honestly say that none of them rival the Starn law firm in the overall quality of their work product and professionalism.
Andre Tatibouet
– Individual Client
Commercial Litigation
I have worked with many attorneys and legal firms, and Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is one of the best. They were not my regular attorneys but were referred to me due to a conflict of interest. I was absolutely impressed and satisfied with the firm, the employees, the attorneys and the quality of their services and knowledge.
Peter Savio
– Hawaiian Island Homes Ltd
Corporate Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is stellar and thoughtful problem solvers.
Fred Noa
Litigation - Real Estate
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is simply the best law firm that I have worked with.
Virendra NATH
– Individual Client
Administrative / Regulatory Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher attorneys are very professional, highly responsive with clear concise advice.
Ted Middleton
– Hilton Hotels Corporation
Real Estate Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher are very knowledgeable in the area of real estate law.
Ted Middleton
– Hilton Hotels Corporation
Leisure and Hospitality Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is very knowledgeable in negotiating hospitality management agreements and franchise agreements.
Ted Middleton
– Hilton Hotels Corporation
Mergers and Acquisitions Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher are very savvy counsel for real estate acquisitions.
Ted Middleton
– Hilton Hotels Corporation
Land Use and Zoning Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher has helped us with numerous land use and zoning situations. Their advice has helped us navigate the complex regulatory environment in Hawaii.
Ted Middleton
– Hilton Hotels Corporation
Real Estate Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is a firm (and most importantly partner, Duane Fisher) I've used both personally and professionally for over 13 years and I couldn't ever think of using another firm. Duane is knowledgeable, creative, responsive and a great problem solver. Rates are fair for the product delivered and I really couldn't be happier. I can't say the same for many other firms I've used for specialty work over the years. I received top notch service from Duane and any other colleagues I've ever worked with. I recommend them without hesitation.
William Jarvis
– Coral Wireless, LLC (dba Mobi PCS)
Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships)
I recommended Duane Fisher of Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher to a client recently and told the client that Duane is really good. The client called me back a few weeks later and said "Duane Fisher isn't good he's "crazy good."
Joe Haas
– Cushman Wakefield
Government Relations Practice
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is the best firm I’ve had the pleasure of working with over a 38 year career. To a person, they are all professional, caring, effective and ethical.
William Jarvis
– Coral Wireless, LLC (dba Mobi PCS)
Real Estate Law
The real estate team at Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher are true professionals. They are very knowledgeable on matters of Hawaiian law, and take a practical business approach to negotiations and problem-solving. They possess excellent research, drafting and negotiating skills. The presence of a government relations capability at the firm is a definite plus. I have worked with the firm for many years and look forward to many more.
Commercial Litigation
Stephanie and Trevor, at Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher, helped us through a very difficult case with patience, compassion and diligence. Their attentiveness and candor got us the best possible outcome. I highly recommend!
Real Estate Law
The attorneys at Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher have proved to be extremely efficient and responsive an while they are a top rate firm, their efficiency in work keeps costs reasonable. I enjoy and appreciate working with them, especially Ken Marcus.
Commercial Litigation
When we got into a litigation matter in Hawaii, we got a reference to Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher. They not only exceed in their expertise, they understand the culture and politics of the area as well. Stephanie Thompson and the staff in particular showed impeccable integrity. I usually refrain from participating in these types of surveys, but I wanted to share how great this firm is.
Leisure and Hospitality Law
I never cease to be surprised at the skills Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher brings in solving my legal issues. They are well connected and well regarded around town.
Government Relations Practice
Doug Chin, at Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher, has been a wonderful partner in our government relations efforts. He is a consummate professional and well respected in our community, so he is able to open many doors for us. We appreciate our partnership with Doug and with Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher.
Commercial Litigation
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is one of the best most competent firms and attorneys I have ever used.
Peter Savio
– Hawaiian Island Homes Ltd
Corporate Law
I utilize Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher for a large number of my clients and transactions based on their competency, problem solving, and the stellar results achieved.
Fred Noa
Litigation - Real Estate
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is first rate. The level of professionalism is extraordinary, and the competence is off the charts. They can take complex matters, break them down, and address each piece carefully and completely. Their negotiating ability with opposing counsel was superb; professional, courteous, and firm. They were able therefore, to reach good settlements and serve us very well while maintaining fine relationships with opposing counsel. This is a confident firm, with confidence based on achievement.
Virendra NATH
– Individual Client
Commercial Litigation
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher has strong partners and associates in both real estate and commercial litigation. They are well respected by peers and local judges.
William Meheula
– Sullivan Meheula Lee
Commercial Litigation
Starn O'Toole operates with a high degree of integrity, professionalism and sensitivity to client's needs.
Calvin Takara,
Associate Pastor
– Kaimuki Christian Church
Commercial Litigation
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher had been referred to me by my attorney due to a conflict of interest which stopped my corporate and personal attorney from representing me. Trevor Brown had worked for that firm years ago and had worked on my account back then. It was amazing at how he had grown and matured and I can honestly say he is one of the most thorough and competent attorneys I have ever worked with.
Peter Savio
– Hawaiian Island Homes Ltd
Commercial Litigation
Starn O'Toole is one of the top commercial litigation law firms in the State of Hawaii. We had four major law suits and won everyone one of them; I highly recommend this law firm without hesitation and would always use this firm.
Sandra Au Fong,
Senior Vice President, Secretary
– Market City, Ltd.
Real Estate Law
Our condo association moved to Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher after decades with another firm upon a referral recommendation. At the time, I was a fairly new board president and found that our decades long relationship with our prior counsel was by far not doing us any favors, especially regarding collections. We were assigned to Christina Ohira, who promptly recommended Mark McKellar for our sorely needed collections activities. As well, Christina helped us navigate the termination of a long-time site manager of whom it was discovered was embezzling association funds and probably had been for decades. Christina was of great assistance to us in dealing with a board member who had become abusive to our board, our new site manager and his neighbor as well as myself, both directly and indirectly through social media and letters to elected officials of Hawaii. She helped us put together a "response" plan for when this now "non-board member" complains about any of the aforementioned people, places or things! She also helped us deal with a homeowner whose unit was damaged by work done by a contractor hired by the board, which they refused to cover. I seriously cannot say enough good things about Christina and, by association, Mark McKellar. Our association is so much better off than we were!
Commercial Litigation
Maile Miller and Kukui Claydon of Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher provided outstanding support as local counsel for a high-stakes and high profile litigation. Their work was of the highest caliber in all ways, legally, strategically and practically. They were cost-conscious and efficient. I give them my highest recommendations.
Commercial Litigation
I enjoyed working with Doug and John. Amazing integrity, top notch service and very quick responses. If needed, I would work with both of them in the future and would definitely refer them to anyone needing legal advice and counsel. The service was genuine and personable, not just transactional. Thank you Doug and John.
Rolly Ganir
– Individual Client
Litigation - Real Estate
We worked with the team at Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher in a complex litigation and found them to be thorough and creative, driving towards the goal with focus. There was little or no wasted effort on side issues, and there were many, many side issues which could have derailed the efforts and wasted time and energy. The team was thoroughly professional, always well-prepared, civil and able to maintain cordial relations with a determined adversary. The conclusion of the litigation was entirely satisfactory to us.
Real Estate Law
I am immensely satisfied with Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher and with partner Duane Fisher in particular. Duane's intelligence, reliability and creativity lead to solutions that are incredibly valuable to me as a business leader and has led to a relationship of over 15 years and counting. I recommend Duane Fisher without a hint of reservation.
Real Estate Law
The Starn Team has always been on point and super responsive when assisting with our RE legal issues. In one instance specifically, their team was able to reach a resolve and pivot the direction of a case within hours of taking over the project that had been stalled for months. Within weeks, we had a settlement that saved everyone countless hours and frustration.
Phil Camp
– Four C's Investments
Litigation - Trusts and Estates
Cannot say enough about how much heart, ethics, talent and skill Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher and Trevor Brown have!
Real Estate Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is a great firm, and I thoroughly enjoy working with the firm's lawyers. The lawyers are incredibly responsive, easy to work with and extremely knowledgeable. The lawyers are well-connected within the local community and provide great insights into the practical realities of the Hawaii legal and governmental environment and are excellent at obtaining reasonable outcomes on an expeditious basis. They are not afraid of thorny issues. Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is a highly valued business partner.
Corporate Law
Having used several attorneys at the firm, I've been impressed with their breadth of expertise. I've mainly worked with Trevor Brown, and I'm continually impressed by his integrity and deep understanding of nuanced legal issues. I highly recommend both Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher, as well as Trevor Brown individually.
Ian Bigelow
– INDIVIDUAL CLIENT
Commercial Litigation
We had four litigation cases handled by Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher, of which two were substantially major business cases, and this firm and our lead attorney Terry O'Toole were outstanding and won every case for us. We also worked with Judith Pavey in the law firm, and she is another very qualified and outstanding attorney to work with. We highly recommend using this law firm and highly recommend these attorneys.
Project Finance Law
Starn O’Toole Marcus & Fisher is such a competent and compassionate law firm. I would highly recommend this law firm.
Commercial Litigation
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is the best firm for commercial litigation. We highly recommend them and know from first-hand experience in two major litigation cases that they can get the job done and win. We worked with Terry O'Toole, and he is the best. We used him for two major commercial litigation cases and several other smaller cases and won each time. I would use only this firm for any litigation matters. We highly recommend them and have the highest regard for Terry O'Toole. We have also worked with Judith Pavey, another outstanding attorney at the firm. She gets the job done.
Sandra Au Fong,
Senior Vice President, Secretary
– Market City, Ltd.
Litigation - Real Estate
We can't say enough positive things about Terry O'Toole, Judy Pavy, and Andrew Lautenbach! All three have been consummate professionals, patiently walking us through very complicated legal issues. We know they are passionate about the case; however, more importantly we can tell they care about our family and our long term well-being. They take the time to listen to our perspectives and ideas with regard to key decisions on cases. We would gladly provide our very highest endorsement for Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher.
Krishna Narayan
Real Estate Law
Starn O'Toole clearly stands out above the rest in what they do.
Commercial Litigation
My experience with Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher has been very satisfying for several reasons: 1) they have high ethical standards; 2) they network with a wide range of highly regarded attorneys and other professionals; 3) they are responsive and communicate well; 4) they manage legal fees well.
Calvin Takara,
Associate Pastor
– Kaimuki Christian Church
Commercial Litigation
The best attorneys are in this firm. They are sensitive to the client's needs, most professional and won all of my litigation cases. I would highly recommend this law firm.
Litigation - Real Estate
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher has excellent lawyers. They are great advisors, and are very professional and polished.
Steve Colon
– Hunt Companies
Administrative / Regulatory Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is an excellent and responsive firm that understands business needs and issues.
Kent Tsukamoto
– Accuity, LLP
Mergers and Acquisitions Law
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher is an excellent, responsive firm that understands business needs and issues.
Kent Tsukamoto
– Accuity, LLP
Rankings
Regional Rankings
Hawaii
Tier 1 for Administrative / Regulatory Law
Tier 1 for Appellate Practice
Tier 1 for Arbitration
Tier 1 for Bet-the-Company Litigation
Tier 1 for Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships)
Tier 1 for Civil Rights Law
Tier 1 for Commercial Finance Law
Tier 1 for Commercial Litigation
Tier 1 for Commercial Transactions / UCC Law
Tier 1 for Construction Law
Tier 1 for Corporate Law
Tier 1 for Government Relations Practice
Tier 1 for Land Use and Zoning Law
Tier 1 for Legal Malpractice Law - Defendants
Tier 1 for Leisure and Hospitality Law
Tier 1 for Litigation - Banking and Finance
Tier 1 for Litigation - Construction
Tier 1 for Litigation - Land Use and Zoning
Tier 1 for Litigation - Real Estate
Tier 1 for Litigation - Trusts and Estates
Tier 1 for Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions - Plaintiffs
Tier 1 for Medical Malpractice Law - Plaintiffs
Tier 1 for Mortgage Banking Foreclosure Law
Tier 1 for Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs
Tier 1 for Real Estate Law
Tier 2 for Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law
Tier 2 for Litigation - Securities
Tier 2 for Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions - Defendants
Tier 2 for Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs
Tier 3 for Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law
Tier 3 for Litigation - Environmental
Tier 3 for Mergers and Acquisitions Law
Practice Areas
The below are areas of legal specialty volunteered by the firm and do not designate a specialty in which a Best Law Firms ranking is held.
- Administrative / Regulatory Law
- Appellate Practice
- Arbitration
- Bet-the-Company Litigation
- Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships)
- Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law
- Commercial Finance Law
- Commercial Litigation
- Commercial Transactions / UCC Law
- Construction Law
- Corporate Law
- Electronic Discovery and Information Management Law
- Government Relations Practice
- Land Use and Zoning Law
- Leisure and Hospitality Law
- Litigation - Banking and Finance
- Litigation - Construction
- Litigation - Environmental
- Litigation - Insurance
- Litigation - Intellectual Property
- Litigation - Mergers and Acquisitions
- Litigation - Real Estate
- Litigation - Securities
- Litigation - Trusts and Estates
- Medical Malpractice Law - Plaintiffs
- Mergers and Acquisitions Law
- Mortgage Banking Foreclosure Law
- Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs
- Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs
- Qui Tam Law
- Real Estate Law
Individuals Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America®
Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher, A Law Corporation has 15 lawyers recognized for individual performance in the 2025 edition of The Best Lawyers in
America®.
By receiving this Best Lawyers recognition from their peers for their professional excellence, these lawyers made Starn O'Toole Marcus & Fisher, A Law Corporation eligible for evaluation for Best Law Firms rankings.
For almost two decades, Best Lawyers has awarded these singular accolades, making them the foundation of our Best Law Firms awards.
Read more about our Best Lawyers process here.
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Client Comments
All client comments represent the opinions of the people who provided them. All potential clients are urged to remember that no two cases are ever completely alike and that the result in one case does not guarantee a similar result in another case.
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Demographics
Partners
Male:
9
Female:
4
Asian:
2
White / Caucasian:
11
Multi-Racial:
1
LGBTQIA+:
1
Of Counsel (but not partners)
Male:
1
Female:
1
Asian:
1
White / Caucasian:
1
Associates
Male:
3
Female:
5
Asian:
2
White / Caucasian:
3
Multi-Racial:
5
Other Lawyers
Female:
1
White / Caucasian:
1
Attorney Management / Department Heads
Male:
3
Asian:
1
White / Caucasian:
2
Paralegals
Male:
1
Female:
3
Asian:
3
White / Caucasian:
1
Multi-Racial:
2
Non-Legal Employees
Male:
1
Female:
9
Asian:
2
White / Caucasian:
6
Multi-Racial:
2
Awards
Awards are self-reported by firms and are not verified by the Best Law Firms rankings.
- Best Law Firms, 2010-2023
- Benchmark Litigation, Hawaii Litigation Law Firm of the Year 2020-2022.
- Chambers & Partners USA Directory-Tier 1, Litigation: General Commercial
- Chambers & Partners USA Directory, Tier 2, Real Estate Law
- Chambers & Partners USA Directory, Tier 2, Corporate/Commercial Law
- Chambers and Partners, High Net Worth Guide-Tier 1, Private Wealth law
- Benchmark Litigation-Highly Recommended Firm
- Benchmark Appellate-Highly Recommended Firm
- Martindale-Hubbell, AV Preeminent
Main Location
Honolulu,
HI
733 Bishop Street, Suite 1900
Honolulu, HI 96813
United States
808-537-6100
Call our Honolulu, HI location at 808-537-6100
Get Directions
Get directions to our Honolulu, HI location
Management and Personnel
Managing Director
Norman H.Y. Cheng
Litigation Director
Terence J. O'Toole
Marketing Director
Kirsten Fujitani