Small claims cases may be heard by any Judge of the Superior Court of Guam. However, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Guam may nominate one (1) or more Small Claims Referees from among the members of the Guam Bar Association, with the approval of the Judicial Council. Referees shall hear small claims cases pursuant to court rules, and shall have the power of a Superior Court Judge in respect to such small claims matters. Such appointments for Referees shall be for one (1) year or less. The Judicial Council may reappoint incumbent Referees for additional terms of one (1) year or less. Referees may be disqualified from hearing a matter in the same manner as a Judge of the Superior Court may be disqualified.

SOURCE: Amended by P.L. 27-031:14 (Oct. 31, 2003).

2015 NOTE: Pursuant to an amendment to § 22A(b)(2) of the Organic Act of Guam by Pub. L. 108-378:1(b) (Oct. 30, 2004), references to “”Presiding Judge”” have been changed to “”Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Guam.”” See 48 U.S.C. § 1424-1(b)(2).