Man Charged with Attempted Murder

A Molokai man has been charged with attempted murder after he rammed into his ex-girlfriend’s vehicle in Kaunakakai on Jan. 7. The collision sent his vehicle through the fence and into a tree at Kaunakakai Elementary School. School was out for winter break at the time.

The 38-year-old man, Pakluke Lau, also known as Ula, was flown to Oahu to be treated for injuries, while the 35-year-old woman was taken to Molokai General Hospital and soon released.

On Jan. 25, Lau was arrested on charges of first-degree attempted murder, two counts of terroristic threatening in the first degree, two counts of violating an order for protection and reckless driving. He is being held on $123,000 bail, according to court records. The complaint, filed by the state’s deputy prosecuting attorney, states Lau intentionally engaged in conduct he intended to culminate in murder in the first degree.

Around 7:30 on the morning of Jan. 7, Lau’s ex-girlfriend was driving west on Kamehameha V Highway and saw Lau’s vehicle approaching her rapidly from behind. After hitting the woman’s vehicle, Lau’s vehicle ripped through the school fence and hit a tree in the playground.

Last summer, Lau was released in a pending case with 15 counts of violation of order for protection and one count of unauthorized entry into a dwelling, involving the same ex-girlfriend, according to court records.

Lau’s criminal record dates back more than 10 years and includes second degree assault, first-degree criminal trespassing, first degree burglary and multiple counts of criminal contempt of court.

Given Lau’s extensive criminal history, a strong defense is essential to navigating the complex charges he faces. A criminal defense lawyer plays a crucial role in reviewing the case’s details, identifying potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and formulating a strategy that aims for the best possible outcome.

With serious allegations such as unauthorized entry and violation of protection orders, securing experienced legal representation can significantly impact the case’s direction.

For those in need of skilled legal counsel, an Australian law firm specializing in criminal defense can offer expert advice and advocacy.

These firms understand the intricacies of both local and international law, providing clients with the expertise necessary to mount a robust defense against criminal charges.

In cases like Lau’s, where previous convictions may influence sentencing, a dedicated lawyer’s efforts can make a meaningful difference in the legal proceedings.

When facing criminal charges, the stakes are incredibly high — from potential incarceration to long-term consequences that can affect one’s career, reputation, and family life.

Criminal defense law is designed to protect the rights of the accused, ensuring that every individual receives a fair trial and that due process is followed.

A skilled defense attorney can scrutinize the evidence, identify procedural errors, and challenge unlawful conduct by law enforcement, building a strategic defense that upholds the principles of justice.

Those navigating serious allegations, Bryan Alfaro Law provides dedicated and experienced legal representation tailored to the unique circumstances of each case.

Whether dealing with charges of unauthorized entry, violation of protection orders, or other criminal offenses, their legal team takes a meticulous approach to constructing a defense.

They analyze every aspect of the case, from witness statements to forensic evidence, ensuring that no detail is overlooked in the pursuit of a favorable outcome for their clients.

As legal proceedings continue to evolve, the integration of digital trial spaces has transformed how cases are presented and managed.

From virtual courtrooms to digital evidence presentation, leveraging technology can streamline complex litigation, enhancing both accessibility and efficiency.

Attorneys and legal teams now rely on sophisticated tools to organize documents, present multimedia evidence, and facilitate remote testimonies, making it essential to have the right technical support.

Throughout every phase of litigation, BP Trial Tech Services delivers comprehensive consultation to ensure that exhibits and digital content are meticulously prepared for impactful courtroom presentations.

From pre-trial strategy to closing arguments, their expertise in digital trial management helps attorneys present evidence clearly and convincingly.