Journal Attorney – Fainu’ulelei Falefatu Ala’ilima-Utu was born and raised in American Samoa. Excelling academically from a young age, he graduated from high school in California at 15 and continued his education at the American Samoa Community College, graduating as class Valedictorian in 1984. After earning his A.A. degree, he pursued further studies in the mainland U.S., aiming to return and serve his people. He received his B.A. in Political Science from UCLA in 1986 and his Juris Doctor degree from UCLA School of Law in 1989. In 1990, Fainu’ulelei was admitted to practice law in Hawaii and American Samoa.
Upon returning home in 1990, Fainu’ulelei held several prestigious positions over the next 30 years. He worked as an assistant attorney general for the Department of Legal Affairs for over 12 years and then served as legal counsel for the Development Bank of American Samoa for 11 years. In 2006, he was appointed commissioner for the American Samoa Future Political Status Study Commission, and in 2010, he served as chief legal counsel for the American Samoa Constitutional Convention. He also served as executive director of the American Samoa Legal Aid Office for five years and held roles as president of the American Samoa Bar Association and chairman of the Board of Higher Education.
On January 3, 2021, governor-elect Lemanu P.S. Mauga appointed Fainu’ulelei as the attorney general for American Samoa, and he was unanimously confirmed by both chambers of the Fono. He is a lay preacher in the Methodist Church and holds chiefly titles in both American Samoa and Samoa. He is married and has four children.
Fainu’ulelei Falefatu Ala’ilima-Utu Address, Phone and Website:
American Samoa Gov’t, Exec. Ofc. Bldg
Utulei
Territory of American Samoa, Pago Pago, AS 96799
(684) 633-4163
Website
Fainu’ulelei Falefatu Ala’ilima-Utu is the current Attorney General of American Samoa. With extensive experience and knowledge in law, Ala’ilima-Utu has been dedicated to upholding justice and protecting the rights of the people of American Samoa. He has played a crucial role in prosecuting criminal cases, handling civil litigation, and providing legal counsel to government agencies.
Ala’ilima-Utu is known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and commitment to enforcing the law. Throughout his career, he has focused on promoting transparency and accountability within the legal system, ensuring that justice is served fairly and efficiently. He has also been actively involved in community outreach and legal education programs, aiming to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources to navigate the legal system.
As the Attorney General of American Samoa, Ala’ilima-Utu has been instrumental in addressing key legal issues and challenges facing the territory. He continues to work tirelessly to uphold the rule of law, protect the rights of citizens, and promote a just society for all residents of American Samoa. His dedication and leadership have earned him respect and admiration from colleagues, clients, and the community at large.