Seven members of a Hawaiian independence group calling itself Free Hawaii have refused to enter pleas to charges filed in the wake of a brief takeover of 'Iolani Palace.

The seven told Circuit Judge Derrick Chan yesterday that they don't believe the court has jurisdiction over them.

They also would not accept a court-appointed attorney, saying they have legal counsel in Montana who will represent them.

Chan ordered the seven to stay away from the palace and set their next court appearance for Oct. 16.

James Akahi, the leader of a group who also goes by the name Akahi Nui, is charged with second-degree burglary, as are his wife, Grace Akahi, Wayne Nunes, Waynette Nunes, Terry N. Kaahanui, Tanya K. Kaahanui and Vanessa Fimbres. The charge carries a maximum punishment of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

The takeover occurred Aug. 15, Admission Day, a holiday marking Hawaiian statehood in 1959.

The incident prompted state authorities to improve security and to tighten visitor rules at the palace.