17th Circuit Judges Attend Lanterns of Light Event

All Posts in "Court Updates"

17th Circuit Judges Attend Lanterns of Light Event

Judges from the 17th Judicial Circuit attended the Lanterns of Light event at the Design Center of the Americas (DCOTA) in Dania Beach, showing their support for an important cause.

The event supported efforts to provide free civil legal representation and advocacy to low-income Broward County residents, veterans and children.

Attendees included Judges Jeffrey R. Levenson, Peter Holden, John B. Bowman and Lorena V. Mastrarrigo, along with Fourth District Court of Appeal Judge Jonathan D. Lott.

by Sallie James — November 4, 2026 in Announcements

Today is Election Day!

Voting is your right and a hallmark of our democracy. It’s an opportunity to make your voice heard and take part in shaping our communities and our future.

If you’re heading to the polls today, remember to vote at your assigned polling place and bring a valid photo ID. Polls are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Every ballot counts. Exercise your right to vote!

by Sallie James — November 3, 2026 in Announcements

Judge Olga Levine Receives Florida Jurist Award

Judicial excellence was recognized at the Florida Jurist event, held at St. Thomas University College of Law, where the Broward County Bar Association and Broward County Hispanic Bar Association, along with several VBA partners, presented the Jurist Award to Judge Olga Levine.

A fellow Cuban-American and Gator, Judge Levine was celebrated for her contributions to the judiciary.

Thank you to Broward Bar CEO Braulio Rosa, Aron J. Gibson and co-presenter Elisabeth Rodriguez for helping make the event possible. Special thanks to Dean Tarlika Nunez-Navarro for graciously hosting the event and providing the venue.

The event brought together judges from across Florida to recognize excellence on the bench.

by Sallie James — November 2, 2026 in Announcements

Court Administration Employees Show Off Creativity!

Court employees showed off their creativity this week in a pumpkin painting contest that yielded some incredibly original creations. The activity was part of an Employee Appreciation event that also included some gourmet popcorn. It was a great way to take a short break, network with coworkers and admire each others’ painting skills, just in time for Halloween!

by Sallie James — October 31, 2026 in Announcements

Halloween Fun Brings Courthouse Employees Together

The “Pumpkin Patch and Popcorn Bash” was a hit! Employees from Court Administration showed off their creative sides with some spectacularly decorated pumpkins featuring everything from a Day of the Dead design and frosted doughnuts to the beloved Snoopy!

It was a fun afternoon break filled with gourmet popcorn, a little “cider” and some friendly competition as employees voted for their favorite pumpkin.

First place: Paulette Melendez-Reyes of Court Reporting took home the $25 gift card with her frightfully fantastic Little Shop of Horrors pumpkin!

Runner-up: Farzana Adalsha, also of Court Reporting, impressed everyone with her elaborate Snoopy creation, complete with a gourd for a head!

A big thank-you to Trial Court Administrator Joe D’Amico for bringing everyone together for a fun afternoon of creativity, treats and camaraderie. Sometimes, a little pumpkin-themed fun is just what you need to break up the workday! Happy Halloween!

by Sallie James — October 29, 2026 in Announcements

The Bear Necessities Bring Smiles

Two judges, a general magistrate and staffers from the non-profit Voices for Children of Broward County came together to stuff plush bears, monkeys and even a panther in preparation for National Adoption Day on November 21!

Participating in the stuffing session were Judge Hope Tieman Bristol, Judge Stacey Schulman and General Magistrate Hilary Creary.

The project is a collaboration between the 17th Judicial Circuit and Voices for Children of Broward County, a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring that children who have experienced abuse, neglect or abandonment have access to resources and programs that address their health, educational and social needs.

Thank you to everyone who helped fill these furry friends with love and bring a little extra joy to children in our community!

by Sallie James — October 26, 2026 in Announcements