Judge Frink Featured Speaker at National Legal Conference

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Judge Frink Featured Speaker at National Legal Conference

Judge Keathan B. Frink attended the American Bar Association Section of Litigation’s Annual Conference, held April 22–24, 2026, in Boston, Massachusetts. Serving as a Managing Director for the 2025–2026 Bar Year, Judge Frink joined leading litigators, professors, and judges from across the nation for high-level CLE programs, networking, and legal collaboration.

Judge Frink also spoke on the panel, The Role of State Courts in Protecting the Rule of Law, alongside Alabama Supreme Court Justice Greg Cook, Massachusetts Chief Justice Kimberly Budd, and New Mexico Supreme Court Justice Briana Zamora. We are so fortunate to have such great representation from the 17th Judicial Circuit! #17thjudteam

by Sallie James — April 30, 2026 in Announcements

Take Your Child to Work Day Courthouse Style

Nearly 70 children joined us for Take Your Child to Work Day at the Broward County Courthouse, enjoying a day packed with hands-on learning and fun.

From participating in a mock trial to tackling a tricky math game and sharpening their observation skills with a wild video challenge, the students got an inside look at how the courthouse works. They also met several judges and didn’t hesitate to ask plenty of thoughtful questions about the judiciary.

The excitement continued with therapy dog visits — including a goldendoodle and a golden retriever — a chance to explore a Broward Sheriff’s Office SWAT truck, and a loud, high-energy Jeopardy!-style game that had everyone cheering as students competed against one another.

It was a lively, memorable day that gave these young visitors a meaningful glimpse into the justice system. Each child also left with a certificate of participation and a Pocket Constitution to remember their day. Many thanks to all the judges and staff that made this special day such a success! #17thjudteam

by Sallie James — April 23, 2026 in Announcements

New FCS Program Draws Strong Interest from Family Law Attorneys

Approximately 15 family law attorneys attended Wednesday’s Broward Bar Brown Bag Lunch in Courtroom 9165 to learn about the new Family Court Services (FCS) program and the range of services it offers. The discussion covered how referrals to outside agencies work, the role insurance plays in securing care, and what attorneys can expect when cases are referred to FCS.

Judge Lauren M. Alperstein led the session, joined by FCS Manager Diane St. Amand-Scott, Investigator Andres Gironza, Navigator Ahnia Smith, and Administrative Assistant Guilia D’Agostino. Attendees asked thoughtful questions about how the program operates and what costs may be involved.

Launched in January, the program was created to improve conflict resolution and provide support services to families.

by Sallie James — April 22, 2026 in Announcements

17th Circuit Team Joins Statewide Effort to Strengthen Families

A large contingent of employees from the 17th Judicial Circuit attended Florida’s Joint Dependency Drug Court & Early Childhood Court All-Sites Meeting, joining multidisciplinary teams from across the state for a powerful and inspiring gathering.

Hosted by the Office of Family Courts, the 2026 All-Sites Meeting centered on the theme “Strengthening Bonds, Restoring Hope: Creating Safe Pathways to Resilient Futures.” The event reflected a shared commitment to supporting families, fostering healing, and building systems that promote long-term stability and well-being.

Held April 14–16, 2026, at the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, the conference united professionals from both Dependency Drug Courts (DDC) and Early Childhood Courts (ECC) to collaborate, learn, and strengthen their impact.

A highlight of the event was a panel discussion facilitated by Judge Hope Tieman Bristol, featuring parents who shared their lived experiences navigating DDC and ECC – offering powerful insight into the real-life impact of these programs.

Thank you to all who continue to make a difference in the lives of Florida’s children and families involved in the dependency court system.

by Sallie James — April 21, 2026 in Announcements

Judge Carbuccia Administers Oath at Attorney Induction Ceremony

Judge Elaine A. Carbuccia had the honor of attending St. Thomas University’s Attorney Induction Ceremony on April 16, 2026, where she proudly administered the oath to former law students who successfully passed the February Florida Bar Exam.

The ceremony marked an important milestone as these new attorneys officially began their legal careers, surrounded by faculty, family, and friends who supported them לאורך the journey.

Also pictured is Dean Tarlika Nuñez-Navarro, former 17th Judicial Circuit judge, who continues to play a vital role in shaping the next generation of legal professionals.

by Sallie James — April 20, 2026 in Announcements

Students Showcase Skills at Mock Trial Competition: Nova Wins!

Middle school mock trial teams brought their A-game on Friday, with students from A.D. Henderson University School, American Heritage, Beachside Montessori, Nova, Pompano Beach, and William Dandy going head-to-head in a spirited competition.

Nova Middle School won first place. A.D. Henderson University School was the runner up.

About 75 students participated, stepping into the roles of attorneys and witnesses — dressed to impress in suits, ties, skirts, and jackets — and ready to argue their cases with confidence and skill.

A big thank you to Judge Michele Towbin-Singer, Judge Florence Taylor Barner, Judge Stacey Schulman, Judge Mindy Brown, Judge Francis Viamontes, Hearing Officer Rebecca Frieden, and Staff Attorney Amy M. Berger for lending their time and expertise to support the event.

An outstanding and impressive showing by all involved!

by Sallie James — April 17, 2026 in Admin Orders