H.O.M.E.S. Youth Visit the Courthouse

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H.O.M.E.S. Youth Visit the Courthouse

Young adults from H.O.M.E.S. Inc., a nonprofit that provides housing, job coaching, tuition assistance and job placement services to at-risk youth, recently visited the courthouse for an inside look at the justice system.

During their tour, they met Judges Corey Friedman, Michael Davis and Lorena V. Mastrarrigo and visited First Appearance Court, Drug Court and Criminal Court.

They also met Tayron Lopez from the Public Defender’s Office and Sanissa Macko, a DNA expert with the Broward Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab.

It was a great opportunity for these young adults to learn more about the courts, the people who work in them and the many career paths available in the justice system.

by Sallie James — September 4, 2026 in Announcements

Bringing Drug Court to the Front Lines

Judge Michael Davis, who presides over Drug Court, and Drug Court Manager Russell Edwards were recently invited to speak at the monthly firefighter/EMS meeting about the Circuit’s Drug Court program.

The presentation provided an opportunity to share how Drug Court works, discuss the impact of the program and highlight the collaborative effort involved in helping people overcome substance use and successfully move forward.

It was a great opportunity to connect with the firefighters and EMS professionals who are often on the front lines of the challenges associated with addiction and to share how the justice system can be part of the solution.

by Sallie James — September 3, 2026 in Announcements

All Broward Courts Closed On Monday, Sept. 7, in Observance of Labor Day

All Broward courts will be closed on Sept. 7 in observance of Labor Day.

The 17th Judicial Circuit extends a heartfelt thank you to all our hardworking courthouse employees – from clerks and staff to our dedicated judges. Your commitment to justice and public service helps uphold the rule of law and ensure fair, efficient access to the courts.

We also salute every hardworking individual in our community – your contributions, big and small, help keep our society moving forward.

Thank you for all you do! All Broward courts will re-open on Tuesday, September 8.

#ThankYou #HardWorkMatters #CourtStrong #JusticeInAction #17thJudicialCircuit #RuleOfLaw #PublicService #Gratitude

by Sallie James — September 2, 2026 in Announcements

Stuffing Bears, Spreading Comfort

Hearing officers and magistrates spent their lunch hour stuffing teddy bears to help make the court experience a little less scary for children.

The bears will find a home in Dependency Court, where they will be given to children whose families are involved in the court system. The cuddly companions are meant to provide a little comfort and reassurance during what can be an uncertain and difficult time.

Our volunteer bear stuffers assembled nearly 20 teddy bears for young children — proving that sometimes a small gesture can make a big difference.

by Sallie James — September 1, 2026 in Announcements

Congratulations on Your Investiture Judge Franker!

The historic “double” investiture on Aug. 28 for Judge Jeremy I. Franker was a first for the 17^th Judicial Circuit.

The former federal prosecutor – who was appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis to the County Court bench on Feb. 25 – was scheduled to have his County Court investiture on Aug. 28 when he was notified of Aug. 19 of a big change: the Governor was elevating him to the Circuit Court bench. The unusual circumstances marked the first time a judge in the 17th Judicial Circuit has been elevated to another court before the investiture for the first judicial appointment.

The news meant plans for Judge Franker’s Aug. 28th formal robing ceremony for County Court had to quickly be revised to also include an investiture for Circuit Court. Judge Franker’s double investiture in courtroom 17150 meant two proclamations (one for County Court and one for Circuit Court) and some last minute program changes.

Welcome to the Circuit Court bench Judge Franker!

by Sallie James — August 28, 2026 in Announcements

Young Lawyers Meet the Chief Judge

Members of the Young Lawyers Section of the Broward County Bar Association recently joined Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips for lunch as part of the BCBA’s “Lunch with the Judiciary” program.

The program provides an opportunity to promote dialogue and strengthen relationships between the judiciary and members of the Broward Bar. Over sandwiches and cookies, the young lawyers asked questions and enjoyed a candid, one-on-one conversation with the Chief Judge.

The afternoon wrapped up with photos to commemorate a great opportunity for connection and conversation between the bench and the bar.

by Sallie James — August 27, 2026 in Announcements