Today, judges throughout the courthouse had the honor of swearing in newly minted lawyers just hours after the Florida Board of Bar Examiners released the results of the July 2026 Florida Bar Examination. The Florida Supreme Court approved 1,700 of the 2,500 first-time applicants who took the full exam in Tampa for admission to The Florida Bar.

Among those celebrating their accomplishments today:

• Crystal Couso — St. Thomas University
• Rachel Stazzone — Florida International University
• Jonathan Strauss — Nova Southeastern University
• Liliana Zavala — University of Miami

(Sworn in by Judge Michele Towbin Singer)

• Edon Saiyag — Florida State University (Sworn in by Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips)
• Brooke Olefson – Nova Southeastern University (Sworn in by her mother Judge Shari Africk-Olefson)

Congratulations to all of the newest members of The Florida Bar! Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in these new lawyers’ legal careers.

Today, judges throughout the courthouse had the honor of swearing in newly minted lawyers just hours after the Florida Board of Bar Examiners released the results of the July 2026 Florida Bar Examination. The Florida Supreme Court approved 1,700 of the 2,500 first-time applicants who took the full exam in Tampa for admission to The Florida Bar.

And in a particularly special moment, Judge Shari Africk-Olefson swore in her daughter Brooke, who earned her law degree from Nova Southeastern University. She plans to specialize in Intellectual Property and Corporate work.

Congratulations to all of the newest members of The Florida Bar! Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in these new lawyers’ legal careers.

Judge Kal Evans was recently invited to speak at a meeting of the Black Law Students Association at Nova Southeastern University’s Shepard Broad College of Law.

Judge Evans said he was impressed by how quickly the new law students became involved in voluntary student organizations. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with these budding law students and welcome them as they begin their legal education.

A great start to the school year!

Today, the 17th Judicial Circuit joins Americans across the country in recognizing Constitution Day – a day that commemorates the adoption of the U.S. Constitution and celebrates those who have become U.S. citizens.

On September 17, 1787, delegates signed the Constitution in Philadelphia, establishing the foundation of our government and the principles that continue to guide our nation.

For the 17th Judicial Circuit, the Constitution holds special significance. It is the foundation of our justice system and the rule of law, guiding the courts in protecting rights, ensuring fairness and upholding justice.

We are proud to take note of this momentous occasion and honor the enduring principles of our Constitution.

Students from Atlantic Technical College and Technical High School recently visited Juvenile Court and Criminal Court during a wide-ranging tour of the downtown courthouse. They peeked inside the jury room, heard presentations from the Public Defender’s Office and the Broward Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab, and met Judges Elijah H. Williams and Lorena V. Mastrarrigo.

The students peppered both judges with questions, learned what it takes to become a judge, and observed judges on the bench holding court.

Hands-on learning is the best!

In observance of Yom Kippur, the Day of Reflection, all courts in the 17th Judicial Circuit will be closed on Monday, September 21, 2026. This includes:

• Broward County Judicial Complex (Main Courthouse) – Fort Lauderdale
• North Regional Courthouse – Deerfield Beach
• South Regional Courthouse – Hollywood
• West Regional Courthouse – Plantation

We extend our best wishes for a meaningful day to all who observe. Regular court operations will resume on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.