A Forever Family for Ezekiel

All Posts in "Sallie James"

A Forever Family for Ezekiel

It was a magical day in court on Tuesday for 3½-year-old Ezekiel David, whose adoption was finalized by Judge Alberto Ribas, Jr.

Ezekiel was adopted by the foster mother who had lovingly cared for him since he was just 4 months old. Surrounded by family and friends—including his 15-month-old brother—the courtroom erupted in celebration as the adoption became official.

For the first time in his young life, Ezekiel has a forever family: a devoted mother, a sibling, grandparents, and a room full of loved ones cheering him on as he begins this new chapter. Adoptions are the happiest days at the courthouse!

Congratulations to the entire family on this happy milestone!

by Sallie James — July 7, 2026 in Announcements

Trial Lawyers Mentor Interns and Share Expertise

Top trial attorneys Kimberly Wald of Haggard Law Firm and Jessica Bartell of Spellacy, Hernandez & Bartell last week shared their expertise with approximately 20 summer law student interns at the 17th Judicial Circuit.

During the interactive discussion, the attorneys covered topics ranging from jury selection and the growing role of artificial intelligence in the courts to practical advice on building a successful legal career. Their real-world insights gave the interns a valuable look at the practice of law beyond the classroom.

by Sallie James — July 6, 2026 in Announcements

Attorneys Share Career Insights with Judicial Interns

Summer law school interns this week gathered in County Court Judge Jackie Powell’s courtroom for a presentation by attorneys Anisha Atchana and Robert Vaughan, partners at Kim Vaughan Lerner LLC.

Drawing on their experience in the legal profession, the attorneys led an interactive discussion about the role of an attorney, sharing insights into the responsibilities, ethics and advocacy that define the profession while answering questions from the aspiring lawyers.

by Sallie James — July 3, 2026 in Announcements

Community Court Judges Connect With Mental Health Partners

Community Court Judges Corey A. Cawthon and Florence Taylor Barner recently attended Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center’s monthly Coffee and Conversations networking event to connect with mental health professionals and community partners who provide vital services to individuals appearing in Community Court.

Judges Cawthon, who presides over Hollywood Community Court, and Barner, who presides over Fort Lauderdale Community Court, joined discussions on mental health, substance abuse, maternal health, and other community issues. The monthly gathering fosters collaboration among organizations dedicated to improving access to care and strengthening community resources – partnerships that help address the underlying issues often seen in Community Court.

by Sallie James — July 2, 2026 in Announcements

4th DCA Judge Brings Visitors to Circuit Court

It was a day of hands-on learning in the courtroom as Judge Melanie G. May, of the Fourth District Court of Appeal, along with her law clerks and a judicial intern, visited the courtroom of Broward Circuit Judge Michele Towbin Singer to observe civil proceedings. Judge Towbin Singer’s summer interns also attended, gaining valuable insight into the judicial process.

Before the hearing, attorneys from both sides spoke with the students about their career paths and offered advice, providing a firsthand look at the legal profession.

by Sallie James — July 1, 2026 in Announcements

Broward Courts Closed July 3rd for Independence Day

All Broward Courts will be closed on Friday, July 3rd, in observance of Independence Day. The affected courthouses include the Broward County Courthouse in Fort Lauderdale, the North Regional Courthouse in Deerfield Beach, the West Regional Courthouse in Plantation and the South Regional Courthouse in Hollywood. All Courthouses will re-open on Monday.

by Sallie James — June 30, 2026 in Announcements