Congratulations to Judge Jackie Powell, who received the Legacy of Justice Award from the Lauderhill Chamber of Commerce this week in celebration of National Caribbean American Heritage Month. Judge Powell presides in County Court and was the first Jamaican American woman to be elected to the bench in Broward County. The Jamaican native was first elected in 2018 and began a new six-year term in January 2025. Judge Powell was the keynote speaker at the June 25th event.

Participants from the Friendship Circle of Greater Fort Lauderdale visited the courthouse this week for an educational and inspiring behind-the-scenes experience.

The group met with Judge Kal Evans, who answered numerous questions about the court system and his role as a judge. They then toured the Clothing Closet, a unique court resource located in the criminal wing that provides free clothing and toys to individuals and families in need through referrals and community outreach.

The special-needs adults learned about the Clothing Closet’s mission from Marie Alvarez Ortiz, a Juvenile Services Coordinator who has made the program her passion project. Since reopening after the pandemic, the Clothing Closet has served more than 500 children and 1,000 adults in the community.

Thank you to the Friendship Circle of Fort Lauderdale for visiting and learning more about the many ways the court serves our community beyond the courtroom.

A contingent of Polish judges visited the courtroom of Circuit Judge Jose Izquierdo on Thursday, where they observed a dependency case and later participated in a Q&A.

Judge Izquierdo discussed the complexities of dependency proceedings and explained why many dependency matters are not open to the public. The visiting judges are in Florida courtesy Global Ties Miami, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering international relationships and advancing understanding, connections, and cultural exchange through citizen diplomacy and international exchange programs. The judges preside in courts in Gdansk, Warsaw, Rzeszow and Piaseczno.

The visit provided a valuable opportunity for judicial colleagues from different countries to exchange ideas and learn more about the American court system.

The 17th Judicial Circuit is proud to announce The Honorable Elijah H. Williams as a recipient of the Stephen R. Booher Award, presented in recognition of humanity, integrity, and unwavering service to the Bench, Bar, and community.

This distinguished honor will be presented at the Broward County Bar Association’s 2026 Annual Installation Dinner & Gala.

You are truly a standout. Congratulations, Judge Williams, on this well-deserved recognition.