Judge Michael Davis Shares Insights with Somerset Academy Law Studies Students

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Judge Michael Davis Shares Insights with Somerset Academy Law Studies Students

Judge Michael Davis recently visited a Law Studies class at Somerset Academy Middle/High School in Pembroke Pines where he spoke to students about the legal profession. Students got to hear firsthand about the judge’s experiences and gain insight into the important work judges do. Judge Davis presides over Drug Court, a nationally acclaimed treatment court designated as one of only 10 mentor drug courts in the nation.

by Sallie James — November 12, 2026 in Announcements

Thank You to the Veterans of the 17th Judicial Circuit

In observance of Veterans Day, the 17th Judicial Circuit would like to thank our veterans for their service, sacrifices, and valor. Pictured here are some of our employees and their loved ones who have served – or continue to serve — in our armed forces.

Among those pictured: Judge Michael A. Usan, USAF; retired Chief Judge Peter Weinstein, US Army; Judge Edward H. Merrigan, Major General, US Army; Digital Court Reporter Donald Brown, US Army; Kenneth Logan Sr., USMC, father of Judge Stefanie C. Moon; Frank J. Lazorishak, USAF, father-in-law of Judge Florence Taylor Barner; Oscar C. James, US Navy, father of Public Information Officer Sallie James; Arthur St. Amand, USAF, father of Family Court Services Manager Diane St. Amand-Scott; Michael Scott, USAF, husband of Diane St. Amand-Scott; Brendan Patrick McCarthy, US Army, brother of Judge Kathleen McCarthy; Giles Justin McCarthy, USAF, father of Judge McCarthy; Charles Creary, US Army, son of Magistrate Hilary Creary; Frederica Creary, USMC, sister of Magistrate Creary; Judge Elijah H. Williams, USAF, and wife (retired) Lt. Colonel Deborah Williams, USAF; Judge Jay Hurley, US Navy; Gary W. Goodenow, USMC, uncle of staff attorney Gary Goodenow; Ronald Buchholz, USAF, son of Judicial Assistant Patti Buchholz; Ronald Smith, US Army, father of Patti Buchholz; Purchasing agent Vincent Knowles, US Army; and Zachary Salas, US Navy, brother of Linda N. Lippert, administrative assistant in Unified Family Court. THANK YOU for everything you do for our country and our freedom.

by Sallie James — November 10, 2026 in Announcements

Judge Jackie Powell Shares Insights with FIU Law Students

Judge Jackie Powell spoke last week at the FIU College of Law’s Professionalism Lunch and Learn, hosted by the Black Law Students Association.

The event gave law students an opportunity to meet with a judge, ask questions, gain insights into the legal profession and network with fellow students and a legal professional.

Thank you to the Black Law Students Association for hosting this valuable opportunity to connect with the next generation of legal professionals!

by Sallie James — November 9, 2026 in Announcements

Courtroom Dedication in Memory of Judge Susan F. Greenhawt

Courtroom 11174 will be dedicated today in memory of longtime Family Division Judge Susan F. Greenhawt, who died on March 10, 2023. Judge Greenhawt was a beloved friend, mentor and source of wisdom to the many whose lives she touched. Judge Greenhawt was appointed to the Circuit Court bench in 2003 by then-Governor Jeb Bush, serving solely in the Family Division until her retirement in 2012. She became a mediator and eventually served as a Senior Judge during the COVID pandemic. The public is invited to attend.

by Sallie James — November 6, 2026 in Announcements

Domestic Violence Symposium Brings Judges and Service Providers Together

The Judge Michael G. Kaplan Domestic Violence Service Provider Symposium brought together three judges who preside over domestic violence cases and a wide range of community service providers for an opportunity to share information, network and discuss resources available to victims.

Participating judges in the Oct. 29 event included Judges Michael G. Kaplan, Kevin P. Tynan and Stefanie C. Moon, who shared their perspectives and insights with attendees.

The symposium highlighted the importance of collaboration among the courts and community organizations in connecting domestic violence victims with the services and support they need.

by Sallie James — November 5, 2026 in Announcements

Voters Elect Tamar N. Hamilton to Circuit Court Bench

The 17th Judicial Circuit is pleased to announce the election of Tamar N. Hamilton to the Circuit Court bench. Judge-elect Hamilton will be sworn in next January. Judge-Elect Tamar Hamilton is an experienced attorney, Special Magistrate, and Adjunct Professor of Law at St. Thomas University College of Law. A graduate of St. Thomas University School of Law with honors, she brings more than 12 years of legal experience, including civil litigation, real estate, and probate matters. Born in Jamaica and a Broward County resident for more than 25 years, she is also the Immediate Past President of the Jamaican American Bar Association.

“I am deeply humbled and honored by the trust the people of Broward County have placed in me. This victory is not simply a personal achievement; it is a testament to faith, perseverance, and the power of community,” Judge-Elect Hamilton said.

Welcome to the bench!

by Sallie James — November 4, 2026 in Announcements