A homeschool group from Palm Beach County spent the day exploring the 17th Judicial Circuit and learning how the courts operate.

The students met with Judge Kenneth L. Gillespie, observed live court proceedings in the courtroom of Judge Elijah H. Williams, learned about the role of the Public Defender’s Office from Assistant Public Defender Tayron Lopez, and explored the science of ballistics with Broward Sheriff’s Office forensic scientist Hery Figueroa.

From the courtroom to the crime lab, there’s no better way to learn about the law than by experiencing it firsthand!

Attention! An ongoing jury duty scam has once again been reported in South Florida. The scam involves attempts to obtain money, threats of fines and even jail time.

Don’t fall for it!

Callers claiming to be law enforcement or Circuit Court judges are threatening victims that have missed jury service, claiming if they do not comply with the caller’s requests, they could be fined or face jail time.

Anyone contacting you to demand a fine or threaten jail time is not connected to the Federal or State Court System nor a member of a law enforcement agency.

Contact the Broward Sheriff’s Office at 954-831-8901 or the U.S. Marshal’s Office at 954-356-7256 if you are contacted.

Read the press release HERE.

Players from the Cobras Travel Soccer Team visited Dependency Court for a firsthand look at the justice system. During their visit, they observed court proceedings, asked thoughtful questions, and met with Judge Jose Izquierdo, who shared insights into the role of the court and the work of a judge.

Afterward, the group gathered over pizza to review the judge’s docket, discuss the cases they had observed, and reflect on what they learned during their day at the courthouse. Experiences like these help bring the justice system to life and show that there’s no substitute for hands-on learning!

The 17th Judicial Circuit’s Drug Court team traveled to Nashville, Tennessee, to attend All Rise 2026, the nation’s premier training conference on addiction, mental health, and justice innovation.

The conference brought together judges, court professionals, treatment providers, and justice system partners from across the country to exchange ideas, share best practices, and learn about the latest evidence-based approaches to treatment courts. Attendees participated in educational sessions focused on emerging research, innovative strategies, and effective practices that help improve outcomes for participants while strengthening problem-solving courts nationwide.

Pictured from left to right are front row: Angela Lewis, Laura Alvarez, and Tabitha Black; back row: Margarita Joseph, Ben Francois, Judge Michael Davis, who presides over the 17th Judicial Circuit’s Adult Drug Court, and Russell Edwards, Drug Court Manager.

County Court judges from the 17th Judicial Circuit joined colleagues from across Florida July 21–23 in Palm Beach County for the Conference of County Court Judges of Florida. More than 250 county court judges from across the state attended.

The conference featured educational sessions led by fellow judges, providing opportunities to continue judicial education, discuss common legal and administrative issues, improve court operations, and develop recommendations on matters affecting Florida’s county courts.

Continuing education helps ensure judges remain current on changes in the law and best practices, strengthening the administration of justice for the communities they serve.

Judge Lorena V. Mastrarrigo welcomed Attorney Juan Carlos Arias this week to speak with the 17th Judicial Circuit’s 2026 Summer Judicial Interns, representing law schools mostly from across the state.

The internship program gives aspiring attorneys the opportunity to observe courtroom proceedings, assist with legal research, connect with judges and other legal professionals, and gain valuable insight into the practice of law through candid discussions and mentorship.

A special thank you to Judge Mastrarrigo for generously sharing her time and helping provide such a meaningful learning experience for the next generation of legal professionals.

There’s simply no substitute for learning firsthand from experienced professionals in the legal field.