Statewide Leaders Visit Broward Dependency Drug Court for 2-Day Collaborative Site Visit

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Statewide Leaders Visit Broward Dependency Drug Court for 2-Day Collaborative Site Visit

On Jan. 21–22, the Broward Dependency Drug Court (DDC) welcomed a two-day site visit from Yonaery “JoJo” Ramos, DDC Statewide Coordinator from the Office of the State Courts Administrator (OSCA), to observe and support the court’s multidisciplinary team.

The visit was hosted by Hon. Hope Tieman Bristol, DDC & Unified Family Administrative Judge, along with Trent Baker, Beth Plotkin, and Toni Baxter, who presented on Florida’s Best Practice Standards and led meaningful discussions with DDC stakeholders.

Also joining the visit were Early Childhood Court (ECC) Statewide Coordinator Lisa Maddocks and Dr. Kimberly Renk, who guided reflective conversations on strengthening multidisciplinary collaboration and applying a trauma-informed approach when working with court participants and families.

An outstanding two days of learning, collaboration, and shared commitment to better outcomes for children and families. An amazing event, all the way around!

by Sallie James — January 23, 2026 in Announcements

ABOTA Recognizes Two Judges with Top Awards for Advancing Justice

The 17^th Judicial Circuit Court is pleased to announce that the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) Fort Laudedale chapter has named Judge Fabienne E. Fahnestock “Jurist of the Year 2025.” ABOTA presented Judge Jeffrey R. Levenson its President’s Award. Judge Fahnestock was chosen by the membership of the American Board of Trial Advocates, Fort Lauderdale Chapter, as our Jurist of the Year for numerous reasons. Judge Fahnestock upholds the standards of civility and professionalism in her courtroom not only in the way she expects the attorneys to act but also through her judicial demeanor. The President’s Award recognizes extraordinary contributions and dedication to furthering the mission of ABOTA. Congratulations! Read our press release HERE.

by Sallie James — January 23, 2026 in Announcements

17th Judicial Circuit Court to Hold Investiture of Judge Pascale Achille

The 17th Judicial Circuit Court is pleased to announce the investiture of Circuit Court Judge Pascale Achille. The ceremony will be held at 1:30 p.m. on February 13 in Courtroom 17150. The investiture formally marks Judge Achille’s entrance into judicial office and is an important tradition recognizing service to the court and the community.

by Sallie James — January 22, 2026 in Announcements

Eighth Graders Get a Front-Row Seat to Justice at the Broward County Courthouse

Eighth-grade students from Nativity Catholic School in Hollywood recently visited the Broward County Courthouse for an immersive, hands-on learning experience.

The students toured the courthouse, visited the law library, and observed first-appearance court hearings, where they learned how judges determine bail. They met Circuit Court Judges Lorena V. Mastrarrigo, Ari Abraham Porth, and Elijah H. Williams, along with County Court Judge Corey B. Friedman, who shared insights into their roles on the bench.

Students also heard from two full-time courthouse interpreters and learned what it takes to translate proceedings simultaneously. The students heard presentations by the Broward Sheriff Office Crime Lab’s latent prints expert Mayxis Rodriguez-Pena and ballistics expert William Ruiz Fontane, offering a real-world look at forensic science. Janelle Floyd, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Broward Public Defender’s Office, explained what the Public Defender’s Office does to represent the indigent.

The experience brought students face-to-face with the justice system and the realities of crime, punishment, and public service.

by Sallie James — January 21, 2026 in Announcements

Judiciary Gathers Sunday at Landmark Church to Honor Life and Legacy of MLK Jr.

A dozen judges and magistrates from the 17th Judicial Circuit Court gathered Sunday at the iconic New Mount Olive Baptist Church in Fort Lauderdale to pay tribute and honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The memorial celebration featured inspiring speeches, video tributes, and powerful choral performances by the church’s male chorus. The keynote address was delivered by Lucien Metellus Jr., 37th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Representing the 17th Circuit, Judge Michael A. Robinson and Judge Keathan Frink also shared remarks. The event was organized by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Zeta Alpha Lambda Chapter, and was also attended by Miami-Dade Circuit Court Judge Daryl Trawick, President of the BBL Chapter.

by Sallie James — January 19, 2026 in Announcements

Community Court Judges Honored as Graduates Celebrate New Beginnings

The City of Pompano Beach honored the judges of Community Court this week with a special celebration that included a formal cap-and-gown graduation for more than a dozen previously unhoused individuals who successfully completed the program with the support of these specialized courts.

In attendance were retired Chief Judge Jack Tuter; Judge Florence Taylor Barner, who presides over Fort Lauderdale Community Court; Judge Betsy Benson, who has served in Pompano Beach Community Court since its inception in October 2022; and Judge Kathleen E. Angione, who will succeed Judge Benson in Pompano Beach Community Court. Also present was Judge John “Jay” Hurley. Fort Lauderdale Community Court was established in 2019.

Community Courts handle low-level misdemeanor cases and municipal ordinance violations by offering innovative alternatives such as community service, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment. The program was established under Chief Judge Tuter to help individuals experiencing homelessness connect with services and achieve stability.

Also in attendance were Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony; Broward Clerk of Courts Brenda Forman; members of the Pompano Beach City Commission; and numerous community service providers who help make these successes possible.

by Sallie James — January 16, 2026 in Announcements