The 17th Judicial Circuit celebrated the launch of its new Family Court Services (FCS) program this week with a formal kickoff event that drew about 70 attendees, including sitting and retired judges, attorneys, service providers and case managers.

The FCS program is designed to connect individuals involved in family litigation with appropriate therapeutic resources while also helping ensure compliance with court orders. The initiative aims to improve conflict resolution and provide meaningful support services to families, with special sensitivity to the needs of children.

Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips, along with Judges Lauren M. Alperstein and Hope Tieman Bristol, joined Nan Rich of the Broward County Commission in speaking at the event, highlighting the importance of collaboration in helping families navigate the court system and access the services they need.

Second-, third-, and fourth-grade students from several Fort Lauderdale elementary schools spent a memorable day at the courthouse reading with judges, asking questions, and learning about the importance of having their voices heard during “A Day for Reading,” sponsored by the Children’s Services Council of Broward County.

Judges read the book Say Something by Peter H. Reynolds to the students, then answered questions about everything from the law, what it takes to become a judge, and what happens inside a courtroom.

The visit with Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips was especially unforgettable. Students shreiked with delight when she surprised them with miniature judicial robes and plastic gavels so they could each be “judge for a day.” There was a lot of gavel pounding.

It was a fun morning for everyone and proof that it’s never too early to learn the power of speaking up.

#BrowardCourts #DayForReading #JudicialOutreach #LiteracyMatters #FutureLeaders

Fourth- and fifth-grade students from Pine Lakes Elementary in Pembroke Pines had a blast during their courthouse visit – meeting judges, peeking inside courtrooms, visiting a jury room, and riding plenty of elevators in both the West Tower and North Wing.

The students met County Court Judge Jackie Powell and Circuit Court Judge Thomas J. Coleman, peppering them with questions about what it takes to become a lawyer, the kinds of cases they’ve handled, and whether they enjoy their jobs.

They also met Janelle Floyd, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Broward Public Defender’s Office, who turned learning into a game by quizzing students for candy prizes in what quickly became a fierce competition.

The students, who participate in the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project, had a fun and memorable day – learning about the justice system and the many careers within it.

Judges Lauren M. Alperstein, Stacey Schulman, and Yael Gamm of the 17th Judicial Circuit were recently honored as “Chutzpah Girls” at the David Posnack JCC, celebrating their leadership, compassion, and dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others while strengthening our community.

Who is a Chutzpah Girl? According to the JCC, a Chutzpah Girl is a woman who goes above and beyond – leading by example and lifting up those around her. She is compassionate, courageous, and unafraid to speak up when it matters. Chutzpah Girls are fearless and have the bold “nerve” to defy norms, pursue their goals, and fight injustice. They are trailblazing women who act with unwavering conviction, assertiveness, and courage to transform the world—not simply challenge it.

The 17th Judicial Circuit is incredibly proud of these three outstanding judges and fortunate to have them as part of our team.