All Posts in "Announcements"

A Visit to the Courthouse …

When you tour the courthouse you never know who you will meet! A Girl Scout troop on a recent tour got an impromptu lesson in civics from Broward State Attorney Harold F. Pryor and Chief Assistant Public Defender Tayron Lopez. They also met Judge Ari Abraham Porth in felony mental health and Judge Michael J. Orlando in Delinquency. A highlight of the visit? A visit inside a prisoner holding cell, which shined a light on the lack of privacy inmates experience. What a great way to learn. Thank you all for making this such a great experience!

by — June 9, 2025 in Announcements
Judge Elijah H. Williams Leads Thought-Provoking Session at 2024–25 Leadership Academy

Broward Circuit Judge Elijah H. Williams, delinquency chair for the 17th Judicial Circuit, taught at the 2024–25 Wm. Reece Smith Jr. Leadership Academy, held May 16–17 at the Westin Hotel in Fort Lauderdale. The two-day academy focused on “The Power of Curiosity, Vulnerability, and Finding Your Tribe,” and included building communication skills, promoting civility in the legal profession, understanding professionalism and disciplinary rules, and enhancing emotional intelligence.

by — June 6, 2025 in Announcements
17th Circuit Team Attends RISE25 Conference on Justice and Recovery

Representatives from the 17th Judicial Circuit attended the RISE25 Conference, held May 28–31 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee, Florida.
This national event brought together professionals from Juvenile, Dependency, and Adult Drug Courts, as well as Mental Health and Veterans Courts, to share ideas and best practices. Attendees from our Circuit included a judge, attorneys, program managers, coordinators, case managers, peer specialists, and representatives from ChildNet. The conference—recognized as the leading event on substance use, mental health, and justice innovation—offered powerful opportunities for learning, connection, and recommitment to building healthier, safer communities.

by — June 5, 2025 in Announcements
ABOTA Welcomes Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips

The American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) welcomed Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips to her new position with a monogrammed hangar and drinking cup. Judge Phillips took over as Chief Judge on May 1st, in the wake of Chief Judge Jack Tuter’s retirement after nearly 20 years on the bench, eight as Chief Judge. On hand to present the swag were three of the ABOTA’s heavy hitters: Jordan Kirby, ABOTA membership chair; Braulio Rosa, ABOTA executive director; and Miles McGrane IV, ABOTA’s president-elect (pictured left to right). And of course, Judge Phillips. Thank you ABOTA for the warm welcome!

by — June 3, 2025 in Announcements
Judge Lauren Alperstein Honored with Tzedek Award

Congratulations to Judge Lauren M. Alperstein on being honored with the prestigious Tzedek Award! This accolade is a testament to Judge Alperstein’s unwavering commitment to justice and fairness. The Tzedek Award is bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated exemplary dedication to upholding the principles of justice and equality, making this recognition both significant and well-deserved. Judge Alperstein’s contributions to the legal community and their impact on society are commendable, inspiring others to pursue justice with integrity and compassion. The Jewish Bar Association of Broward County & Broward Bar Association honored Judge Alperstein with the Tzedek Award on May 29, 2025 in observance of Jewish American Heritage Month. Once again, congratulations on this remarkable achievement! (pictured with her father Gary Marks, Esq.)

by — June 2, 2025 in Announcements
Community Outreach Through Community Court

Community Court is all about celebrating success stories! Meet County Court Judge Betsy Benson, who presides in Community Court in Pompano Beach, one of the 17th Judicial Circuit’s three courts created to assist the unhoused. Judge Benson addresses low-level misdemeanor crimes and municipal ordinance violations that range from trespass and unlawful lodging, to park after hours and petty theft. Innovative solutions include community service hours, mental health treatment or substance abuse treatment in lieu of incarceration. Recent participants ranged in age from their mid-20s to older than age 65. However, criminal charges aren’t necessary to access the social services on hand. Helping to identify the root causes of homelessness to facilitate better outcomes is what the Community Court initiative is all about. Community Courts also operate in Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood. Pompano Beach Community Court is held at the Annie L. Weaver Health Center, at 2011 NW Third Ave., Pompano Beach.

by — May 30, 2025 in Announcements
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