A Life Lesson in Civics

All Posts in "Announcements"

A Life Lesson in Civics

Students from PSG Homeschool got an inside look at the justice system during an wide-ranging visit to the courthouse.

They met Judge Nina W. Di Pietro (County Civil) and Judge Lorena V. Mastrarrigo (Circuit Criminal), explored forensics with Tonya Woytek from the Broward Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab, and learned about the Public Defender’s Office from Janelle Floyd, community outreach coordinator.

The students asked great questions, played interactive games, and discovered what it’s really like to work in the legal system. 👩‍⚖️🔍👨‍⚖️

by Sallie James — October 7, 2025 in Announcements

Shining Star Award Winner: Craig Sherritt!

We are thrilled to announce that Craig Sherritt, staff attorney, has been selected as the recipient of the Court Administration Shining Star Award! Craig was nominated by two of his colleagues for his mentorship of new staff attorneys and his outstanding professionalism.

The Shining Star Award recognizes Court Administration employees who demonstrate exceptional contributions, enabling judges, management, and fellow staff to celebrate their achievements. Eligible nominees are Court Administration employees with at least one year of continuous service, and nominations should highlight contributions from the past 90 days. Craig will enjoy a dedicated parking spot in the East Garage for approximately three months as part of this honor.

Please join us in congratulating Craig on this much-deserved recognition! 👏⚖️

by Sallie James — October 1, 2025 in Announcements

A Peek Inside the Courthouse

A group of Women of Tomorrow students from Park Vista Community High School in Lake Worth spent the morning visiting the courtrooms of Judges Elijah H. Williams and Ari Abraham Porth.

The students gained a firsthand look at juvenile justice—seeing youth in shackles, experiencing the tight confines of a locked jail cell, learning more about mental health and asking plenty of thoughtful questions. They also met with the Broward Public Defender’s Community Outreach Coordinator Janelle B. Floyd, who outlined the vital role public defenders play in our justice system.

It was a powerful, hands-on learning experience these students won’t soon forget, showing why courthouses remain important places of learning, accountability, and community connection.

by Sallie James — September 30, 2025 in Announcements

All Broward Courts Closed for Yom Kippur

In observance of Yom Kippur, the Day of Reflection, all courts in the 17th Judicial Circuit will be closed on Thursday, October 2, 2025. This includes:

Broward County Judicial Complex (Main Courthouse) – Fort Lauderdale
North Regional Courthouse – Deerfield Beach
South Regional Courthouse – Hollywood
West Regional Courthouse – Plantation

We extend our best wishes for a meaningful day to all who observe. Regular court operations will resume on Friday, October 3, 2025.

by Sallie James — September 26, 2025 in Announcements

Hope, Healing & Second Chances at Pompano Community Court

It was an afternoon of transformation at Pompano Beach Community Court, where Judge Betsy Benson presides.

✨ A 23-year-old man in recovery proudly graduated.
✨ At least three people experiencing homelessness were connected with essential services.
✨ A mother of 7-year-old twins, who had been living in a laundromat, received immediate housing assistance and was connected with long-term support to help her rebuild.

There were hugs, tears, cheers, and smiles as this unique court changed lives with empathy, kindness, new direction, and hope. The court is located at the Anne Weaver Health Center, at 2011 NW Third Ave., Pompano Beach.

Pompano Beach Community Court—one of three in the 17th Judicial Circuit—takes on low-level misdemeanor cases and municipal ordinance violations by offering innovative alternatives like community service, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment. Community Court was created to help the homeless. Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood also have Community Courts.

Since January, Pompano Beach Community Court has:
✔️ Served 34 walk-ins
✔️ Heard 16 notices to appear
✔️ Connected participants with vital services through organizations such as SunServe, Broward Health, Care Resource, Henderson Behavioral Health, Legal Aid, Covenant House, Vocational Rehabilitation, Women in Distress, South Florida Wellness Network, BARC, and Serving Him Helping You Ministries.

This is what justice with compassion looks like. 💙

by Sallie James — September 19, 2025 in Announcements

17th Circuit Judicial Assistants Join Statewide Conference in Orlando

Judicial Assistants from the 17th Judicial Circuit recently joined colleagues from across Florida at the Judicial Assistants Conference in Orlando. Nearly 140 Judicial Assistants attended.

From exploring the role of AI in the courts—“A tool, a threat, or both?”—to sessions on cybersecurity, security for judicial assistants, work-life balance, and handling vexatious litigants, the conference was packed with valuable learning.

With circuit- and county-specific breakouts, inspiring speakers, and statewide networking, it was an amazing opportunity to learn, share experiences, and connect.

📍 Rosen Plaza & Resort, Orlando

by Sallie James — September 19, 2025 in Announcements