All Posts in "Court Updates"

Ex Parte Communications Training!

Case managers, judicial assistants, magistrates and hearing officers from the 17th Judicial Circuit got a crash course in ex parte communications during a special May 9th training session conducted by instructors Maxine Williams – the Administrative Magistrate from the 15th Judicial Circuit, and Keith Schenk, a Magistrate from the Fifth Judicial Circuit. The duo made learning easy by testing participants with real life ex parte scenarios that varied in complexity. Magistrate Yves Laventure, of the 17th, also shared some of his own thoughts and suggestions regarding ex parte communications. More than 40 people attended. Great event!

by — May 16, 2025 in Announcements
Six Years of Dedication to Community Court: Thank you, Judge Tuter, for Your Support

The City of Fort Lauderdale honored retired Chief Judge Jack Tuter at an appreciation luncheon today at the Broward County Main Library, where he was praised for his dedication and support of Fort Lauderdale Community Court, which serves the unhoused. Also present were County Court Judge Florence Taylor Barner, who presides in Community Court, and the support staff that makes the Court hum. The 17th Judicial Circuit’s new Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips also attended, along with Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis, Police Chief William Schultz, City Manager Rickelle Williams and Chief Service Officer Jorg Hruschka, among others. Judge Tuter retired on May 1st after nearly 20 years as a judge. We miss you Judge Tuter. Congratulations!

by — May 16, 2025 in Announcements
“Bikers Against Trafficking” Discusses Trauma for Problem-Solving Courts Month

The founders of “Bikers Against Trafficking” visited the 17th Judicial Circuit this week to discuss the long-term effects of human trafficking, point out often-missed red flags and explain what can be done to help. Patrick “Doc” Nave and his wife Diena “Rainey” were both trafficked as children, meeting years later in treatment. Determined to shine a light on human trafficking and help eradicate this horrific practice, the couple founded the nonprofit BAT in January 2016. Their goal: to restore hope and healing to those who have been trafficked. Doc has a Doctoral degree in therapy, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Masters Certified Addiction Counselor and is a Diplomate in Trauma Counseling. Rainey is the Business Manager and Trauma Counselor at Sojourners Recovery & Wellness Center AND Family4Today and an addiction counselor. Amazing event to highlight Problem-Solving Courts Month! Visit BIKERSAGAINSTRAFFICKING.ORG to learn more.

by — May 16, 2025 in Court Updates
Hollywood Community Court: Helping the Unhoused

It took nearly a year but her success story was heart-stopping. Unhoused for nearly a dozen years, the Community Court participant now has her own place and her own keys. A new beginning, thanks to Hollywood Community Court. Here’s how it played out: the woman was referred to Community Court after receiving multiple charges for lodging/sleeping in public. During a 10-month period, she completed community service hours, completed all program requirements and followed up with service provider referrals and appointments. Meanwhile, Community Court worked with Broward Outreach Center, which secured her a slot in their residential program. Ultimately, they obtained housing with assistance from Broward County’s HOSS-D team and their permanent supportive housing program. Thank you Judge Corey Cawthon and your amazing support team for changing lives for the better.

by — May 14, 2025 in Announcements
Judges & Magistrates Speak at Day-Long Family Law Conference

The BCBA’s Family Law section sponsored “Raising the Bar Family Law Conference” at Fort Lauderdale’s Tower Club last week and the 17th Judicial Circuit was well-represented. Both our judges and magistrates presented during the day long seminar.

Pictured left to right are Judges Christopher Wigand, Johnathan D. Lott, Jessica M. Marra, Lauren M. Alperstein, Catalina Avalos and Magistrate Hilary Creary. Also in attendance were Judges Kristin R. Kanner, Carlos Rodriguez and Magistrate Lucy Ramos Miller.

by — May 12, 2025 in Announcements
Congratulations on Your Retirement, Fred!

It was a grand sendoff with two gorgeous cakes, a lot of hugs and a bounty of well wishes for Court Administration employee Fred Cariano, who retired on Friday. A state employee for nearly 23 years, Fred worked in Human Resources for 13 years. His smile, his easy-going nature and his collection of ceramic cardinals were his signature, so it was no surprise that he boxed up the cardinals and urged his colleagues to take one as a remembrance. A cardinal is sometimes viewed as a spiritual messenger from a loved one. Best of luck Fred in your next chapter. We will miss you!

by — May 9, 2025 in Announcements
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