Students from thirteen local schools participated in a mock trial competition beginning on Friday, February 2, 2024 at the 17th Circuit courthouse. American Heritage and Fort Lauderdale High exceled as the two remaining schools who competed in finals.

The finals resulted in American Heritage as the winning team who will be moving on to the state level of the competition later this year. The 17th Circuit extends our appreciation to St. Thomas Benjamin L. Crump College of Law for having 40 of its law student’s volunteer as jurors for the mock trial.

The 17th Judicial Circuit of Florida celebrated its Black judges and magistrates on Friday, February 16, 2024.

A beautiful rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” was led by Mr. Kenneth Howard, and followed with several video interviews highlighting Retired Judges Mary Rudd Robinson, Zebedee Wright and Carole Y. Taylor.

17th Circuit judges and magistrates were then recognized for their dedication and great efforts for their service to the people of Broward County.

Judge Florence Taylor Barner united with the Community Court Pompano Beach to recognize Major Wayne Adkins who was retiring after 47 years of service with the Broward County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday, February 1, 2024.

Major Adkins was on the steering committee for the Community Court Pompano Beach and will be forever esteemed for playing an instrumental role in the establishment of this location.

Judge Betsy Benson was honored by Mayor Rex Hardin of Pompano Beach and the coordinators of Community Court Pompano Beach with the key to the city on Thursday, February 8, 2024.

Judge Benson received the honor for her commitment to serving the Broward County community and helping those in need.

Students from the BSO Explorer program of Pompano Beach visited the 17th Circuit courthouse on Tuesday, February 19, 2024.

The explorers visited with Judges Elijah H. Williams, Michael J. Orlando and Jackie Powell who spoke to them about the judicial system and what it could be like for them to pursue a career in the legal field.

Court Administration from the 17th Circuit joined the Early Childhood and Dependency Drug Court to host a meet and greet for one of their newest collaborators in Peer Specialist Martine Pierre on Tuesday, February 20, 2024.

Ms. Pierre represents the South Florida Wellness Network and is part of a team that offers a variety of services for individuals and families in need.