Judge Ari Abraham Porth united with several 17th Judicial Circuit staff and justice system stakeholders to join Hands on Broward in bringing a special story time to students of North Fork Elementary. Judge Porth and others took time to read to the students with the book “Nigel and the Moon” being highlighted. The story shares a message of taking pride in oneself and being proud of where you come from.

The photos include Judge Porth, Judicial Assistant Makila Holmes, State Attorney Richard O’Connor, Public Defender Gena Cohen, Attorney Kevin McGill, Pretrial Officer Brittany Pereda, Public Defender Melinda Blostein, Public Defender Rachel Constant, Pretrial Officer Andrea Hansen, State Attorney Emma Lubin, and Drug Court Case Manager Ben Francois.

Today at the 17th Judicial Circuit, the ECC welcomed a visit from Matthew Wilson, the Statewide Program Manager for Family Drug Treatment Court at Australia’s Court Services Victoria.
Judge Hope Tieman Bristol and ECC Program Director Trent Baker coordinated the visit where Mr. Wilson was able to complete observation for the Churchill Fellowship by examining contemporary practices with children and families in care and protection jurisdictions.
The 17th Judicial Circuit applauds Statewide Program Manager Matthew Wilson for his participation in the Churchill Fellowship and for spending time here with us during his visit.

On October 17th, 2022, General Magistrate Patricia Judge-Lashley was sworn in by Chief Judge Jack Tuter at the 17th Judicial Circuit Courthouse.

General Magistrate Judge-Lashley has accomplished great academic achievements including a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Business from Barry University and a Juris Doctor Degree from Stetson University College of Law.

General Magistrate Judge-Lashley concluded the ceremony with her husband Scott present and states that she is “…very honored and thankful for this opportunity”.

From Chief Judge Tuter and the 17th Judicial Circuit Staff, Congratulations General Magistrate Judge-Lashley!

With the coordination of Judge Florence Taylor Barner and Chief Judge Jack Tuter, the 17th Judicial Circuit initiated the ceremonial opening of the Community Court in Pompano Beach, the second Community Court location in Broward County. The opening ceremony took place on October 13th, 2022 at the Annie L. Weaver Health Center.
The ceremony was organized by Judge Barner and Pompano Beach Housing and Social Services Manager Cassandra Rhett. Despite stormy weather, the ceremony was off to a strong start with speeches given by Judge Barner and Chief Judge Tuter. Guest speakers included Mayor of Pompano Beach Rex Hardin and Vice Mayor Beverly Perkins.
A ceremonial ribbon cutting launched the opening of the Pompano Beach Community Court, and court sessions will take place twice a month on Thursdays starting at 1:00 PM.

For more information on the 17th Judicial Circuit Community Court, click on the link below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFzD0wtcqeU

Chief Judge Jack Tuter and the staff of the 17th Judicial Circuit give Trial Court Administrator Kathleen R. Pugh a warm send off as she begins her retirement.

On October 20th, 2022, the Court Administration of the 17th Circuit hosted a luncheon to bid TCA Kathleen Pugh farewell. 17th Circuit Court Administration Staff were in attendance for the luncheon and bared witness to Chief Judge Tuter awarding TCA Pugh with a plaque of appreciation for all that she has accomplished while serving the 17th Circuit Staff.

On behalf of Chief Judge Tuter and the entire staff of the 17th Judicial Circuit, Best Wishes on your retirement Kathy, may you enjoy it to the fullest!

17th Circuit applauds Major General Edward H. Merrigan on being conferred a second star by the United States Senate on September 29th, 2022.
Major General Merrigan has many academic accolades including a Juris Doctorate from Samford University, Cumberland School of Law and a Master’s Degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.
Major General Merrigan’s military achievements include his role as the Battalion Executive Officer of the 478th Civil Affairs Battalion (FID/UW). He would deploy to Iraq in this role to participate in Operation Iraqi Freedom II. Major General Merrigan also received several medals including the Iraq Campaign Medal with two Bronze Stars and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
Major General Merrigan has been a circuit court judge in Fort Lauderdale, FL since 2009. He continues to preside over a felony criminal trial division. Adding to his many accomplishments, Major General is also the founder of the Broward County Veterans Court.
The 17th Judicial Circuit supports Major General Merrigan in all of his efforts and is proud of his continued military success while continuing to serve the public through his judicial service.
Congratulations Major General Merrigan, we salute you!