17th Circuit Team Joins Statewide Effort to Strengthen Families

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17th Circuit Team Joins Statewide Effort to Strengthen Families

A large contingent of employees from the 17th Judicial Circuit attended Florida’s Joint Dependency Drug Court & Early Childhood Court All-Sites Meeting, joining multidisciplinary teams from across the state for a powerful and inspiring gathering.

Hosted by the Office of Family Courts, the 2026 All-Sites Meeting centered on the theme “Strengthening Bonds, Restoring Hope: Creating Safe Pathways to Resilient Futures.” The event reflected a shared commitment to supporting families, fostering healing, and building systems that promote long-term stability and well-being.

Held April 14–16, 2026, at the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, the conference united professionals from both Dependency Drug Courts (DDC) and Early Childhood Courts (ECC) to collaborate, learn, and strengthen their impact.

A highlight of the event was a panel discussion facilitated by Judge Hope Tieman Bristol, featuring parents who shared their lived experiences navigating DDC and ECC – offering powerful insight into the real-life impact of these programs.

Thank you to all who continue to make a difference in the lives of Florida’s children and families involved in the dependency court system.

by Sallie James — April 21, 2026 in Announcements

Judge Carbuccia Administers Oath at Attorney Induction Ceremony

Judge Elaine A. Carbuccia had the honor of attending St. Thomas University’s Attorney Induction Ceremony on April 16, 2026, where she proudly administered the oath to former law students who successfully passed the February Florida Bar Exam.

The ceremony marked an important milestone as these new attorneys officially began their legal careers, surrounded by faculty, family, and friends who supported them לאורך the journey.

Also pictured is Dean Tarlika Nuñez-Navarro, former 17th Judicial Circuit judge, who continues to play a vital role in shaping the next generation of legal professionals.

by Sallie James — April 20, 2026 in Announcements

Students Showcase Skills at Mock Trial Competition: Nova Wins!

Middle school mock trial teams brought their A-game on Friday, with students from A.D. Henderson University School, American Heritage, Beachside Montessori, Nova, Pompano Beach, and William Dandy going head-to-head in a spirited competition.

Nova Middle School won first place. A.D. Henderson University School was the runner up.

About 75 students participated, stepping into the roles of attorneys and witnesses — dressed to impress in suits, ties, skirts, and jackets — and ready to argue their cases with confidence and skill.

A big thank you to Judge Michele Towbin-Singer, Judge Florence Taylor Barner, Judge Stacey Schulman, Judge Mindy Brown, Judge Francis Viamontes, Hearing Officer Rebecca Frieden, and Staff Attorney Amy M. Berger for lending their time and expertise to support the event.

An outstanding and impressive showing by all involved!

by Sallie James — April 17, 2026 in Admin Orders

A Look Inside the Justice System

Classical Conversations homeschool students had a busy day at the courthouse!

Their visit began in the courtroom of Judge Stefanie C. Moon, who presides over the domestic violence division. From there, they toured the Susan J. Aramony Clothing Closet in the courthouse’s north wing. Managed by Marie Alvarez Ortiz, this donation-based boutique provides families and youth involved in the court system with professional attire for job interviews, community service, and special occasions.

The group then observed proceedings in juvenile delinquency court with Judge Elijah H. Williams before wrapping up their tour in the Lamar Warren Law Library. There, they heard from BSO Crime Lab expert Annie Williams, who explained how latent prints are used to help identify suspects, as well as Assistant Public Defender Ana Roditi and Felony Supervisor Gabriel Ermine, who shared insights into the role of public defenders and answered students’ questions.

An exciting day filled with learning, insight, and real-world exposure to the justice system!

by Sallie James — April 16, 2026 in Announcements

Special Guests Highlight Black Women Lawyers’ Installation Brunch

Florida Supreme Court Justice Renatha Francis and Olympia Duhart, Dean of Shepard Broad College of Law, were among the distinguished attendees at the Bernice Gaines Dorn Black Women Lawyers Association’s second annual installation brunch on April 11, 2026, at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina.

The event was a wonderful opportunity for judges, magistrates and lawyers to connect, build relationships, and catch up with colleagues and friends in the legal community.

The Bernice Gaines Dorn Black Women Lawyers Association continues to play an important role in fostering mentorship, leadership, and professional engagement within the legal community, while celebrating excellence and service across the profession.

by Sallie James — April 15, 2026 in Announcements

Driver License Clinic Delivers Real Results

The 17th Judicial Circuit’s Suspended Driver License Clinic this week was a resounding success!

Nearly 300 people registered in advance, with about 200 attending – and for many, it was a meaningful step forward. A total of 76 individuals had their driver licenses reinstated, replaced, or renewed on the spot.

The driving force behind the event? Providing participants the opportunity to have a judge review and adjust outstanding fines, helping them restore their licenses to good standing and get back on the road.

Special thanks to Brenda D. Forman and her dedicated team; Judges Kenneth A. Gottlieb and Jill K. Levy; as well as the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles; the Florida Department of Revenue, and all our community partners who made this impactful event possible.

by Sallie James — April 10, 2026 in Announcements