Eleven young ladies from Girl Scout Troop 10115 visited the central courthouse last week, to take a tour, observe court, and have one-on-one time with a judge. Clerk of Courts Brenda Forman greeted the group with an overview of the role her office plays in the court system. After touring various courtrooms, and the jury room, the group went to Judge Tim Bailey’s courtroom for a hearing and to talk with the judge. The 5th grade scouts were there to learn about the government, in general, and the 8th grade scouts were there to earn their mediation badges.

Today, August 13, marks the first docket of the circuit’s new specialized court program, RISE, which stands for Restoring Independence, Strength and Empowerment. This specialized sub-division within the juvenile dependency and delinquency divisions will address the unique and special needs of children known or suspected of being a victim of human trafficking.

Last month, a kick-off event was held in the central courthouse, to answer questions from the public and participating agencies. With the support of many organizations, and the community, RISE Court will help our most vulnerable and exploited youth.

Last week, many of the Seventeenth’s circuit judges were away, attending the annual Florida Conference of Circuit Judges. The yearly gathering offers training and educational opportunities to circuit judges across the state.

To learn more about Florida’s State Courts, watch the presentation below.

Circuit Judge Dan Casey had his investiture ceremony on Friday, August 2, 2019. The legal veteran of 36 years, practicing in both the public and private sectors, was sworn in by Chief Judge Jack Tuter and robed by his family. Judge Casey took the bench in January and serves in the Circuit Criminal division.

Congratulations Judge Casey!

Court Bailiff Roger DeHart is getting ready for his second U.S. coastline walk, this time in California, to help raise awareness of human trafficking. Beginning next week, this “No More Miles” walk begins at the Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco and will end at the University of California, San Diego. Roger started his non-profit charity, First S.T.O.P (Saving Teens and Others from Predators) to help bring more awareness to the world-wide problem of human trafficking, and planning and executing the hundreds of miles “No More Miles” walks is how he’s doing it. Last year, he walked from the steps of the Broward County Courthouse in Fort Lauderdale to the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., logging over 1,000 miles for the cause.

His many supporters (co-workers and members of the public alike) joined together for a send-off ceremony a few weeks ago in the courthouse.

Magistrate Phil Schlissel retired last week, after serving more than 30 years in the court system! He most recently served the judiciary in the Drug Court, Mental Health Court and Foreclosure court divisions.

Congratulations on your retirement!