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17th Judicial Circuit Launches New Family Court Services Program

A new Family Court Services (FCS) program designed to connect individuals involved in high-conflict family litigation with appropriate therapeutic resources has served more than 50 families since its launch in January. The county-funded program also provides case tracking to ensure compliance with court orders. Judge Lauren M. Alperstein was instrumental in developing the program, which was created to improve conflict resolution and provide support services to families with particular sensitivity to the needs of children.

A kickoff event is planned for noon on March 20th in Courtroom #WW9165.

Meet the Family Court Services team, pictured left to right: Diane St. Amand-Scott, Family Court Services Manager; Guilia D’Agostino, Administrative Assistant; Andres Gironza, Judicial Support Investigator; and Ahnia Smith, Judicial Navigator.

by — March 3, 2026 in Announcements
A Walk Along the River

Eighteen Court Administration employees stepped away from their desks this week for a 15-minute group walk along the river as part of a health and wellness initiative designed to “get to know your neighbor” while promoting both mental and physical well-being.

The idea, developed by the Health and Wellness Committee, encourages employees to get out of their chairs and get moving. The Riverwalk stroll also complements Court Administration’s ongoing step challenge.

With beautiful weather and great company, a great time was had by all. Join us next time!

by — February 26, 2026 in Announcements
A Visit to Court Gives Students a New Perspective on Justice

Students from Charles W. Flanagan High School in Pembroke Pines got an inside look at how the justice system works during a recent courthouse tour. Their visit began in first appearance court, where they observed proceedings in Judge Corey B. Friedman’s courtroom.

The students then headed to the north wing to watch arraignments before Judge Lorena V. Mastrarrigo. After court concluded, Judge Mastrarrigo spent time speaking with the students about the law and the importance of choosing friends wisely. Several students even had the chance to try on her black judicial robe and sit on the bench to experience what it feels like to be a judge.

The tour also included meeting Harold F. Pryor, Broward State Attorney; a presentation by forensic scientist Jaylin Hernandez from the Broward Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab; and a conversation with Janelle Floyd, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Broward Public Defender’s Office.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this courthouse tour such a meaningful and impactful experience for these students!

by — February 25, 2026 in Announcements
Judge Lauren M. Alperstein Named 2026 Chief Judge Award for Excellence Recipient

Congratulations to Judge Lauren M. Alperstein, who has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the Chief Judge Award for Excellence in recognition of her dedication, leadership, innovation, and ongoing commitment to strengthening the 17th Judicial Circuit.

“You exemplify the very spirit of this award through your unwavering dedication to the administration of justice, visionary leadership on the Unified Family Court bench and your meaningful contributions to the families and communities of Broward County,” Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips wrote in a letter announcing the award. “As Chair of the Unified Family Division, Judge Alperstein, you are an extraordinary advocate for both the family bench and the families the courts serve.”

One of the most recent examples of Judge Alperstein’s visionary leadership is the Circuit’s new Family Court Services program, which ensures comprehensive support for families navigating the court system and facilitates access to services that foster stability, safety, and resolution. Judge Alperstein also consistently keeps the family bench informed of legal developments and best practices through updates on changes in the law, emerging issues and best practices.

“You have cultivated a bench that is aligned in purpose, consistent in procedure and committed to excellence,” Judge Phillips wrote. “Thank you for your innovation, dedication and exceptional services to the Unified Family Court and community. Judge Lauren Alperstein, you are profoundly deserving of the 17th Judicial Circuit Chief Judge Award for Excellence.”

#rockstar

by — February 19, 2026 in Announcements
A Morning in the Courthouse

Students from Piney Grove Academy in Lauderdale Lakes got a firsthand look at the inner workings of the justice system this week. They observed a murder trial in Judge Andrew L. Siegel’s courtroom, witnessed the fast-paced intensity of Judge Florence Taylor Barner’s small claims court, and learned about the role of the Public Defender’s Office from Chief Assistant Public Defender John James.

The students also heard what a day in the life of a digital court reporter looks like from Court Reporter Donald Brown and met a latent fingerprint analyst from the Broward Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab.

It was a busy, fast-moving morning filled with questions, observation, and learning, giving students valuable insight into what truly happens inside a courthouse. #CivicEducation

by — February 18, 2026 in Announcements
Welcome to the Bench, Judge Achille!

Judge Pascale Achille, the newest judge in the 17th Judicial Circuit, was formally welcomed on Friday during a traditional investiture ceremony held before a courtroom filled with family, colleagues, and well-wishers.

Judge Achille is assigned to the Circuit’s Family Division and brings a wealth of experience to the bench. She previously served for 12 years as an Assistant State Attorney with the Broward State Attorney’s Office, including membership in the Homicide Trial Unit since 2018, and earlier assignments in the Sexual Battery and Career Criminal units. Before her prosecutorial career, Judge Achille spent eight years as a civil attorney handling federal and state matters, drafting appellate briefs, and arguing cases before the Second and Fifth District Courts of Appeal.

Congratulations, Judge Achille—we are thrilled to have you on our team.

by — February 13, 2026 in Announcements
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