Pastel fairy lights twinkle in Administrative Assistant Samantha Scott’s office, bathing the walls in a soft pink glow. In one corner, a captioned drawing proclaims, “Above All Be Kind.” Adjacent is another that reads, “One kind word can change someone’s entire day.” Welcome to the safe space Samantha has created in Mediation & Arbitration, a calming refuge where she and her colleagues can de-stress with candy, coffee or conversation after a difficult case. Kudos to Samantha for her proactive approach to mental health. She exemplifies the saying “sharing IS caring.”

The contingent of 17 visitors from Joshua’s Path Disability Services of Goodman JFS had plenty of tough questions for Judges Ari Abraham Porth and Stacy Ross at the conclusion of a recent courthouse tour. Here is a sampling of what the group asked: Has anyone ever tried escaping from a courtroom? Has anyone ever used spoons to escape from jail? Define “Baker Act,” what is the age range of the inmates in the county jail, how do probation officers know if someone tries to remove an ankle monitor and is there a secret code word for an unauthorized weapon inside the courthouse.  Both judges responded with candor and humor. The visit kept everyone on their toes. Most importantly, a good time was had by all.

We are delighted to announce that the Supreme Court of Florida has appointed two of our own to the Florida Courts Technology Commission (FCTC): Circuit Judge Martin Bidwill and Court Technology Officer Sunil Nemade will both serve on the FCTC through June 30, 2027. Judge Bidwill has been designated as Chair of the Commission, which oversees, manages and directs the development and use of technology within the judicial branch. Congratulations to you both!

Say “hello!” to Chief Judge Jack Tuter, the administrative officer of the 17th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida. The judge acts as a liaison between the Circuit and the Chief Justice of the Florida Supreme Court. Judge Tuter is a problem solver whose daily duties include identifying policies and procedures that ensure the efficiency of the court system for everyone. Interesting facts: Judge Tuter is a devoted Oklahoma Sooners fan, as evidenced by the proud display of sports memorabilia in his office. He also served two years as the Director of Florida’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms before his appointment to the bench in Dec. 2005 by Gov. Jeb Bush. And when he’s working, rest assured, his bailiff Rod Ridgewell is never far away.