Community Court Judges Honored as Graduates Celebrate New Beginnings

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Community Court Judges Honored as Graduates Celebrate New Beginnings

The City of Pompano Beach honored the judges of Community Court this week with a special celebration that included a formal cap-and-gown graduation for more than a dozen previously unhoused individuals who successfully completed the program with the support of these specialized courts.

In attendance were retired Chief Judge Jack Tuter; Judge Florence Taylor Barner, who presides over Fort Lauderdale Community Court; Judge Betsy Benson, who has served in Pompano Beach Community Court since its inception in October 2022; and Judge Kathleen E. Angione, who will succeed Judge Benson in Pompano Beach Community Court. Also present was Judge John “Jay” Hurley. Fort Lauderdale Community Court was established in 2019.

Community Courts handle low-level misdemeanor cases and municipal ordinance violations by offering innovative alternatives such as community service, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment. The program was established under Chief Judge Tuter to help individuals experiencing homelessness connect with services and achieve stability.

Also in attendance were Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony; Broward Clerk of Courts Brenda Forman; members of the Pompano Beach City Commission; and numerous community service providers who help make these successes possible.

by Sallie James — January 16, 2026 in Announcements

All Courthouses Closed on Monday, Jan. 19th, in Observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday.

All courthouses in the 17th Judicial Circuit will be closed on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Courthouse closures include the main courthouse in Fort Lauderdale, the South Regional Courthouse in Hollywood, the North Regional Courthouse in Deerfield Beach and the West Regional Courthouse in Plantation. Regular courthouse hours will resume on Tuesday.

by Sallie James — January 12, 2026 in Announcements

Don’t Become a Victim: Hang Up!

Scammers claiming to be law enforcement officers are contacting relatives of recent arrestees and demanding money be sent electronically for bail, bond, an ankle monitor or diversion programs. Don’t fall for it. Hang up immediately. The Broward Sheriff’s Office will never request money over the phone through Zelle, Cash App, Venmo, gift cards or any other service. If someone demands immediate payment, it is a scam. If you live in a BSO jurisdiction and believe you are the victim of a similar scam, call BSO’s non-emergency number at 954-764-HELP (4357). Read BSO’s press release HERE.

by Sallie James — January 9, 2026 in Announcements

Somerset Academy Students Get an Inside Look at Juvenile and Drug Court

High school students from Somerset Academy in Pembroke Pines got a real-world look at the justice system this week during a courthouse tour that included juvenile court and drug court.

Students met with Judges Elijah H. Williams and Michael Davis and Drug Court Manager Russell Edwards, learned how Narcan can save lives during an overdose, and heard powerful, firsthand stories of recovery from drug court peer counselors who have overcome addiction. They also posed for photos with Broward State Attorney Harold F. Pryor and discussed how choices have consequences with Janelle Floyd, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Broward Public Defender.

The experience offered an unfiltered view of the courts, from observing teens brought into the courtroom in restraints to seeing how judges use Zoom to connect with participants who cannot attend in person.

by Sallie James — January 7, 2026 in Announcements

Judge Pascale Achille Sworn In to the 17th Judicial Circuit

Welcome Judge Pascale Achille, who was sworn in today by Judge Fabienne E. Fahnestock! Judge Achille is assigned to Division 33, Family.

Judge Achille brings a wealth of experience to the bench, having served for 12 years as an Assistant State Attorney with the Broward State Attorney’s Office, including as a member of the Homicide Trial Unit since 2018. She was previously assigned to the Sexual Battery and Career Criminal Units. Earlier in her career, she spent eight years as a civil attorney handling federal and state matters, drafting appellate briefs, and arguing before the Second and Fifth District Courts of Appeal. Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Judge Achille to the bench on Dec. 8, 2025 to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Judge Gary M. Farmer, Jr.

We are excited to have you on our team. The 17th Judicial Circuit proudly welcomes you, Judge Achille!

by Sallie James — December 30, 2025 in Announcements

Broward Courts Closed in Observance of New Year’s Day

All Broward courts will be closed on Thursday, January 1, 2026, in observance of New Year’s Day. During this time, court services and operations will be unavailable.

Courts will reopen at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, January 2, and resume normal business hours.

The 17th Judicial Circuit wishes you a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year, and thanks you for your continued trust and cooperation as we begin 2026.

by Sallie James — December 29, 2025 in Announcements