5000 Role Models Explores the Courts

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5000 Role Models Explores the Courts

Students from Lauderdale Lakes Middle School, members of the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project, visited the Broward County Courthouse this week for an educational tour that spanned from the West Tower to the Criminal Wing, ending at the Lamar Warren Law Library.

Along the way, they observed court proceedings in the courtrooms of Judges Michael A. Robinson and Michael J. Orlando and had the opportunity to meet Judge Keathan B. Frink.

The students also learned about forensic science from Sanissa of the Broward Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab and gained insight into the justice system from Janelle B. Floyd, Community Outreach Coordinator with the Public Defender’s Office.

Thank you to all the judges, staff, and presenters who made this experience so meaningful for the students!

by Sallie James — October 24, 2025 in Announcements

Judicial Collaboration in Action

Representatives from the Seminole Tribal Court recently visited the Broward County Courthouse to observe hearings and tour the facility as part of the ongoing collaboration between the Seminole Tribal Court and the 17th Judicial Circuit.

Judge José Izquierdo continues to partner with the Seminole Tribal Court on cases involving the Indian Child Welfare Act. Once a month, he presides over these cases in coordination with the Tribal Court at the Seminole Reservation.

During their visit, the representatives met with Judge Hope Tieman Bristol to learn about Dependency Drug Court, Judge Stacey Schulman to discuss HOPE Court, and Judge Stacy Ross to explore RISE Court. An IT Team from the Hollywood Reservation also accompanied the group to observe video configurations used by the 17th Judicial Circuit for Zoom hearings, among other things.

First row: Associate Judge Mia Jones, fourth from right; Chief Judge Mary Tigertail, center; Second Row: Chief Justice Joe Frank, second from right; Director Moses Osceola, third from right.

Back row: left to right: Judge Jose Izquierdo, Judge Stacey Schulman, Judge Stacy Ross and Judge Hope Tieman Bristol.

by Sallie James — October 23, 2025 in Announcements

Circuit Judge Ari Porth Receives Prestigious Archbishop McCarthy Award

The 17th Judicial Circuit congratulates Judge Ari Abraham Porth on being named recipient of the Archbishop Edward A. McCarthy Annual Award, recognizing members of the legal community who exemplify the moral principles of Saint Thomas More.

Judge Porth, who presides over the Felony Mental Health Court, was honored by the St. Thomas More Society of South Florida at the Red Mass & Dinner on October 15, 2025.

Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips praised Judge Porth as “a shining star and so very deserving of the award,” noting his dedication to the Mental Health Court and Task Force.

Judge Porth said, “In Courtroom 7810, we are pursuing justice every day and persistently running after it as we engage with some of society’s most vulnerable.”

We are fortunate to have you on our team! Read our press release HERE.

by Sallie James — October 22, 2025 in Announcements

Judge Ross and Heather Abel Spotlight RISE Court’s Life-Changing Work at Conference

Judge Stacy Ross and Court Program Specialist Heather Abel, along with Daniela Deas of Survivors HOPE recently presented at the Just Training Conference in Orlando, highlighting the 17th Judicial Circuit’s RISE Court — Restoring Independence, Strength & Empowerment.

This specialized treatment court focuses on meeting the unique needs of child survivors of commercial sex trafficking within both the dependency and delinquency systems. The trio shared an overview of the prevalence of child sex trafficking and emphasized the urgent need for stronger strategies and tools to effectively serve these vulnerable youth.

They also underscored the importance of interagency collaboration and ensuring that the survivor’s voice remains at the center of every decision. Their work is vital in creating a justice system that not only protects children but helps them heal, rebuild, and thrive.

by Sallie James — October 21, 2025 in Announcements

Judge Alperstein Participates in Domestic Violence Law Webinar

In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Judge Lauren M. Alperstein, Family Chairperson for the 17th Judicial Circuit, participated in the webinar “The Law of Protection: Domestic Violence and Interpersonal Injunctions” held on Thursday, October 9, from 12–1 PM EST.

This program provided an overview of Florida’s domestic violence laws, focusing on interpersonal injunctions as both protective measures and legal remedies. Participants explored the statutory framework under Chapter 741, Florida Statutes, and related provisions governing injunctions for protection against domestic, dating, repeat, sexual, and stalking violence.

The event featured a roundtable discussion with Board Certified Attorneys Christopher Rumbold and Carolyn Ware, with a special appearance by Judge Alperstein, who shared her judicial perspective on these vital issues.

We’re fortunate to have someone with Judge Alperstein’s expertise and dedication serving in our circuit, guiding both the community and the legal profession on these critical issues.

#DomesticViolence

by Sallie James — October 9, 2025 in Announcements

A Life Lesson in Civics

Students from PSG Homeschool got an inside look at the justice system during an wide-ranging visit to the courthouse.

They met Judge Nina W. Di Pietro (County Civil) and Judge Lorena V. Mastrarrigo (Circuit Criminal), explored forensics with Tonya Woytek from the Broward Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab, and learned about the Public Defender’s Office from Janelle Floyd, community outreach coordinator.

The students asked great questions, played interactive games, and discovered what it’s really like to work in the legal system. 👩‍⚖️🔍👨‍⚖️

by Sallie James — October 7, 2025 in Announcements