All Posts in "17th Judicial Circuit"

Eighth Graders Get a Front-Row Seat to Justice at the Broward County Courthouse

Eighth-grade students from Nativity Catholic School in Hollywood recently visited the Broward County Courthouse for an immersive, hands-on learning experience.

The students toured the courthouse, visited the law library, and observed first-appearance court hearings, where they learned how judges determine bail. They met Circuit Court Judges Lorena V. Mastrarrigo, Ari Abraham Porth, and Elijah H. Williams, along with County Court Judge Corey B. Friedman, who shared insights into their roles on the bench.

Students also heard from two full-time courthouse interpreters and learned what it takes to translate proceedings simultaneously. The students heard presentations by the Broward Sheriff Office Crime Lab’s latent prints expert Mayxis Rodriguez-Pena and ballistics expert William Ruiz Fontane, offering a real-world look at forensic science. Janelle Floyd, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Broward Public Defender’s Office, explained what the Public Defender’s Office does to represent the indigent.

The experience brought students face-to-face with the justice system and the realities of crime, punishment, and public service.

by — January 21, 2026 in Announcements
Judiciary Gathers Sunday at Landmark Church to Honor Life and Legacy of MLK Jr.

A dozen judges and magistrates from the 17th Judicial Circuit Court gathered Sunday at the iconic New Mount Olive Baptist Church in Fort Lauderdale to pay tribute and honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The memorial celebration featured inspiring speeches, video tributes, and powerful choral performances by the church’s male chorus. The keynote address was delivered by Lucien Metellus Jr., 37th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Representing the 17th Circuit, Judge Michael A. Robinson and Judge Keathan Frink also shared remarks. The event was organized by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Zeta Alpha Lambda Chapter, and was also attended by Miami-Dade Circuit Court Judge Daryl Trawick, President of the BBL Chapter.

by — January 19, 2026 in Announcements
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 — 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 — 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 — 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 — January 7, 2026 in Announcements
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