All Posts in "Circuit Court"

Ensuring Everyone Understands Their Day in Court

Behind every fair hearing is someone ensuring everyone is heard and understood. Our dedicated team of bilingual courthouse interpreters is always ready to step in when someone needs help understanding court proceedings.

Fluent in Spanish, Haitian Creole, and French, these professionals are essential in serving South Florida’s diverse population. For all other languages, the court relies on contracted interpreters to ensure nothing gets lost in translation.

Their work is vital to upholding justice and keeping courtrooms running smoothly.
Thank you to our interpreters for being the voice of clarity in the courtroom.

by — August 1, 2025 in Announcements
Strengthening the Bench and Bar at the 2025 Trial Advocacy Workshop

Judges Lauren M. Alperstein and Judge Christopher Wigand of the 17th Judicial Circuit shared their expertise at the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar Trial Advocacy Workshop, held July 23–27 at the JW Marriott Marquis in Miami.

Judge Alperstein served as a workshop leader, while Judge Wigand delivered a lecture on practical trial tips. The intensive program offered attendees the opportunity to sharpen their courtroom skills, work with expert witnesses, and receive one-on-one feedback as they prepared and presented a full family law case. Participants were paired with opposing counsel and mentored in small groups led by experienced judges, magistrates, and Board-Certified attorneys.

We’re proud to have judges who not only excel in the courtroom but are also deeply committed to advancing legal education and fostering excellence within the legal community.

by — July 28, 2025 in Announcements
A Salute to Service and Justice

Judge Edward H. Merrigan Jr., a highly decorated Major General in the U.S. Army, received a formal military sendoff during a retirement ceremony in Washington, D.C., complete with an honor guard, military bands, and heartfelt tributes. The ceremony was livestreamed on Facebook.

Now presiding in our Circuit Criminal division, Judge Merrigan founded the 17th’s Veterans Court in 2012, a specialized program helping veterans facing substance abuse or mental health challenges.

Major General Merrigan enlisted in the Army in 1994 and joined the Army Reserve in 1999, beginning his service as an International Law Officer with the 478th Civil Affairs Battalion in Perrine, FL. His distinguished career included a deployment to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom II.

During the Department of the Army and General Officer Retirement Ceremony, one speaker noted: “You represent the epitome of selfless service. Please accept our eternal thanks on behalf of a grateful nation.”

Thank you, Major General Merrigan, for your unwavering commitment to both country and community. Read our press release HERE. Watch the video HERE.


by — July 24, 2025 in Announcements
Hard Work and Resilience Inspire Us All!

Dependency Judge Stacey Schulman recently had the honor of congratulating graduates on stage at the 21st Annual Broward County Transitional Independent Living Graduation Celebration, held at Broward College. The event was put on by ChildNet and other associated agencies.

This June 26th event recognized youth in foster care graduating from middle school, high school, college, trade school, or earning their GED or associate degree. Judge Schulman, along with employees Ta’Ami Bajamour, Jessica Byczek, and Heather Abel from the 17th Judicial Circuit joined in celebrating their incredible achievements.

Congratulations to all the graduates! #17thjudteam

by — June 30, 2025 in Announcements
Honoring Our Outstanding Team Members

✨ For the second time this year, Court Administration celebrated employees reaching milestone anniversaries of five years or more with special recognition awards.

Trial Court Administrator Joe D’Amico honored 22 dedicated team members for their exemplary service to the 17th Judicial Circuit. Sixteen honorees were present for the ceremony, while six were recognized in absentia.

A special congratulations to Beth Ranalli, who received the “Shining Star” Award for exceptional service! 🌟

Joe plans to make this celebration a regular tradition to remind employees just how valued they are.

👏 Thank you for your years of hard work and commitment—you are the heart of our Circuit’s success!

Pictured left to right last row: Diana Sobel, Maureen Hoefner, Jaki Mullings, Matt Dreis, Marta Prieto, Sharon Alleyne, Robert Grieper, Beth Plotkin and Joe D’Amico.

Second row, left to right: Diane St. Amand Scott, Omar MacAnuff, Taiwo Akinkunmi, Paloma Sanchez, Samantha Scott, Rafael Ferrans and Jenelle Denson.

First row: Russell Edwards and Fausto Alvarez Ravelo. Not pictured: Sunil Nemade, Andre Simmons, Patricia Cantrell, Lucy Catena and Satmatee Misram. Beth Ranalli, winner of the Shining Star award, was also absent.

by — June 27, 2025 in Announcements
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