All Posts in "Circuit Court"

Judges Levenson and Gillespie Recognized at BCBA Gala for their Dedicated Service

Congratulations to Judges Jeffrey R. Levenson and Kenneth L. Gillespie, who were honored on June 21st at the Broward County Bar Association’s 2025 Gala. Judge Levenson received the Stephen A. Booher Award in recognition of his humanity, integrity and dedication to the Bench, Bar and community. Judge Kenneth L. Gillespie received the Executive Director’s Award in acknowledgement of his outstanding commitment, loyalty and service to the Bar and legal community. The 17th Judicial Circuit is extremely proud! Read our press release HERE.

by — June 25, 2025 in Announcements
Congratulations to the Florida Panthers!

The 17th Judicial Circuit celebrated the Florida Panthers second Stanley Cup win in a colorful show of support for this amazing team! Trial Court Administrator Joe D’Amico encouraged employees to celebrate the team’s huge victory by donning Panthers merch. And they did not disappoint! Among the fans? Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips and Judge Nina W. DiPietro. Go Panthers!

by — June 20, 2025 in Announcements
Jury Duty. Your Right. Your Responsibility.

One of the most important Constitutional rights we have as Americans is the right to a trial by jury—but that right only exists if people like YOU step up and serve.

When you’re called for jury duty, you’re not just answering a summons—you’re answering a call to civic responsibility.

✅ Jurors are randomly selected from the Florida Driver Licenses Database.
✅ You must be 18+ and a resident of Broward County.
✅ You only serve once per calendar year.
✅ Selection happens through a fair process called voir dire.

⚖️ Your voice matters. Your service counts.
Ignoring your Jury Summons could result in a $100 fine or Contempt of Court—but more importantly, it means missing your chance to help justice be served.

by — June 18, 2025 in Announcements
Compassion in Action

The 17th Circuit was proud to be part of the June 12th, 2025 Homeless Community Symposium in Hollywood.

Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips and Judge Florence Taylor Barner shared insights from Community Court—where low-level offenses are met with solutions like treatment and service, not jail.

Also representing the circuit was Judge Corey A. Cawthon, who presides in Hollywood Community Court. Judge Betsy Benson, who presides in Pompano Beach Community Court, was unable to attend. More than 100 attendees and service providers attended the event, focused on supporting the homeless population with dignity and care.

A powerful event highlighting real justice, rooted in care. #CommunityCourt #JusticeWithDignity #17thCircuit

by — June 12, 2025 in Announcements
A Visit to the Courthouse …

When you tour the courthouse you never know who you will meet! A Girl Scout troop on a recent tour got an impromptu lesson in civics from Broward State Attorney Harold F. Pryor and Chief Assistant Public Defender Tayron Lopez. They also met Judge Ari Abraham Porth in felony mental health and Judge Michael J. Orlando in Delinquency. A highlight of the visit? A visit inside a prisoner holding cell, which shined a light on the lack of privacy inmates experience. What a great way to learn. Thank you all for making this such a great experience!

by — June 9, 2025 in Announcements
Judge Elijah H. Williams Leads Thought-Provoking Session at 2024–25 Leadership Academy

Broward Circuit Judge Elijah H. Williams, delinquency chair for the 17th Judicial Circuit, taught at the 2024–25 Wm. Reece Smith Jr. Leadership Academy, held May 16–17 at the Westin Hotel in Fort Lauderdale. The two-day academy focused on “The Power of Curiosity, Vulnerability, and Finding Your Tribe,” and included building communication skills, promoting civility in the legal profession, understanding professionalism and disciplinary rules, and enhancing emotional intelligence.

by — June 6, 2025 in Announcements
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