Bridging Borders: 17th Circuit Hosts Delegation from Indonesia

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Bridging Borders: 17th Circuit Hosts Delegation from Indonesia

A contingent of Indonesian judicial delegates recently visited the 17th Judicial Circuit to learn about Florida’s family court system. They discussed The 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, Florida’s Child Welfare system, and general family court practices with Judge Jose Izquierdo, the Circuit’s Hague Convention representative.

The group also received a detailed overview of child custody and child support procedures. Judge Izquierdo shared his expertise on Florida’s approach to international child abduction cases.

Thank you to Judge Izquierdo for hosting the delegation and to attorney Ashley Bober for participating in the visit.

The visit took place on July 23, 2025.

by Sallie James — August 29, 2025 in Announcements

All Broward Courts Closed On Monday, Sept. 1, in Observance of Labor Day

👏 The 17th Judicial Circuit extends a heartfelt thank you to all our hardworking courthouse employees — from clerks and staff to our dedicated judges. Your commitment to justice and public service helps uphold the rule of law and ensure fair, efficient access to the courts.

We also salute every hardworking individual in our community — your contributions, big and small, help keep our society moving forward. 💼⚖️💙

Thank you for all you do! All Broward Courts will re-open on Tuesday, September 2nd.

#ThankYou #HardWorkMatters #CourtStrong #JusticeInAction #17thJudicialCircuit #RuleOfLaw #PublicService #Gratitude

by Sallie James — August 28, 2025 in Announcements

Official Sign Now Marks Community Court’s Downtown Home

After being displaced following the flooding at Fort Lauderdale City Hall, the Fort Lauderdale Community Court — now located at 18 NW First Ave. in downtown Fort Lauderdale — proudly displays new signage to welcome community members seeking services. The sign marks a new chapter for the court.

📸 Pictured: Presiding Judge Florence Taylor Barner — known affectionately as Judge Flo — who continues to lead the court in its mission to connect individuals with the resources they need. Her bailiff Leticia Johnson is on the right.

by Sallie James — August 14, 2025 in Announcements

Judge Barner Joins Launch of Rotary Connection Bus

The 17th Judicial Circuit’s Judge Florence Taylor Barner, who presides over Community Court, was on hand for the official launch of Rotary Connection on August 1. This first-of-its-kind free bus loop service helps individuals experiencing homelessness in Broward County access essential services and support.

The bus wrap was designed by 17-year-old Sam Danzig, a student at American Heritage High School and winner of the Rotary Bus Wrap Student Art Competition.

By removing transportation barriers, Rotary Connection helps people take steps toward stability, self-sufficiency—and hope. An amazing program that will help the county’s unhoused in an important way!

by Sallie James — August 4, 2025 in Announcements

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 Sallie James — August 1, 2025 in Announcements

Students Get a Firsthand Look at Justice in Action

Students from the “New Diversion: An Alternative for Youth” program, led by Community Reconstruction Inc., got a powerful behind-the-scenes look at the justice system during a recent visit to the courthouse. They met Judge Corey B. Friedman in First Appearance Court, Judge Elijah H. Williams in Delinquency, and heard from Public Defender Tayron Lopez from the PD’s felony division.

The students witnessed the realities of juvenile detention, and heard powerful messages about making positive choices. A visit they won’t soon forget. 💬👣✨.

by Sallie James — July 29, 2025 in Announcements