Broward Judges at Work at the 2025 County Court Judges Conference

The 2025 Conference of County Court Judges of Florida is underway, and our County Court judges from the 17th Judicial Circuit are fully engaged!

With insightful sessions led by Florida Supreme Court Justices Jamie R. Grosshans and John D. Couriel, as well as contributions from respected judges across the state, this week is proving to be an invaluable opportunity to grow, connect, and sharpen skills.

From reviewing the latest legislative updates to exploring best practices in courtroom management, our judges are committed to staying informed and upholding the highest standards of justice. The conference in Bonita Springs, FL runs July 8-10th.

Building a Stronger Judiciary

Learning is a constant in the judicial profession, and this week, County Court Judges from the 17th Judicial Circuit are attending the Conference of County Court Judges of Florida in Bonita Springs. The conference provides continuing judicial education, fosters collaboration, and supports efforts to improve the administration of justice across the state.

Ongoing training helps judges stay current with judicial canons and ethical standards, reinforcing public trust in the courts and upholding the integrity of the judiciary. Kudos to our judges for their commitment to professional excellence and ethical leadership.

Investing in Community Solutions to End Homelessness

County Court Judge Florence Taylor Barner and the dedicated team from Pompano Beach Community Court traveled to Washington, D.C., to join leaders from across the nation at the 2025 National Conference on Ending Homelessness, held June 30–July 2.

They return with new tools, strategies, and resources to enhance local efforts and better serve those experiencing homelessness in our community. The 17th Judicial Circuit is proud of their continued commitment to compassion, innovation, and public service. #17thjudteam

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.

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!

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.

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