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

County Court Judge Florence Taylor Barner recently visited Lorah Park Elementary in the historic Brownsville neighborhood of Miami for Career Day. Students got the unique opportunity to observe virtual court, then have one-on-one time with Judge Barner in small groups to discuss civics, the Constitution, and how to become a judge. Afterwards, Judge Barner fielded questions from the class.

It was a day of fun and learning for a group of special needs adults from the Friendship Circle of Fort Lauderdale who observed some courtroom action, learned about courtroom protocols, met two judges, navigated the sprawling courthouse and even chatted with some college interns. The goal of the Friendship Circle program is to provide learning experiences that teach participants new life skills that will help them more easily navigate the world. Many thanks to Judges Mindy Brown, Michele Towbin Singer and Kenneth A. Gottlieb for making this visit so memorable!