ABOTA Recognizes Two Judges with Top Awards for Advancing Justice

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ABOTA Recognizes Two Judges with Top Awards for Advancing Justice

The 17^th Judicial Circuit Court is pleased to announce that the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) Fort Laudedale chapter has named Judge Fabienne E. Fahnestock “Jurist of the Year 2025.” ABOTA presented Judge Jeffrey R. Levenson its President’s Award. Judge Fahnestock was chosen by the membership of the American Board of Trial Advocates, Fort Lauderdale Chapter, as our Jurist of the Year for numerous reasons. Judge Fahnestock upholds the standards of civility and professionalism in her courtroom not only in the way she expects the attorneys to act but also through her judicial demeanor. The President’s Award recognizes extraordinary contributions and dedication to furthering the mission of ABOTA. Congratulations! Read our press release HERE.

by Sallie James — January 23, 2026 in Announcements

17th Judicial Circuit Court to Hold Investiture of Judge Pascale Achille

The 17th Judicial Circuit Court is pleased to announce the investiture of Circuit Court Judge Pascale Achille. The ceremony will be held at 1:30 p.m. on February 13 in Courtroom 17150. The investiture formally marks Judge Achille’s entrance into judicial office and is an important tradition recognizing service to the court and the community.

by Sallie James — January 22, 2026 in Announcements

All Courthouses Closed on Monday, Jan. 19th, in Observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday.

All courthouses in the 17th Judicial Circuit will be closed on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Courthouse closures include the main courthouse in Fort Lauderdale, the South Regional Courthouse in Hollywood, the North Regional Courthouse in Deerfield Beach and the West Regional Courthouse in Plantation. Regular courthouse hours will resume on Tuesday.

by Sallie James — January 12, 2026 in Announcements

Somerset Academy Students Get an Inside Look at Juvenile and Drug Court

High school students from Somerset Academy in Pembroke Pines got a real-world look at the justice system this week during a courthouse tour that included juvenile court and drug court.

Students met with Judges Elijah H. Williams and Michael Davis and Drug Court Manager Russell Edwards, learned how Narcan can save lives during an overdose, and heard powerful, firsthand stories of recovery from drug court peer counselors who have overcome addiction. They also posed for photos with Broward State Attorney Harold F. Pryor and discussed how choices have consequences with Janelle Floyd, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Broward Public Defender.

The experience offered an unfiltered view of the courts, from observing teens brought into the courtroom in restraints to seeing how judges use Zoom to connect with participants who cannot attend in person.

by Sallie James — January 7, 2026 in Announcements

Judge Pascale Achille Sworn In to the 17th Judicial Circuit

Welcome Judge Pascale Achille, who was sworn in today by Judge Fabienne E. Fahnestock! Judge Achille is assigned to Division 33, Family.

Judge Achille brings a wealth of experience to the bench, having served for 12 years as an Assistant State Attorney with the Broward State Attorney’s Office, including as a member of the Homicide Trial Unit since 2018. She was previously assigned to the Sexual Battery and Career Criminal Units. Earlier in her career, she spent eight years as a civil attorney handling federal and state matters, drafting appellate briefs, and arguing before the Second and Fifth District Courts of Appeal. Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Judge Achille to the bench on Dec. 8, 2025 to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Judge Gary M. Farmer, Jr.

We are excited to have you on our team. The 17th Judicial Circuit proudly welcomes you, Judge Achille!

by Sallie James — December 30, 2025 in Announcements

Broward Courts Closed in Observance of New Year’s Day

All Broward courts will be closed on Thursday, January 1, 2026, in observance of New Year’s Day. During this time, court services and operations will be unavailable.

Courts will reopen at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, January 2, and resume normal business hours.

The 17th Judicial Circuit wishes you a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year, and thanks you for your continued trust and cooperation as we begin 2026.

by Sallie James — December 29, 2025 in Announcements