All Posts in "Unified Family Court"

17th Judicial Circuit Launches New Family Court Services Program

A new Family Court Services (FCS) program designed to connect individuals involved in high-conflict family litigation with appropriate therapeutic resources has served more than 50 families since its launch in January. The county-funded program also provides case tracking to ensure compliance with court orders. Judge Lauren M. Alperstein was instrumental in developing the program, which was created to improve conflict resolution and provide support services to families with particular sensitivity to the needs of children.

A kickoff event is planned for noon on March 20th in Courtroom #WW9165.

Meet the Family Court Services team, pictured left to right: Diane St. Amand-Scott, Family Court Services Manager; Guilia D’Agostino, Administrative Assistant; Andres Gironza, Judicial Support Investigator; and Ahnia Smith, Judicial Navigator.

by — March 3, 2026 in Announcements
A Walk Along the River

Eighteen Court Administration employees stepped away from their desks this week for a 15-minute group walk along the river as part of a health and wellness initiative designed to “get to know your neighbor” while promoting both mental and physical well-being.

The idea, developed by the Health and Wellness Committee, encourages employees to get out of their chairs and get moving. The Riverwalk stroll also complements Court Administration’s ongoing step challenge.

With beautiful weather and great company, a great time was had by all. Join us next time!

by — February 26, 2026 in Announcements
Judge Lauren M. Alperstein Named 2026 Chief Judge Award for Excellence Recipient

Congratulations to Judge Lauren M. Alperstein, who has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the Chief Judge Award for Excellence in recognition of her dedication, leadership, innovation, and ongoing commitment to strengthening the 17th Judicial Circuit.

“You exemplify the very spirit of this award through your unwavering dedication to the administration of justice, visionary leadership on the Unified Family Court bench and your meaningful contributions to the families and communities of Broward County,” Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips wrote in a letter announcing the award. “As Chair of the Unified Family Division, Judge Alperstein, you are an extraordinary advocate for both the family bench and the families the courts serve.”

One of the most recent examples of Judge Alperstein’s visionary leadership is the Circuit’s new Family Court Services program, which ensures comprehensive support for families navigating the court system and facilitates access to services that foster stability, safety, and resolution. Judge Alperstein also consistently keeps the family bench informed of legal developments and best practices through updates on changes in the law, emerging issues and best practices.

“You have cultivated a bench that is aligned in purpose, consistent in procedure and committed to excellence,” Judge Phillips wrote. “Thank you for your innovation, dedication and exceptional services to the Unified Family Court and community. Judge Lauren Alperstein, you are profoundly deserving of the 17th Judicial Circuit Chief Judge Award for Excellence.”

#rockstar

by — February 19, 2026 in Announcements
Pine Ridge Students Discover How the Courts Work

Students from Pine Ridge Education Center in Davie recently gained an inside look at the justice system, learning about Judge Michael Davis’ Drug Court and observing how juvenile court operates during a visit to Judge Elijah H. Williams’ courtroom.

The students also heard firsthand about the role of a prosecutor from Broward State Attorney Harold F. Pryor, and learned about the work of the Public Defender’s Office from Tayron Lopez, head of the felony division, along with two assistant public defenders.

A captivating presentation on ballistics and firearms by Broward Sheriff’s Office firearms expert  Hery Figueroa transfixed the students with his presentation on guns, bullets and how science is used to figure out if a specific weapon was used in a crime,

Thank you to all the judges, attorneys, law enforcement professionals, and mentors who helped make this day both meaningful and memorable for these students. #teamwork #17thJudTeam

by — February 11, 2026 in Court Updates
Celebrating Court Reporting & Captioning Week 2026

It’s 2026 Court Reporting & Captioning Week, and the 17th Judicial Circuit is proud to recognize the vital work done every day—often behind the scenes—by our outstanding digital court reporters. Their dedication and precision ensure an accurate record of court proceedings and help keep the business of the courts running smoothly.

A big thank-you to our incredible team of digital court reporters for their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to justice.

#PeaceLoveSteno

by — February 10, 2026 in Announcements
Celebrating Excellence: Honoring the Black Judiciary of the 17th Judicial Circuit

Judges and magistrates from the 17th Judicial Circuit—joined by a large contingent of attorneys and community partners—came together to celebrate the Circuit’s Black judiciary during a Black History Month event on Feb. 5th at Nova Southeastern University’s Shepard Broad College of Law in Davie.

The program featured powerful remarks from Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips, Florida Bar President Rosalyn Sia Baker-Barnes, and Broward Bar Association Executive Director Braulio Rosa. The celebration concluded on a high note with a spirited round of Judicial Jeopardy, as judges competed for top honors and bragging rights.

The event highlighted the profound contributions of our Black judges and the strength, leadership, and perspective they bring to our judiciary.

by — February 6, 2026 in Announcements
Facebook
Twitter
YouTube
LinkedIn
Instagram