Court leaders are watching the weather

Court leaders are in communication with the leaders of all three counties in the circuit and are keeping an eye on the tropical disturbance in the western Gulf of Mexico. Our primary concern is always that our employees and the public, who are required to come to court as litigants and jurors, can get to court facilities safely.

Healing through Mediation

During a career in private practice, ADR Director Michelle Artman-Smith realized she found greater satisfaction in her work as an advocate for her clients when cases settled in mediation. The mediators were able to get agreements from some of her most high-conflict cases and her clients left mediations content with their decisions.

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Opportunity for MDs and DOs in Guardianship cases

Doctors of medicine (MDs) and doctors of osteopathic medicine (DOs) are a necessary component in Guardianship proceedings but the Twelfth Judicial Circuit does not have enough physicians to meet the growing need. We have an opportunity that offers physicians another outlet to care for their community by helping protect its most vulnerable citizens in court proceedings.

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Judge Legler learns to lead by example

Lawyering, it seems, is in Sarasota County Judge Kennedy Legler’s DNA: His grandfather and father both practiced in Ohio and Florida for over 30 years, and his dad still practices. “I had two great role models,” he said. “I wanted to be just like them, and I knew from an early age a career in law was in my future.”

Don't fall victim to this scam

Scammers are targeting people with open court cases and using public records to make the information real enough to make you believe it’s legitimate but it’s not. Please don’t fall for it!

Judge Stephen Walker honored with Outstanding Jurist Award

Judge Stephen Walker honored with Outstanding Jurist Award

Congratulations to Judge Stephen Walker! He was recently recognized with the Meenu T. Sasser Outstanding Jurist Award at The Florida Bar’s annual convention. The honor presented by the Young Lawyers Division of The Florida Bar is given to judges with a reputation for sound judicial decisions, an unblemished record of integrity as a lawyer and judge, and a willingness to assist young lawyers.

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Circuit gearing up for annual process server renewal period

The application period to become a certified process server in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit begins Monday, July 1, 2024. Applicants must complete the online application, provide the application fee and upload all necessary documents between July 1, 2024, and August 31, 2024, to be approved for the certification period of September 1, 2024-August 31, 2025.

Accolades, Awards & Achievements

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