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Judge Diana Moreland set to helm circuit in July

As Judge Roberts finishes his final few months helming the Twelfth Judicial Circuit before his summer retirement, a new judge is waiting in the wings to assume the role of chief judge. Judge Diana L. Moreland was elected by the local judiciary to lead the circuit, effective July 1, 2023.

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Before you lead, grow yourself

Congratulations to DUI Court Manager Mollie Cool on her February 8th graduation from the Academy of Leadership Excellence. This year-long training combines group learning and self-study options to explore and develop key leadership skills.

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Judge Williams honored as 'trailblazer' by professional organization

At a luncheon on January 26, 2023, students from area high schools, court staff, judges and members of the legal community learned about the five trailblazing lawyers showcased in The Florida Bar’s Path to Unity Project. Then Judge Charles Williams, the program's master of ceremonies, was surprised with a portrait of his own.

Bar Associations honor two 'pathfinders in the law'

Circuit Judge Rochelle Curley and Senior Judge Janette Dunnigan (Ret.) were honored as “Pathfinders in the Law” on January 19. The sitting judge and senior judge received recognition for their work as jurists and trailblazers for other professional women. The event coincided with The Florida Bar’s Path to Unity Project.

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JNC seeks applications for vacancy in Sarasota County Court

The Twelfth Judicial Circuit Judicial Nominating Committee announces a vacancy in the Sarasota County Court due to the elevation and resignation of Judge Dana Moss. Accordingly, the Judicial Nominating Commission seeks applications for nomination from all persons who meet the eligibility requirements set forth in the Florida Constitution.

Accolades, Awards & Achievements

News, images of judges on & off the bench

Robe comes full circle

October 21, 2025

Judge Teri Dees is giving new life to a robe that belonged to a former judge, mentor and family friend.

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Judge swears in new attorney

September 29, 2025

Judge Susan Maulucci administered the Oath of Attorney to new staff attorney.

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Judges recognized for their work on juvenile bench

September 22, 2025

Judges Susan Maulucci and Gilbert A. Smith, Jr. were recognized by local child welfare officials at the recent Dependency Court Summitt in Orlando.

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‘Listen more, speak less’

September 5, 2025

Sarasota County Judge David Denkin has retired after two decades on the bench. He was instrumental in establishing Sarasota's DUI Court, a problem-solving court for repeat DUI offenders. Read the article published in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune about his “legacy of second chances”.

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Chief Judge honored with 2025 Chief Justice Award for Judicial Excellence

August 4, 2025

Twelfth Judicial Circuit Chief Judge Diana Moreland was presented with the Florida Supreme Court’s 2025 Chief Justice Award for Judicial Excellence, honoring her service to and leadership within Florida’s judicial branch.

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