News & Information

Judge's CLE workshop focused on injunction hearings in Family Court

Judge Teri Dees addressed 22 local attorneys at a continuing legal education workshop on Nov. 4 at the Manatee County Judicial Center. Judge Dees, who presides over Circuit Family Division 4 and Early Childhood Court, spoke about injunction proceedings in Unified Family Court.

Amnesty Court gives Veterans a chance to get back on the road

Chief Judge Charles Roberts listens to a veteran during a session of Amnesty Court on November 5, 2022, at the 24th annual Stand Down Manatee event. The specialty court is a yearly component of Stand Down events, which links veterans who are homeless or on the verge of homelessness with agencies that can provide services. 

Purple ribbons spotlight awareness of domestic violence

Special events and activities across Florida and the country are putting a spotlight on Domestic Violence this month. People of all ages, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, or national origin are affected by domestic violence.

Applications accepted for court-appointed attorney registry

The Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court is accepting applications for the court-appointed attorney registry administered by the Justice Administration Commission for the 22/23 year that began July 1, 2022. Applications will be accepted through April 30, 2023.

Mediation Week highlights benefits of alternative dispute resolution

October 16-October 22 is Mediation Week and courts throughout Florida are recognizing and promoting this alternative to litigation to resolve disputes.

Twelfth Judicial Circuit mourns passing of retired Circuit Judge Rick DeFuria

It is with great sadness that the Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court announces that retired Judge Frederick “Rick” DeFuria passed away on Monday, September 12, 2022. He was 75 years old.

Judge DeFuria’s obituary can be read on the Herald-Tribune site.

Local JNC seeks applications for two judicial vacancies

The Twelfth Judicial Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission announces two vacancies in the circuit due to the resignation of Circuit Judge Kimberly C. Bonner and the elevation and resignation of DeSoto County Court Judge Danielle Brewer. Accordingly, the commission seeks applications for nomination of all persons who meet the eligibility requirements set forth in the Florida Constitution.

August marks Judge Bonner's last month on the bench

Circuit Judge Kimberly Carlton Bonner announced her retirement in May 2022. She was appointed to the Sarasota County Court bench in 2002 and was elevated to the Circuit Court bench in 2013. 

Court issues new AO as local COVID cases rise

Chief Judge Charles Roberts issued Administrative Order 2022-08.2, the Court’s sixth amended Order on Health and Safety Protocols Regarding COVID-19. The newest AO, which goes into effect Monday, August 1, 2022, modifies and amends AO 2021-15f.2.

New AO updates County Civil Case Management Protocols

The updated procedures create a new standing order and establishes filing requirements for Small Claims PIP cases