Gwen S. Cherry Black Women Lawyers Association News

Robert H. Fernandez (vice chairman)

8440 Grand Canal Drive

Miami, FL 33144

Office Tel.: 305-215-2264

Scott M. Dimond

Dimond Kaplan & Rothstein, P.A

Offices at Grand Bay Plaza

2665 South Bayshore Dr. PH 2B

Miami, FL 33133

Office Tel.: 305-374-1920

Fax: 305-374-1961

Daniel S. Fridman

Fridman Fels & Soto, PLLC

2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 750

Coral Gables, FL 33134

Office Tel.: 305-569-7720

dfridman@ffslawfirm.com

Jorge A. Mestre

Rivero Mestre, LLP

2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd. Suite 1000

Miami, FL 33134

Office Tel: 305-445-2500

Fax: 305-445-2505

Hayden P. O’Byrne

United States Attorney’s Office, SDFL

99 NE 4th St.,

Miami, FL 33132

Office: 305-961-9447

Fax: 305-530-7679

haydenjnc@gmail.com

Robert R. Pardo

Robert R. Pardo, P.A.

7700 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 512

Miami, FL 33156

Office: Tel.: 305-596-7794

Fax: 305-596-5854

Miranda Lundeen Soto

Shutts & Bowen LLP

200 South Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 4100

Miami, Florida 33131

Office Tel.: 305-347-7326

Fax: 305-347-7985

Public Notice: Appointment of Federal Public Defender, Middle District of Florida(link is external) (PDF)

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Voting Rights Restoration Attorney Volunteer Sign-up

Nakia Ruffin — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 03:05:43 GMT

Please register here.

Florida Supreme Court JNC Seeks Applicants for Florida Supreme Court Justice Vacancies

Nakia Ruffin — Sat, 30 Nov 2019 01:35:35 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 26, 2019
CONTACT: Daniel E. Nordby, Chair; DNordby@shutts.com
Florida Supreme Court Judicial Nominating Commission
TELEPHONE: 850-241-1725

The Florida Supreme Court Judicial Nominating Commission is accepting applications to fill the vacancies on the Florida Supreme Court created by the resignations of Justice Barbara Lagoa and Justice Robert Luck to assume federal judicial office. Based on the Florida Supreme Court’s current composition, at least one of the justices appointed to fill these two vacancies must be a resident of Florida’s Third Appellate District at the time of appointment.

Instructions for Submission

The judicial application may be obtained from the Governor’s Judicial Nominations website. Applicants must submit: (1) an original electronic copy of the application (including all attachments) in pdf format; and (2) a redacted electronic copy of the application (including all attachments), which excludes all material that is exempt or confidential under applicable public records laws, also in pdf format. Both the original and redacted electronic applications must be submitted electronically to all commission members at their email addresses below before 6 p.m. on Dec. 24. The commission strongly prefers the submission of applications in a searchable (i.e., non-scanned) pdf format.

After the deadline for submitting applications, the commission will determine which applicants to interview. Applicants who are selected by the commission for interviews will be contacted to confirm the date, time and location.

The members currently serving on the Florida Supreme Court JNC are:

Daniel Nordby, chair, Tallahassee, DNordby@shutts.com

Fred Karlinsky, vice chair, Weston, karlinskyf@gtlaw.com

Cynthia G. Angelos, Port St. Lucie, cynthiagangelos@gmail.com

Jesse M. Panuccio, Palm Beach Gardens, panuccio@gmail.com

Israel U. Reyes, Coral Gables, ireyes@reyeslawfirmpa.com

Hala A. Sandridge, Tampa, hala.sandridge@bipc.com

Heather Stearns, Tallahassee, hstearns@libertydentalplan.com

Jeanne T. Tate, Tampa, jeanne@jtatelaw.com

Harout Samra, Coral Gables, harout.samra@dlapiper.com

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Public Notice for the Appointment of a Federal Public Defender for the Middle District of Florida

Nakia Ruffin — Fri, 22 Nov 2019 17:47:03 GMT

The Court is searching for the best qualified person currently available and encourages applications from all qualified persons, including women, members of minority groups, and individuals with disabilities. All applications will be subject to the same standard of review. The current salary is $166,500. Hiring for this position is subject to the availability of funds. Federal public defenders may not engage in the private practice of law and are subject to judiciary financial disclosure requirements.

To qualify for appointment as a Federal Public Defender, applicants must:

be members in good standing of at least one state bar or the District of Columbia or the Virgin Islands bar, and members in good standing of every other bar of which they are members;
have been engaged in the active practice of criminal law for a period of at least five years, preferably with significant federal criminal trial and appellate experience;
possess the ability to administer a Federal Public Defender's office effectively;
possess, and have a reputation for:
1. integrity and good character;
2. sound physical and mental health;
3. commitment to equal justice under law and vigorous representation of his or her clients;
4. outstanding legal ability and competence (evidenced by substantial legal experience, ability to deal with complex legal problems, aptitude for legal scholarship and writing, and familiarity with courts and court processes);
have a commitment to the vigorous representation of those unable to afford counsel; and
not be related by blood or marriage to a judge of the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals or to a judge of the district court to be served, within the degrees specified in Title 28, United States Code, Section 458(link is external) at the time of the initial appointment.

Applications are available at www.ca11.uscourts.gov; from any federal Clerk of Court in the states of Alabama, Florida, and Georgia; and from the Circuit Executive, James P. Gerstenlauer, 56 Forsyth Street, NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30303. Applications should be submitted in confidence to the Circuit Executive and must be received in the Circuit Executive's Office no later than 29 November 2019. Email and fax copies of applications will not be accepted.

The United States Courts are equal opportunity employers

Resources

The Florida Bar Foundation Announces Vacancies on the Board of Directors

Nakia Ruffin — Thu, 14 Nov 2019 20:29:55 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 6, 2019
CONTACT: Kristen Wilson, kwilson@floridabar.org
The Florida Bar
TELEPHONE: (850) 561-5757

The Board of Governors is seeking applicants for the following vacancies to be filled during its January 31, 2020 meeting:

The Florida Bar Foundation Board of Directors: Two lawyers to serve three-year terms, commencing July 1, 2020, and ending June 30, 2023. This 33-member Board of Directors administers Florida’s IOTA program. Directors shall be members of the Foundation during their term(s) as directors.

Persons interested in applying for these vacancies may download the Application for Special Appointment or should call Bar headquarters at (850) 561-5757, to obtain the application form. Completed applications must be received by the Executive Director, The Florida Bar, 651 East Jefferson Street, Tallahassee, Florida, 32399-2300 or submitted via e-mail to specialapptapp@flabar.org no later than the close of business on Friday, December 13. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the required application. The Board of Governors will review all applications and may request telephone or personal interviews.

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The Florida Bar Standing Committee on Professionalism seeking Nominations for the William M. Hoeveler Judicial Professionalism Award, the Law Faculty Administrator Award, & the Group Professionalism Award

Nakia Ruffin — Wed, 13 Nov 2019 20:08:54 GMT

Please click on these links for more information https://www.floridabar.org/prof/pawards/ or https://www.floridabar.org/the-florida-bar-journal/the-henry-latimer-center-for-professionalism/ or feel free to contact Rebecca (850-561-5646, rbandy@floridabar.org) if you would like additional information regarding the awards.

Eleventh Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission Announces Applicants for Judicial Vacancies

Nakia Ruffin — Wed, 23 Oct 2019 19:50:34 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 18, 2019
CONTACT: Walter J. Harvey, Chair; walter.harvey@dadeschools.net
Eleventh Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission
TELEPHONE: 305-995-1304

The following individuals will be interviewed by the Eleventh Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission to fill the vacancies in the Miami-Dade Circuit and County Courts as indicated below. The vacancies to be filled result from the resignation of Circuit Court Judge John W. Thornton, Jr., the appointment of Circuit Court Judge Renatha S. Francis to the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court, the elevation of County Court Judges William Altfield, Gina Beovides, and Laura Shearon Cruz, and the resignation of Judge Samuel Joseph Slom.

INTERVIEW DATE: Wednesday, Nov. 6

LOCATION:

Law Enforcement Officers Memorial High School

300 NW 2nd Ave.

Miami, FL 33128

8:15 a.m. Executive Session

8:30 a.m. Ramiro Christen Areces, circuit

8:35 a.m. Jason Bloch, circuit

8:40 a.m. Karl Brown, county/circuit

8:45 a.m. Rachel Canfield, county

8:55 a.m. Raul Antonio Cuervo, circuit

9 a.m. Jeffrey Cynamon, county

9:10 a.m. Madelin D’Arce, county/circuit

9:20 a.m. Miesha Shonta Darrough, county/circuit

9:25 a.m. Renier Diaz de la Portilla, county

9:30 a.m. Christina DiRaimondo, circuit

9:35 a.m. Elisabeth Espinosa, county

9:45 a.m. Elsa Fernandez, county

9:55 a.m. Michael H. Galex, county/circuit

10:05 a.m. Carlos H. Gamez, county

10:15 a.m. Rita Gonzalez Cuervo, county

10:20 a.m. Christopher Green, county/circuit

10:30 a.m. Executive Session

11 a.m. Blanca Greenwood, county

11:05 a.m. Marcia Hansen, county

11:15 a.m. Ayana Harris, county/circuit

11:20 a.m. Julie Harris Nelson, county/circuit

11:25 a.m. Peter Heller, county/circuit

11:30 a.m. Kevin Hellman, county/circuit

11:40 a.m. Scott M. Janowitz, county/circuit

11:45 a.m. Zachary N. James, circuit

11:50 a.m. Amy Josefsberg Ederi, county

Noon Executive Session/Lunch

1 p.m. Jeffrey Kolokoff, county

1:10 p.m. Gale Lewis County, circuit

1:15 p.m. Steven Lieberman, county

1:20 p.m. Joseph J. Mansfield, circuit

1:25 p.m. Griska Mena, county

1:30 p.m. Hilton Napoleon, II, county/circuit

1:40 p.m. Steven Paulson, county

1:50 p.m. Luis Perez-Medina, circuit

1:55 p.m. Christopher Pracitto, county

2 p.m. Cristina Rivera Correa, county

2:10 p.m. Patricia Salman, county

2:20 p.m. Robert T Watson, circuit

2:25 p.m. Craig Weissberg, county

2:30 p.m. Executive Session

Members of the public are invited to attend the interviews and submit any information they have regarding the candidates to the Eleventh JNC.

ELEVENTH CIRCUIT JUDICIAL NOMINATING COMMISSION MEMBERS

Walter James Harvey (chairman)

School Board Attorney’s Office

1450 NE 2nd Avenue, Suite 400

Miami, FL 33132

Office Tel.: 305-995-1304

Fax: 305-995-1412

Robert H. Fernandez (vice chairman)

8440 Grand Canal Drive

Miami, FL 33144

Office Tel.: 305-215-2264

Scott M. Dimond

Dimond Kaplan & Rothstein, P.A

Offices at Grand Bay Plaza

2665 South Bayshore Dr. PH 2B

Miami, FL 33133

Office Tel.: 305-374-1920

Fax: 305-374-1961

Daniel S. Fridman

White & Case LLP

Southeast Financial Center

200 So. Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 4900

Miami, FL 33131

Office Tel.: 305-995-5264

Fax: 305-358-5744

Jorge A. Mestre

Rivero Mestre, LLP

2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd. Suite 1000

Miami, FL 33134

Office Tel: 305-445-2500

Fax: 305-445-2505

Hayden P. O’Byrne

K&L Gates

Southeast Financial Center, Suite 3900

200 South Biscayne Blvd.

Miami, FL 33131

Office Tel.: 305-539-3381

Fax: 305-358-7095

Robert R. Pardo

Robert R. Pardo, P.A.

7700 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 512

Miami, FL 33156

Office: Tel.: 305-596-7794

Fax: 305-596-5854

Miranda Lundeen Soto

Shutts & Bowen LLP

200 South Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 4100

Miami, Florida 33131

Office Tel.: 305-347-7326

Fax: 305-347-7985

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Eleventh Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission Announces Circuit Judge Vacancy

Nakia Ruffin — Wed, 23 Oct 2019 19:48:03 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 23, 2019
CONTACT: Walter J. Harvey, Chair; Walter.Harvey@dadeschools.net
Eleventh Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission
TELEPHONE: 305-995-1304

(1): The original unredacted paper application shall be delivered to:

Walter J. Harvey

School Board Attorney

The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida

1450 N.E 2nd Avenue, Suite 430

Miami, Florida 33132

(2): The original unredacted application shall be emailed in .pdf format to: Walter.Harvey@dadeschools.net.

Untimely applications will not be considered. The filename for .pdf applications should be as follows “19.10.29 FIRSTNAME LASTNAME Circuit Application (redacted /unredacted).”

Applicants are invited to provide the chair with a one-page sheet listing the date, location and time of hearings or trials that they would want the commissioners to observe. The one-page disclosure sheet is not mandatory and can be provided to the chair at any time before the interview day. No information other than the date, location and time should be provided on the one-page sheet.

Applications may be downloaded from The Florida Bar’s website and the Office of the Governor. Applicants should include a recent photograph.

_____________________

1 All applications submitted pursuant to the Oct. 3, notice regarding the pending Circuit Court vacancies (Judge John W. Thornton Jr. and Judge Renatha S. Francis) will be considered for this vacancy without the need to re-apply. Any additional finalists will be added to the schedule of interviews set for Nov. 6.

The Eleventh Circuit JNC will confer at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 30, to discuss the interviews set for Nov. 6. A room will be made available to members of the public (The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida, Board Attorney’s Office, 1450 N.E. 2nd Avenue, Suite 430, Miami) who wish to attend.

ELEVENTH CIRCUIT JUDICIAL NOMINATING COMMISSION MEMBERS

Walter James Harvey (chairman)

School Board Attorney’s Office

1450 NE 2nd Avenue, Suite 400

Miami, FL 33132

Office Tel.: 305-995-1304

Fax: 305-995-1412

Robert H. Fernandez (vice chairman)

8440 Grand Canal Drive

Miami, FL 33144

Office Tel.: 305-215-2264

Scott M. Dimond

Dimond Kaplan & Rothstein, P.A

Offices at Grand Bay Plaza

2665 South Bayshore Dr. PH 2B

Miami, FL 33133

Office Tel.: 305-374-1920

Fax: 305-374-1961

Daniel S. Fridman

Fridman Fels & Soto, PLLC

2525 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, Suite 750

Coral Gables, FL 33134

Office Tel.: 305-569-7720

Jorge A. Mestre Rivero Mestre, LLP

2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd. Suite 1000

Miami, FL 33134

Office Tel: 305-445-2500

Fax: 305-445-2505

Hayden P. O’Byrne

U.S. Attorney’s Office SDFL

99 NE 4th St.,

Miami, FL 33132

Office: 305-961-9447

Fax: 305-530-7679

Robert R. Pardo

Robert R. Pardo, P.A.

7700 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 512

Miami, FL 33156

Office: Tel.: 305-596-7794

Fax: 305-596-5854

Miranda Lundeen Soto

Shutts & Bowen LLP

200 South Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 4100

Miami, Florida 33131

Office Tel.: 305-347-7326

Fax: 305-347-7985

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Florida Bar Board of Governors ("BOG") Seeking Applicants for Vacancies to be Filled in the December 2019 BOG Meeting

Nakia Ruffin — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 21:05:47 GMT

The Board of Governors is seeking applicants for the following vacancies to be filled during its December meeting:

Florida Realtor-Attorney Joint Committee: Six lawyers, one from each state appellate district, and one at-large member to serve two-year terms commencing January 1, 2020. The Florida Bar president receives the recommendations of the Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section for consideration. The committee is composed of 11 lawyers appointed by The Florida Bar and 11 Realtors appointed by the Florida Association of Realtors. The committee promotes cordial relations between Realtors and attorneys and presents educational seminars.

Florida Rural Legal Services: One attorney to serve a three-year term commencing January 1, 2020, on its 20-member board of directors. Other appointing organizations are the NBA, Virgil Hawkins Florida Chapter, ACLU, voluntary bar associations, and various other eligible client and community organizations. The mission of Florida Rural Legal Services is to empower low-income individuals, groups, and communities by providing them with access to justice through legal advice, representation, and advocacy.

Eleventh Circuit Judicial Conference: One delegate to represent the Middle District of Florida to serve a four-year term commencing January 1, 2020. The biennial conference consists of educational opportunities and meetings (by state) on matters of mutual concern. The Bar’s three delegates contribute to planning and organizing an event during the conference in every odd numbered year.

Persons interested in applying for these vacancies may download the Application for Special Appointment or should call Bar headquarters at 850-561-5757 to obtain the application form. Completed applications must be received by the Executive Director, The Florida Bar, 651 East Jefferson Street, Tallahassee 32399-2300 or submitted via e-mail to specialapptapp@floridabar.org no later than the close of business on Friday, October 25. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the required application. The Board of Governors will review all applications and may request telephone or personal interviews.

2020 Judicial Nominating Commission Accepting Nominations

Nakia Ruffin — Wed, 02 Oct 2019 17:10:49 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 1, 2019
CONTACT: Kristen Wilson, kwilson@floridabar.org
The Florida Bar
TELEPHONE: (850) 561-5757

Judicial Nominating Commissions: One lawyer vacancy for each of the 26 JNCs. The Florida Bar has the opportunity to nominate three lawyers for each JNC to Gov. Ron DeSantis for his appointment. Each appointee will serve a four-year term, commencing July 1, 2020. Applicants must be members of The Florida Bar engaged in the practice of law and a resident of the territorial jurisdiction served by the commission to which the member is applying. Commissioners are not eligible for state judicial office for vacancies filled by the JNC on which they sit for 2 years following completion of their term.

Persons interested in applying for these vacancies may download the JNC application from The Florida Bar’s website, or should call Bar headquarters at (850) 561-5757, to obtain the application form. Completed applications must be received by the executive director, The Florida Bar, 651 East Jefferson Street, Tallahassee, Florida, 32399-2300 or submitted via e-mail to jncform@flabar.org no later than 5:30 p.m. on Monday, December 16. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the required application. The Board of Governors will review all applications and may request telephone or personal interviews.

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Eleventh Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission Announces Circuit Judge Vacancy

Nakia Ruffin — Wed, 02 Oct 2019 17:06:37 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 1, 2019
CONTACT: Walter J. Harvey, Chair; Walter.Harvey@dadeschools.net
Eleventh Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission
TELEPHONE: 305-995-1304

The Eleventh Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission has been asked to provide Gov. Ron DeSantis with nominees for the circuit court vacancy in the Eleventh Judicial Circuit created by the resignation of Circuit Court Judge John Thornton, Jr. The commission requests that interested candidates submit an application for consideration. If an applicant would like to be considered for this circuit court vacancy in addition to the four county court vacancies, please send correspondence indicating interest in all county and circuit court vacancies to eleventhjnc@dadeschools.net. Applicants must meet the qualifications for county court judges described in Article V, Section 8, of the Florida Constitution. Applicants must submit three copies of their application by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 15, as follows:

(1): The original unredacted paper application shall be delivered to:

Walter J. Harvey

School Board Attorney

The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida

1450 N.E 2nd Avenue, Suite 430

Miami, Florida 33132

(2): The original unredacted application shall be emailed in .pdf format to: Walter.Harvey@dadeschools.net.

Untimely applications will not be considered. The filename for .pdf applications should be as follows “19.09.30 FIRSTNAME LASTNAME Circuit Application (redacted /unredacted).”

Applications may be downloaded from The Florida Bar’s website and the Office of the Governor. Applicants should include a recent photograph.

The Eleventh Circuit JNC will confer at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 17, to schedule interviews. A room will be made available to members of the public (The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida, Board Attorney’s Office, 1450 N.E. 2nd Avenue, Suite 430, Miami, Florida 33132) who wish to attend.

ELEVENTH CIRCUIT JUDICIAL NOMINATING COMMISSION MEMBERS

Walter James Harvey (Chairman)

School Board Attorney’s Office

1450 NE 2nd Avenue, Suite 400

Miami, FL 33132

Office Tel.: 305-995-1304

Fax: 305-995-1412

Robert H. Fernandez (Vice Chairman)

8440 Grand Canal Drive

Miami, FL 33144

Office Tel.: 305-215-2264

Scott M. Dimond

Dimond Kaplan & Rothstein, P.A

Offices at Grand Bay Plaza

2665 South Bayshore Dr. PH 2B

Miami, FL 33133

Office Tel.: 305-374-1920

Fax: 305-374-1961

Daniel S. Fridman

White & Case LLP

Southeast Financial Center

200 So. Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 4900

Miami, FL 33131

Office Tel.: 305-995-5264

Fax: 305-358-5744

Jorge A. Mestre

Rivero Mestre, LLP

2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd. Suite 1000,

Miami, FL 33134

Office Tel: 305-445-2500

Fax: 305-445-2505

Hayden P. O’Byrne

K&L Gates

Southeast Financial Center, Suite 3900

200 South Biscayne Blvd.

Miami, FL 33131

Office Tel.: 305-539-3381

Fax: 305-358-7095

Robert R. Pardo

Robert R. Pardo, P.A.

7700 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 512

Miami, FL 33156

Office: Tel.: 305-596-7794

Fax: 305-596-5854

Miranda Lundeen Soto

Shutts & Bowen LLP

200 South Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 4100

Miami, Florida 33131

Office Tel.: 305-347-7326

Fax: 305-347-7985

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Eleventh Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission Announces Four County Court Judicial Vacancies

Nakia Ruffin — Fri, 27 Sep 2019 15:41:53 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2019
CONTACT: Walter J. Harvey, Chair; walter.harvey@dadeschools.net
Eleventh Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission
TELEPHONE: 305-995-1304

The Eleventh Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission has been asked to provide Gov. Ron DeSantis with nominees for four county court vacancies in the Eleventh Judicial Circuit created by the elevation of Judges William Altfield, Gina Beovides and Laura Shearon Cruz, and the resignation of Judge Samuel Joseph Slom.1 The commission requests that interested candidates submit an application for consideration. Applicants must meet the qualifications for county court judges described in Article V, Section 8, of the Florida Constitution. Applicants must submit three copies of their application by 5 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 30, as follows:

(1): The original unredacted paper application shall be delivered to:

Walter J. Harvey

School Board Attorney

The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida

1450 N.E 2nd Avenue, Suite 430

Miami, Florida 33132

(2): The original unredacted application shall be emailed in .pdf format to: Walter.Harvey@dadeschools.net.

Untimely applications will not be considered. The filename for .pdf applications should be as follows “19.09.30 FIRSTNAME LASTNAME Circuit Application (redacted /unredacted).”

Applicants are invited to provide the chair with a one-page sheet listing the date, location and time of hearings or trials that they would want the commissioners to observe. The one-page disclosure sheet is not mandatory and can be provided to the chair at any time before the interview day. No information other than the date, location and time should be provided on the one-page sheet.

Applications may be downloaded from The Florida Bar’s website at www.floridabar.org and the Office of the Governor at www.flgov.com. Applicants should include a recent photograph.

_________________________________

1 This vacancy notice supersedes the September 10, 2019 notice related to Judges Altfield, Beovides and Shearon-Cruz. All applications submitted pursuant to that notice will be considered for all four vacancies without the need to re-apply.

The Eleventh Circuit JNC will confer at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3, to schedule interviews. A room will be made available to members of the public (The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Board Attorney’s Office, 1450 N.E. 2nd Avenue, Suite 430, Miami, Florida 33132) who wish to attend.

ELEVENTH CIRCUIT JUDICIAL NOMINATING COMMISSION MEMBERS

Walter James Harvey (Chairman)

School Board Attorney’s Office

1450 NE 2nd Avenue, Suite 400

Miami, FL 33132

Office Tel.: 305-995-1304

Fax: 305-995-1412

Robert H. Fernandez (Vice Chairman)

8440 Grand Canal Drive

Miami, FL 33144

Office Tel.: 305-215-2264

Scott M. Dimond

Dimond Kaplan & Rothstein, P.A

Offices at Grand Bay Plaza

2665 South Bayshore Dr. PH 2B

Miami, FL 33133

Office Tel.: 305-374-1920

Fax: 305-374-1961

Daniel S. Fridman

White & Case LLP

Southeast Financial Center

200 So. Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 4900

Miami, FL 33131

Office Tel.: 305-995-5264

Fax: 305-358-5744

Jorge A. Mestre

Rivero Mestre, LLP

2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd. Suite 1000

Miami, FL 33134

Office Tel: 305-445-2500

Fax: 305-445-2505

Hayden P. O’Byrne

K&L Gates

Southeast Financial Center, Suite 3900

200 South Biscayne Blvd.

Miami, FL 33131

Office Tel.: 305-539-3381

Fax: 305-358-7095

Robert R. Pardo

Robert R. Pardo, P.A.

7700 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 512

Miami, FL 33156

Office: Tel.: 305-596-7794

Fax: 305-596-5854

Miranda Lundeen Soto

Shutts & Bowen LLP

200 South Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 4100

Miami, Florida 33131

Office Tel.: 305-347-7326

Fax: 305-347-7985

hayden.obyrne@klgates.com

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Resources to Support the Bahamas in the Wake of Hurricane Dorian

GSCBWLA Admin — Tue, 03 Sep 2019 13:35:12 GMT

As Hurricane Dorian continues to cause catastrophic damage in the Northern Bahamas for what has now been roughly more than 48 hours, many have reached out seeking ways to help.
Below is a list of community partners and stakeholders to support relief efforts in collaboration with the Government of The Bahamas, Consulate General of The Bahamas in Miami.
As of Monday, September 2, 12:00pm, the Consulate General of The Bahamas in Miami shared the following list of supplies that will be needed in the relief and recovery period:
Water, ice, non-perishable food, family hygiene kits (tissue, toothpaste, tooth brushes, towels, sanitary napkins), cleaning supplies (bleach, mops, brooms, disinfectants, garbage bags, sponges), baby items/supplies, plastic water bottles, cots, blankets, portal potty, flashlights, batteries, repellents (deet free), cooking utensils, temporary housing, tarpaulin, plastic sheeting, plywood, shingles, generators, chain saws, shovels, disposable utensils, power banks, solar powered chargers, portable radios, cloth bags, biodegradable bags, first aid kits, and first-aid items (bandages, gauges, tape).
DROP-OFF LOCATIONS: Locations are being identified for drop off and packaging centers for appropriate transportation and shipping.
MIAMI-DADE DROP-OFF LOCATIONS

Miami-Dade County Government locations: (1) Miami-Dade County Main Library, 101 W. Flagler St. Miami; (2) Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 N.W. 1st Street, Miami, FL; (3) Joseph Caleb Center, 5400 N.W. 22nd Avenue, Miami, FL; (4) Office of Emergency Management Warehouse, 8008 N.W. 14th Street, Doral (Parking validation for those making donations at the Stephen P. Clark Center in Downtown Miami; Free parking available in other locations)
#BahamaStrong City of Miami Fire Stations and Coconut Grove churches: www.miamigov.com/government/BAHAMASTRONG
Christ Episcopal Church, 3481 Hibiscus Street, Coconut Grove, Fl , Rev. Jonathan Archer,(www.chrepch.org) (Sanctioned by Consulate of The Bahamas)
Make The Homeless Smile (www.MTHSmile.com), Dr. Dorothy Bendross Mindingall Social and Economic Institute, 5120 N.W. 24th Avenue, Miami, FL (Contact - Valencia Gunder, 786-877-7826
Global Empowerment Mission, 340 N.W. 59th Terrace, Miami, FL (10am to 7pm) (Sanctioned by Consulate of The Bahamas)
Lifestyle Miami: 5161 NW 79th Street, Miami; 6001 NW 153rd Street, Miami Lakes; 4090 E. 6th Avenue, Hialeah, FL.
Le Luxe Beauty Bar, 10597 S.W. 40th Street, Miami, FL.
(North Miami Beach) Sapoznik Insurance, 1100 N.E. 163rd Street, North Miami Beach, FL (Contact person: Sonless Martin, 305-748-3973)
(North Miami) Law Offices of Andre Pierre, P.A., 550 N.E. 124th Street, North Miami, FL
(Miami Gardens) CMS International, 3333 N.W. 168th Street, Miami Gardens, FL
(Miami Gardens/Hialeah) All Weather Patio, 4940 NW 167th Street, Miami Gardens, Contact: Gaby Pacheco, 305-978-4126
(South Miami-Dade) Chopsticks Miami, 20553 Old Cutler Road, Cutler Bay, FL
(South Miami-Dade) Josh Jones Law, 14707 South Dixie Highway, Miami, FL, 404-446-5649
(South Miami-Dade) High Praise and Workshop Center, 6610 SW 59th Place, South Miami (South Dade Democratic Black Caucus Ron Brown Chapter)
(South Miami-Dade) Richmond Heights Resource Center, 11203 SW 152nd Street, Miami (South Dade Democratic Black Caucus Ron Brown Chapter)
(South Miami-Dade) Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church, 11591 SW 220th Street, Miami, FL (South Dade Democratic Black Caucus Ron Brown Chapter)
(South Miami-Dade) The Purple Church, 14700 Lincoln Blvd., Miami
(South Miami-Dade) Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church, 10701 SW 184th Street, Miami
(South Miami-Dade) HGT Ministries, 10711 SW 216th Street, Goulds, FL
(South Miami-Dade) Florida City Police Department, 404 West Palm Drive, Florida City
(South Miami-Dade) Nation of Life Ministries, 1055 Redland Road, Florida City
(South Miami-Dade) Gasca Auto Care, 205 N.E. 2nd Road, Homestead
(South Miami-Dade) Keyes Company, 692 N. Homestead Blvd., Suite 104, Homestead
(South Miami-Dade) Goulds Park, 11350 SW 216th Street, Miami
(South Miami-Dade) Air Base K-8 PTSA, 12829 SW 272 Street, Homestead
(South Miami-Dade) Office of State Rep. Kionne McGhee, 10720 Caribbean Blvd., Suite 435, Cutler Bay

BROWARD LOCATIONS

Tropix Shipping, 5610 N.W. 12th Avenue, Suite 203, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 (info@tropixshipping.com)
Shelter Aviation, 1100 SW 41st Ct., Ft. Lauderdale, FL (Sanctioned by the Consulate of The Bahamas)
Feet to Faith Family Services (in partnership with Glory Seekers Church), North Lauderdale, feettofaithfamilyservices@gmail.com, 954-439-0760
Koinonia Worship Center & Village, 4900 West Hallandale Beach Blvd., Pembroke Park, FL, Janice Minnis, 954-980-1030 or Rep. Shevrin Jones, 754--581-2646 (9am-5pm)
Riverside Markets: (Plantation) 6900 Cypress Road; (Fort Lauderdale) 608 S.W. 12th Avenue; (South FTL) 3218 S.E. 6th Street.
Jetscape Alpha FBO Hangar, 350 SW 34th Street, Fort Lauderdale
Elnet Maritime Agency, 2818 Centerport Circle, Pompano Beach, FL, 954-592-3332

PALM BEACH LOCATIONS

Palm Beach Outlets, 1751 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd., West Palm Beach, FL (Drop-off at Customer Service in the food pavilion), Mall Hours, Monday-Saturday, 10am to 9pm and Sundays, 11am to 7pm, Contact: Pamela Rada, 561-515-4405, prada@nedevelopment.com
Cafe Sweets Bakery, 519 25th Street, West Palm Beach, FL, Contact: Sharlyn Davis-Powery, 561-319-1478, sharlyndavis@icloud.com
Judge Rodgers Community Center, 251 West 11th Street, Riviera Beach, FL, Contact: Alan Bottorff, abottorff@teledactyl.com, 301-332-9025 (Accepting only generators, wet vacs, chainsaws, and water pumps)
Plantation Boat Mart, 2359 PGA Blvd, Palm Beach Gardens, Contact: Gaby Pacheco, 305-978-4126

MONROE COUNTY LOCATIONS

Plantation Boat Mart & Marina, 90400 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Contact: Gaby Pacheco, 305-978-4126

Other locations are being identified and confirmed. In addition, transportation for the pickup and delivery of items for shipment is being coordinated in real time. A central warehousing location is being prepared in Fort Lauderdale.
HOW TO DONATE or SUPPORT:

National Association of The Bahamas (NAB) Hurricane Relief Fund: http://www.nabmiami.org/donate (sanctioned by Consulate of The Bahamas)
United Way Operation Helping Hands: http://www.unitedwaymiami.org
Make the Homeless Smile: http://www.mthsmile.com
Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA): http://www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com/hurricane-resources
Miami-Dade Fair & Exposition Dorian Relief Fund: https://www.gofundme.com/f/be-ther-with-the-fair-dorian-relief-fund

Other platforms are being confirmed and verified.
OTHER NOTICES

Location of Family Members: For persons looking to locate family members, NEMA-Bahamas is recommending the completion of this survey application: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/88VYQMZ?fbclid=IwAR04S3LeuB6IInWzORcRdlltU_hJeaBehg_ZXYkJrCZ-7obDinqyWZw6PME
Rescue efforts are underway in Grand Bahama. Those who are in life-threatening situations are asked to call 351-4902, 351-4903 or 351-4904. Residents in severely flooded areas are urged to send their locations to 557-5202.
BahamasAir: BahamasAir wishes to advise the traveling public that the Lynden Pindling International Airport is open and as a result they wish to confirm that they will operate the following flights:
1. Tuesday, September 3: Miami flights will begin at 2:45pm
2. For more information or inquiries, contact Selvin Basden, sbasden@bahamasair.com or Stephen Gay, stephen@bahamasair.com, 242-702-4113

For more information, please follow the Consulate General of The Bahamas on Facebook and on Instagram @bahamasconmiami #BahamaStrong #HurricaneDorian #HurricaneReliefBahamas. Consul General, Linda Mackey Phone 305-373-6295, www.bahamasconmiami.com
**A special thank you to Marlon Hill, Esq. for compiling much of the information listed above.**

Dade County Bar Association Seeking Applications for Criminal Justice Award

GSCBWLA Admin — Fri, 23 Aug 2019 18:46:50 GMT

The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division Seeking Applications for the YLD Pro Bono Award

Nakia Ruffin — Thu, 22 Aug 2019 16:20:00 GMT

The Young Lawyers Division (YLD) of The Florida Bar encourages young lawyers in Florida to freely contribute their time and expertise in providing legal services to those in need. If you know a young lawyer—younger than 36 or one who has not practiced for more than five years in any jurisdiction—who performs public service or provides legal aid to those in need, the Gwen S. Cherry Black Women Lawyers Association encourages you to submit a letter or statement by Friday, August 30, 2019 at 5:00 pm, explaining why the nominee deserves to receive the YLD Pro Bono Award.

Please apply here.

GSCBWLA Fall 2019 Fellowship Announcement

Nakia Ruffin — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 21:29:35 GMT

The application can be found here. Thank you!

GSCBWLA 2018-2019 Community Impact

Nakia Ruffin — Tue, 23 Jul 2019 16:40:27 GMT

Since its formation in 1985, Gwen S. Cherry Black Women Lawyers Association has been committed to investing in the future of the legal profession and addressing the concerns of the community at-large with an emphasis on the black community and black women lawyers. The 2018-2019 Board furthered the Association’s mission and purpose by donating, sponsoring, volunteering, or hosting the following programs.

Hosted Programs

The Rainmakers Academy: An intensive four session workshop dedicated to assisting those who are interested in a solo practice by teaching how to successfully build, run, and manage a law practice.

Women of Color Conference: A gathering of black female lawyers and community leaders to impart wisdom and experiences upon the lawyers and community leaders of the future.

Leadership Brunch: Permitted an intimate discussion with past presidents and founders of the Association.

Day at the Races: Provided a relaxed environment in which lawyers and the judiciary had an opportunity to break bread together and participate in roundtable discussions on professionalism in the legal community.

Attorney General Roundtable: Afforded the candidates an opportunity to have a face to face interaction with the community.

Broward County Outreach: An informal gathering of minority lawyers practicing in Broward County to connect and learn through fellowship.

Sip & Shop with Dragonfly: Fundraiser to support the Dragonfly Thrift Boutique which gives 100% of its proceeds to support LEAP’s mission in empowering incarcerated women.

CLE Earning Membership Meetings: Provided members with the benefit of continuing education in various areas of the legal practice coupled with organizational formalities and updates.

Money Moves Webinar: Created a convenient way for members to gain valuable knowledge on the importance of developing financial prowess in the legal field.

Lobby Day: Trip to Tallahassee to sit in legislative sessions, advocate for various bills, and discuss the issues of importance with political leaders.

Dine & Dish: A member benefit centered program designed to provide an intimate and candid mentoring session in which seasoned attorneys counsel young attorneys on how to navigate the practice of law.

Judicial Candidates Forum: Judicial candidates are given the opportunity to connect with the public and discuss their stance on a myriad of issues related to the justice system.

Reading with Heart: Members of the Board read to first and second graders as well as serve donuts to the children and provide coffee to the staff.

Supported Programs & Organizations

Miami Girls Foundation’s #Nevernotworking Campaign · Christa Cares’ Domestic Violence Event

Women of the Bench · VBA Summer Networking Event · HT Smith FIU BLSA Chapter

South Florida Legal Mentoring Picnic

DCBA: Immigration Training · Black Professional Networking Summit

DCBA: The Art of Building Your Brand · Carlton Field’s Mentoring Reception · Tech Roadshow

VBA Holiday Networking Event

Elizabeth Kaplan’s Overtown Art Exhibit · Honey Shine Law Day · Affiliate Outreach Conference

Miami Dade County Work Internship Program · National Association of Women Lawyers

North Dade Law Day · Disparities in Justice · Women in the Law

Judicial Diversity Initiative's 2019 Judicial Reception · Chapman Partnership

Carol City Park Voter Registration Drive · Thelma Gibson Health Initiative Legacy Celebration

Brownsville Community Day

GSCBWLA Scholarship Award Recipient

Nakia Ruffin — Tue, 23 Jul 2019 16:09:24 GMT

Ms. Amber Mannings is an extraordinary young lady. She overcame many extreme obstacles including abuse and homelessness in the pursuit of higher education; yet she rose above it all. She received a scholarship for her undergraduate studies and is a recent graduate of FIU. Ms. Mannings will be starting law school at FIU this fall. Gwen S. Cherry Black Women Lawyers Association is proud to announce her as our Book Award recipient for 2019.

Deadline Extended to Apply for Vacancy on Florida Legal Services, Inc. Board of Directors

Nakia Ruffin — Wed, 10 Jul 2019 16:54:04 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 9, 2019
CONTACT: Kristen Wilson, kwilson@floridabar.org
The Florida Bar
Telephone: 850-561-5757

DEADLINE EXTENDED TO APPLY FOR VACANCY ON FLORIDA LEGAL SERVICES, INC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Florida Legal Services, Inc. Board of Directors: One lawyer to serve a three-year term commencing immediately and ending June 30, 2022. This 15-member board provides judicial advocacy through co-counseling with local program attorneys and volunteer pro bono attorneys and provides legislative and administrative advocacy on policies impacting the legal rights of the poor, as well as providing civil legal assistance to indigent persons who would not otherwise have the means to obtain a lawyer.

Persons interested in applying for this vacancy may download the Application for Special Appointment or should call Bar headquarters at (850) 561-5757, to obtain the application form. Completed applications must be received by the Executive Director, The Florida Bar, 651 East Jefferson Street, Tallahassee, Florida, 32399-2300 no later than the close of business on Friday, Aug. 16. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the required application.

###

Eleventh Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission Announces Circuit Judge Vacancy

Nakia Ruffin — Tue, 18 Jun 2019 16:29:07 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 18, 2019
CONTACT: Hayden P. O’Byrne, Chair; hayden.obyrne@klgates.com
11th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission
TELEPHONE: 305-539-3381

The 11th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission hereby seeks applicants to fill the vacancy created by the elevation of Judge Rodney Smith. The Commission requests that interested candidates submit an application for consideration. Applicants must meet the qualifications for circuit court judges described in Article V, Section 8 of the Florida Constitution. Applicants must submit three copies (3) of their application by 5 p.m. on Friday, June 28¹ , as follows:

(1): The original unredacted paper application shall be delivered to:

Hayden P. O’Byrne

K&L Gates, LLP

200 S. Biscayne Blvd. 39th Floor

Miami, FL 33131-2399

(2): The original unredacted application shall be emailed in .pdf format to: hayden.obyrne@klgates.com ; walter.harvey@dadeschools.net and etna.medina@klgates.com.

(3): A redacted .pdf of the application shall be emailed to eleventhcircuitjnc@klgates.com. Personal information not subject to public disclosure—such as the social security number—shall be redacted as permitted by Section 119.071 of the Florida Statutes.

Untimely applications will not be considered. The filename for .pdf applications should be as follows “19.5.10 FIRSTNAME LASTNAME Circuit Application (redacted /unredacted).”

Applications may be downloaded from the Florida Bar’s website and the Office of the Governor. Applicants should include a recent photograph.

_____________________

¹ All persons who applied to the Ruiz, Gordo and Sampedro-Iglesia vacancies will be considered for the Smith vacancy without having to re-apply. Persons interviewing on July 2, will not be re-interviewed separately for the Smith vacancy.

The 11th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission will confer at 5 p.m. on July 2, to schedule interviews. A room will be made available to members of the public (K&L Gates, LLP, 200 S. Biscayne Blvd. 39th Floor, Miami, FL 33131) who wish to attend.

11TH CIRCUIT JUDICIAL NOMINATING COMMISSION MEMBERS

Hayden P. O’Byrne (Chair)

K&L Gates

Southeast Financial Center, Suite 3900 200 South Biscayne Blvd.

Miami, FL 33131

Tel.: 305-539-3381

Walter James Harvey (Vice Chair)

School Board Attorney’s Office

1450 NE 2nd Avenue, Suite 400

Miami, FL 33132

Tel.: 305-995-1304/Fax: 305-995-1412

Paul Huck, Jr.

Jones Day

600 Brickell Avenue

Brickell World Plaza, Suite 3300

Miami, FL 33131

Tel.: 305-714-9700/Fax: 305-714-9799

paulhuck@jonesday.com

Daniel S. Fridman

White & Case LLP

Southeast Financial Center

200 So. Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 4900

Miami, FL 33131

Tel.: 305-995-5264

Robert H. Fernandez

Gunster Law Firm

Brickell World Plaza

600 Brickell Avenue, Suite 3500

Miami, FL 33131

Tel.: 305-376-6000/Fax: 786-425-4119

rfernandez@gunster.com

Robert R. Pardo

Robert R. Pardo, P.A.

7700 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 512

Miami, FL 33156

Tel.: 305-596-7794/Fax: 305-596-5854

rpardo@pardolaw.com

Christine Hernandez

United States Attorney’s Office

99 N.E. 4th Street

Miami, Fl. 33132

Tel.: 305-961-9001

cherna25@aol.com

Jorge A. Mestre Rivero Mestre, LLP

2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd. Suite 1000

Miami, FL 33134

Tel: 305-445-2500

jmestre@riveromestre.com

Scott M. Dimond, Esq.

Dimond Kaplan & Rothstein, P.A.

Offices at Grand Bay Plaza

2665 South Bayshore Dr., PH 2B

Miami, FL 33133

305-374-1920

Official Application for Vacancy

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United States District Court Northern District of Florida Public Notice for a United States Magistrate Judge in Tallahassee, Florida

Nakia Ruffin — Tue, 04 Jun 2019 16:49:33 GMT

United State Magistrate Judge

The United States District Court for the Northern District of Florida is currently accepting applications for a full-time United States magistrate judge in the Tallahassee division of the court. Additional details regarding the position and the application process are available on the court's website at www.flnd.uscourts.gov or by using this link. Applications must be received no later than August 1, 2019.

GSCBWLA accepting Applications for the 2019 Book Awards

Nakia Ruffin — Tue, 07 May 2019 16:37:14 GMT

2019 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION

The 2019 Scholarship Application is now available for law students attending law school in Miami-Dade or Broward counties.

Requirements:

1. Must be enrolled at a law school in Miami-Dade or Broward County, Florida.

2. Must complete the scholarship application and essay.

Winners of the GSCBWLA Book Awards will be announced at the Gwen S. Cherry Black Women Lawyers Association’s Scholarship, Awards & Installation Banquet on June 13, 2019.

Applications MUST be postmarked by Friday, May 31, 2019 to Gwen S. Cherry Black Women Lawyers Association at PO BOX 02631, Miami, Florida, 33101 or sent via email at info@gscbwla.org.

Joseph Caleb Center Grand Re-Opening Ceremony

Nakia Ruffin — Thu, 02 May 2019 17:06:24 GMT

ABA Family Law Section is accepting Applications for the 2019-2020 Fellowship Program

Nakia Ruffin — Thu, 02 May 2019 16:57:01 GMT

ABA Section of Family Law

2019-2020 Fellowship Program

Applications due May 15, 2019!

The ABA Section of Family Law is seeking applications for its Fellowship Program from family attorneys who demonstrate financial need and (1) meet diversity criteria, or (2) work in legal services or non-profit legal organizations whose work centers around providing free or low-cost family legal services to individuals in traditionally underserved diverse communities.

The Section is currently recruiting interested applicants for up to five (5) fellowship positions. This is a two (2) year program and will begin in September 2019 and end in August 2021. The attorneys selected to participate in the fellowship program must attend each FLS conference for the next two (2) years beginning with the Fall 2019 CLE Conference in Austin, TX September 25-28, 2019. More information about the Fellowship Program can be found here.

Send your completed application to Cynthia Swan by email: Cynthia.Swan@americanbar.org by 11:59pm CT on May 15, 2019.

United States District Court Southern District of Florida Public Notice for a United States Magistrate Judge in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Nakia Ruffin — Mon, 15 Apr 2019 16:17:01 GMT

United States Magistrate Judge

The Judicial Conference of the United States has authorized the appointment of one (1) full-time United States Magistrate Judge for the Southern District of Florida at Fort Lauderdale. The term of office is eight years.

Vacancy of U.S. Magistrate Judge - Fort Lauderdale
Applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. on May 24, 2019. (Posted 04/10/2019)

Administrative Order 2019-14
In re Appointment of Federal Magistrate Judge Merit Selection Panel Regarding the Upcoming Magistrate Judge Vacancy in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Administrative Order 2011-50
In re Procedures Governing Contact with District Judges During Magistrate Judge Merit Selection Process

Applications must be submitted only by applicants personally to; Flsd_magistratejudgerecruitment@flsd.uscourts.gov by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 24, 2019.

Deadline Extended to April 26 - Applications for Florida Lawyers Assistance, Inc. Board of Directors' Positions

Nakia Ruffin — Mon, 15 Apr 2019 16:09:36 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 4, 2019
CONTACT: Kristen Wilson, kwilson@floridabar.org
The Florida Bar
TELEPHONE: 850-561-5757

Florida Lawyers Assistance, Inc. Board of Directors: Three lawyers and two non-lawyers to serve three-year terms commencing July 1, 2019. This 15-member Board assists the legal community in securing counseling and treatment for emotional and chemical dependency problems for lawyers.

Persons interested in applying for these vacancies may download the Application for Special Appointment or should call Bar headquarters at (850) 561-5757, to obtain the application form. Completed applications must be received by the Executive Director, The Florida Bar, 651 East Jefferson Street, Tallahassee, Florida, 32399-2300 no later than the close of business on Friday, April 26, 2019. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the required application. The Board of Governors will review all applications and may request telephone or personal interviews.

###

GSCBWLA 2019 Lobby Days Highlights

GSCBWLA Admin — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 00:27:47 GMT

Written by: Julie Harris Nelson

Tallahassee, FL - From the shadows of the Florida Capitol emerge a small group of dynamic ladies from the Gwen S. Cherry Black Women Lawyers Association. On March 11, 2019, four members decided to take on the Capitol and participate in the legislative process with the Florida Association for Women Lawyers (FAWL). Specifically, the GSCBWLA legislative goal was to gain unwavering support for creation of a Death with Dignity Act, eliminate Solitary for Youths and expand the hate crime definition to include gender and disability. Our plates were full. For now, we share our highlights from the Capitol in hopes to inspire and encourage YOU to participate in lobby days with us, in 2020. This year was simply amazing!

Our very own GSCBWLA Chapter President, Melba Pearson, greets everyone at the Criminal Justice Reform Lobby Day on the stairs of the Florida Capitol

Janeen Lofton, GSCBWLA Legislative Director; Julie Harris Nelson, GSCBWLA Community Service Chair; and Melba Pearson, GSCBWLA President met with Representative Dotie Joseph

The GSCBWLA Phenomenal Four at the FAWL Legislative Reception pictured with Jennifer Shoaf Richardson, FAWL President

Melba Pearson, GSCBWLA President, pictured with Senator Jason Pizzo and Janeen Lofton

Julie Harris Nelson, Board Member/ Community Outreach Chair, pictured with Ashley Moody, Florida Attorney General

Janeen Lofton pictured with Attorney Benjamin Crump

Retired Judge Simone Marstiller (Secretary/Office of the Secretary/Florida Department of Juvenile Justice) pictured with Janeen Lofton, Julie Harris Nelson, and Athena Pearl Riley, Immediate Past President for FAWL Okaloosa Chapter

Stephanie Chaissan FAWL (Miami- Dade Chapter Rep.) pictured with Iris Elijah, Gwen Graham (Former Florida State Representative), Julie Harris Nelson and Janeen Lofton

Eleventh Judicial Circuit's eCourtesy is e-volving into courtMAP!

Nakia Ruffin — Mon, 11 Mar 2019 20:59:49 GMT

MEDIA ADVISORY

11th Judicial Circuit of Florida

For Immediate Release

March 6, 2019

Contact: Eunice Sigler, Director

Office of Government Liaison & Public Relations

Phone (305) 349-7189 Fax (305) 349-7190 Cell (786) 348-7381

eCourtesy is e-volving into courtMAP!

MIAMI-DADE COURTS TO LAUNCH PILOT

CASE MANAGEMENT AND ACCESS PLATFORM IN

CIRCUIT CIVIL DIVISION

In an effort to increase access to the courts and streamline common case management functions, the Eleventh Judicial Circuit is pleased to announce the upcoming pilot rollout of courtMAP – a new online case management and access platform within the Circuit Civil Division starting on March 11, 2019.

courtMAP combines eCourtesy, a 10-year-old system for electronically submitting documentation for hearings, with an online scheduling system that allows parties to self-schedule motion hearings, specially set hearings and trials based on an online display of available dates and times – all from any web-connected computer. Confirmations will occur automatically by email.

The new system uses technology infrastructure from Broward’s Court Management System, an advantage for attorneys and staff who work in both circuits and will already have some operational familiarity with the system.

“courtMAP takes court communications, scheduling and transparency into the 21^st Century,” said the Honorable Jennifer D. Bailey, Administrative Judge of the Circuit Civil Division.

The pilot will be deployed in the following four sections of the Circuit Civil Division, with plans for future expansion in the near future:

Judge Antonio Arzola (Section 24)
Judge Rodolfo Ruiz (Section 02)
Judge William Thomas (Sections 20 and 44)

For more information, a user manual and access to training videos, visit the courtMAP page on the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Website.

# # #

Upcoming Demonstrations:

The Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida will hold a demonstration of courtMAP this coming Tuesday, March 12th, as detailed below, and anticipates holding additional demonstrations on subsequent Tuesdays in order to assist attorneys in gaining familiarity with this very user-friendly system.

Tuesday, March 12, 2019, 12pm to 1pm

Demonstration on courtMAP

Courtroom 6-1

Dade County Courthouse

73 West Flagler Street

Miami, FL 33130

Applicants Sought for Board Overseeing Florida Bar Admissions

Nakia Ruffin — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 16:42:00 GMT

Lawyer applicants are being sought to fill two vacancies on the Florida Board of Bar Examiners. A joint screening committee of Florida Bar Board of Governors members and Board of Bar Examiners members will recommend six nominees for two lawyer vacancies at its May 24 meeting. The nominations will then be forwarded to the Supreme Court to fill two five-year terms commencing Nov. 1 and expiring on Oct. 31, 2024. Members of the public are invited to volunteer on or before March 22 for one three-year term on the Florida Board of Bar Examiners. Anyone interested in applying for this vacancy may download the “Questionnaire for Public Member Vacancy” or call the Bar at 850-561-5757 to obtain the questionnaire.

Third DCA JNC Seeks Applicants for Two Court Vacancies

Nakia Ruffin — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 15:51:51 GMT

3RD DCA JUDICIAL NOMINATING COMMISSION SEEKS APPLICANTS FOR TWO COURT VACANCIES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 23, 2019
CONTACT: Harout J. Samra, Chair; harout.samra@dlapiper.com
3rd District Court of Appeal Judicial Nominating Commission
TELEPHONE: 305-423-8500

The 3rd District Court of Appeal Judicial Nominating Commission has been asked to provide Gov. Ron DeSantis with nominees for the vacancies in the 3rd District Court of Appeal resulting from the elevations of Justice Barbara Lagoa and Justice Robert J. Luck to the Florida Supreme Court. The JNC seeks and encourages a broad, diverse and qualified pool of applicants.

Anyone interested in applying must deliver a complete original application to:

Harout J. Samra, Chair

3rd District Court of Appeal Judicial Nominating Commission

c/o DLA Piper LLP

200 S. Biscayne Blvd., Suite 2500

Miami, FL 33131

harout.samra@dlapiper.com

The deadline for submitting an application is 5 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2019. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered.

Instructions for submission:

The current Judicial Application form must be used. It may be downloaded in Word version from Governor Ron DeSantis’ website or The Florida Bar’s website. Applicants should ensure they are using the correct and current form.

The complete original and signed application must be submitted by the deadline. A photograph is encouraged but not required. To assist the Judicial Nominating Commission in its review of applications, all questions in the application must be fully and completely answered. In addition, applications should include current and accurate contact information for judges, co-counsel, opposing counsel and references. If there is requested information missing from an application, the Judicial Nominating Commission will consider the applicant’s lack of effort in submitting a complete application.

In addition to the original application, applicants must provide an electronic copy in PDF format of the original application and an electronic redacted copy in PDF format of the original application redacting information exempt under Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes or other applicable public records laws. Please send both electronic copies by email to each of the nine commissioners listed below. The electronic copy will not be accepted in place of a timely submitted original application.

Potential applicants are advised that the commission intends to hold interviews from March 6 through March 8, 2019. These dates are subject to change. Applicants receiving interviews will be separately notified of the exact date, time and location of the interview. Separate public notice will be provided when the interview schedule is approved by the commission.

Members of the bench, the Bar and the public are urged to contact the members of the commission concerning applicants for judicial positions.

The commission members are:

Harout J. Samra, Chair

DLA Piper LLP

200 S. Biscayne Blvd., Suite 2500

Miami, FL 33131-5341

Telephone: 305-423-8534

Email: harout.samra@dlapiper.com

Richard D. Lara, Vice-Chair

Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc.

7007 NW 77th Ave.

Miami, FL 33166

Telephone: 305-644-4824

Email: rlara@sbscorporate.com

Adam M. Foslid

Greenberg Traurig LLP

333 S.E. 2nd Ave.

Miami, FL 33131

Telephone: 305-579-0553

Email: foslida@gtlaw.com

Eric A. Hernandez

Hernandez Lee Martinez LLC

9190 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 204

Miami Shores, FL 33138

Telephone: 305-842-2101

Email: eric@hlmlegal.com

Lindsey Lazapoulos Friedman

United States Attorney’s Office Southern District of Florida

99 NE 4th St.

Miami, FL 33132

Email: lazopoulosfriedman@gmail.com

Michael A. Pineiro

Marcus Neiman Rashbaum & Pineiro LLP

2 S. Biscayne Blvd., Suite 1750

Miami, FL 33131

Telephone: 305-400-4268

Email: mpineiro@mnrlawfirm.com

Raquel A. Rodriguez

McDonald Hopkins, LLC

Southeast Financial Center

200 S. Biscayne Blvd., Suite 2600

Miami, FL 33131-5324

Telephone: 305-704-3990

Email: rrodriguez@mcdonaldhopkins.com

Justin J. Sayfie

Sayfie Law Firm

401 E. Las Olas Blvd., 14th Floor

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

Telephone: 954-954-523-2427

Email: justin@sayfielawfirm.com

Robert A. Spottswood

Spottswood Companies, Inc.

506 Fleming St.

Key West, FL 33040

Telephone: 305-294-6100

Email: rspottswood@spottswood.com

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Eleventh Circuit JNC Extends Deadline for Two Judicial Vacancies

Nakia Ruffin — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 15:46:12 GMT

11TH CIRCUIT JNC EXTENDS DEADLINE FOR TWO JUDICIAL VACANCIES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 25, 2019
CONTACT: Hayden P. O’Byrne., Chair; hayden.obyrne@klgates.com
11th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission
TELEPHONE: 305-539-3381

The 11th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission is extending the deadline for applications to fill the vacancies in the 11th Judicial Circuit created by the elevation of Judge Eric Hendon and Judge Bronwyn Miller. The commission requests that interested candidates submit an application for consideration. Applicants must meet the qualifications for circuit court judges described in Article V, Section 8 of the Florida Constitution. Applicants must submit three copies (3) of their application by 5 pm on Monday, Feb. 4, 2019 as follows. (Note: All prior applications will be considered without the need to re-apply.)

The original unredacted paper application shall be delivered to:

Hayden P. O’Byrne

K&L Gates, LLP

200 S. Biscayne Blvd. 39th Floor

Miami, FL 33131-2399

The original unredacted application shall be emailed in .pdf format to: hayden.obyrne@klgates.com.

A redacted .pdf of the application shall be emailed to eleventhcircuitjnc@klgates.com. Personal information not subject to public disclosure — such as the Social Security number — shall be redacted as permitted by Section 119.071 of the Florida Statutes.

Untimely applications will not be considered. The filename for .pdf applications should be as follows “19.1.18 FIRSTNAME LASTNAME Circuit Application (redacted /unredacted).”

Applicants are invited to provide the chair with a one-page sheet listing the date, location and time of hearings or trials that they would want the commissioners to observe. The one-page disclosure sheet is not mandatory and can be provided to the chair at any time before the interview day. No information other than the date, location and time should be provided on the one-page sheet.

Applications may be downloaded from the Florida Bar’s website at www.floridabar.org and the Office of the Governor at www.flgov.com. Applicants should include a recent photograph.

NOTE TO APPLICANTS: To assist the Judicial Nominating Commission in its review of applications, all questions must be fully and completely answered. Applications must include current contact information, including email addresses, for judges, co-counsel, opposing counsel, and references to facilitate the background investigation that will be conducted by the members of the commission.

The 11th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission will confer at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2019, to schedule interviews. A room will be made available to members of the public (K&L Gates, LLP, 200 S. Biscayne Blvd. 39th Floor, Miami, FL 33131) who wish to attend.

11TH CIRCUIT JUDICIAL NOMINATING COMMISSION MEMBERS:

Hayden P. O’Byrne (Chair)

K&L Gates

Southeast Financial Center, Suite 3900

200 S. Biscayne Blvd.

Miami, FL 33131

Tel.: 305-539-3381

hayden.obyrne@klgates.com

Walter James Harvey (Vice Chair)

School Board Attorney’s Office

1450 NE 2nd Ave., Suite 400

Miami, FL 33132

Tel.: 305-995-1304/Fax: 305-995-1412

Scott M. Dimond

Dimond Kaplan & Rothstein, P.A.

Offices at Grand Bay Plaza

2665 South Bayshore Drive, PH 2B

Miami, FL 33133

305-374-1920

Robert H. Fernandez

Gunster Law Firm Brickell World Plaza

600 Brickell Ave., Suite 3500

Miami, FL 33131

Tel.: 305-376-6000/Fax: 786-425-4119

rfernandez@gunster.com

Daniel S. Fridman

White & Case LLP

Southeast Financial Center

200 S. Biscayne Blvd., Suite 4900

Miami, FL 33131

Tel.: 305-995-5264