MAGISTRATE DIVISION ZM

(Last Updated: 8/12/2020)

Be advised that as of March 16, 2020, Broward County Courthouse is closed to the public.

All hearings are being conducted by “ZOOM” in Drug Court, Mental Health Court and Family matters.  In order to conduct hearings via ZOOM, all parties must have access to audio-video devices and a ZOOM app be used. The ZOOM link for division ZM is below.  For participants in Drug Court or Mental Health Court, telephonic hearings can be conducted if there are no evidentiary matters at issue.  For Family hearings, telephonic appearances require the presence of a notary in order to identify and swear in a party.  Parties can be sworn in using ZOOM without the presence of a notary.  For Parties in Family Matters who do not have the ability to use ZOOM and who cannot obtain a notary, the hearings will be reset for a later date.  

Once you download Zoom on your smartphone or computer you can click on the link below to be connected to the hearing.

Join ZOOM meeting link:  https://17thflcourts.zoom.us/j/341310037 

Zoom meeting can be joined by calling the following toll free number:

(888)475-4499 US Toll-free, (833)548-0276 US Toll-free, (833)548-0282 US Toll-free, (877)853-5257 US Toll-free 

All Drug Court cases are referred by Judge Navarro from Division FN  and Judge Porth from Division FR. Mental Health Court cases are referred by Judge Porth from Division FZ.  To set cases for hearings in Drug Court or Mental Health Court please contact Bhowana Rhodes, Judicial Assistant, at 954-831-6390.

All Family matters must have an Order of Referral that allows the Magistrate to hear the Motion/Petition prior to the hearing date. If you are a pro se litigant and have received an Order of Referral you do not need to call to set a hearing on the motion/petition.  The Magistrate’s office will set the hearing upon the expiration of the 10-day objection period and review of the file.

Please do not send letters, emails or notes to the Magistrate as these may be considered ex parte communications, which are prohibited.  All written communication to the Magistrate must be through the filing of a motion/petition with the Clerk of Court and a courtesy copy sent to the Magistrate and the opposing party.

                                   THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION