T H I R T E E N T H J U D I C I A L C I R C U I T C O U R T M E S S A G E C h i e f J u d g e R o n a l d N . F i c a r r o t t a –
T h i r t e e n t h J u d i c i a l C i r c u i t
ChiefJudgeficarrottareceives distinguishedJudicialServiceaward
ChiefJusticemuñizcalledChiefJudgeficarrottaa “ universal favorite ” and “ modelofaservice-mindedjudge ” whentheaward waspresented .
The year 2023 started off on a very positive note . On January 26 , Ronald N . Ficarrotta , Chief Judge of the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit , was honored with the 2023 Distinguished Judicial Service Award . Chief Justice Carlos G . Muñiz presented Chief Judge Ficarrotta with the award at the Florida Supreme Court , recognizing his accomplishments , particularly those affiliated with pro bono services .
Chief Justice Muñiz called Chief Judge Ficarrotta a “ universal favorite ” and “ model of a service-minded judge ” when the award was presented . Chief Justice Muñiz also cited to a number of worthy justifications in his remarks including Chief Judge Ficarrotta ’ s :
• Support of the Volunteer Lawyer ’ s Program of Bay Area Legal Services ( BALS ), which includes providing free office space for BALS staff , and space appropriate for holding recurring legal clinics for the public ;
• Participation in community events ;
• Establishment of the circuit ’ s Juvenile Mental Health Court , over which he presides ; and
• Encouragement of judicial colleagues to support pro bono services .
Chief Justice muñiz and Chief Judge Ficarrotta
This honor is a perfect way to recognize Chief Judge Ficarrotta as he finishes his fourth and final term as Chief Judge on June 30 , 2023 . Those who know him have experienced firsthand his friendly disposition , smile and positivity , willingness to help others , and ability to connect
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