The Florida Clerks of Court including my Orange County offices, provide necessary services that have a positive impact on our communities. From processing injunctions that protect vulnerable populations to ensuring timely access to records, we are at your service.

However, the way these services are funded – by fines, fees, and court costs – is inadequate. The current system doesn’t account for other duties that don’t generate revenue. Today, with declining budgets, increasing workloads, and no ability to carry reserves – the system just doesn’t work. When our revenues decrease – like it has during COVID-19 – YOUR public services suffer.

Many Clerks of Court have been forced to reduce office hours and cut staff, leading to delays in critical services. In Orange County, I had to seek emergency funding from the county to keep from closing offices and furloughing or laying off employees last year.  

The good news is that together with your support, we can fix the issue. 

The Florida Clerks of Court and Comptrollers are rallying behind the At Your Service priorities to begin the process of fixing the system. This year, we are seeking to work with the Legislature on a few key solutions:

The beginning of the year brings about some legislative changes, and I want to keep you updated on one that is impacting appeals.

As of January 1, 2021, all County Court decisions in criminal cases and most decisions in civil cases will be appealed to the District Courts of Appeal. Circuit Courts will retain appellate jurisdiction for certain types of cases. Find out more details and resources at KnowYourCourt.org