Information for New Judges

All judges new to the bench are required to complete the Florida Judicial College program during their first year of judicial service following selection to the bench. Taught by a distinguished faculty drawn from among the state’s most experienced trial and appellate court judges, the College’s curriculum includes:

• A comprehensive orientation program in January, including an in-depth trial skills workshop, a mock trial experience and other classes.
• Intensive substantive law courses in March, incorporating education for both new trial judges and those who are switching divisions.
• A separate program designed especially for new appellate judges.
• A mentor program providing new trial court judges regular one-to-one guidance from experienced judges.