Two New Judges Needed for Sixth DCA: Apply by August 1!

Lakeland, Florida, USA - The Sixth District Court of Appeal in Lakeland is on the lookout for two new judges, a development triggered by recent changes in legislation. Thanks to The Ledger, we learn that the Judicial Nominating Commission is actively seeking applications for these positions after the Florida Legislature passed Senate Bill 2508, which increases the number of judges in the court from nine to eleven. Governor Ron DeSantis has officially signed this bill into law, making the need for new judges all the more pressing.

Those interested in the judicial vacancies have until noon on August 1 to submit their applications to Chair Tara Tedrow. Importantly, applications must be complete—any late submissions, outdated forms, or incomplete documents will be tossed out. This attention to detail is crucial for anyone wishing to step into this esteemed role.

Qualifications and Application Process

To be considered for this judicial position, applicants must satisfy specific qualifications laid out in Article V, Section 8 of the Florida Constitution. This includes being a member of the Florida Bar for a minimum of ten years and being a registered voter in Florida. Additionally, candidates must reside in certain counties, such as Orange, Osceola, or Polk, at the time of their appointment.

Applications must include a recent photograph as a cover page, along with all pertinent contact information for the applicant and any relevant references for background checks. The commission welcomes engagement from the bench, the Bar, and the public during this selection process, encouraging letters of recommendation to be sent to all members before interviews begin.

Related Judicial Vacancies

The enactment of SB 2508 has not just opened positions in the Sixth DCA; it has also led to a ripple effect across the state. The Office of the Governor has noted additional vacancies including several in the 2nd, 8th, and 14th Circuit Courts, all due to resignations or appointments. For instance, the 8th Circuit Court is left needing a new judge following Chief Judge Mark Moseley’s resignation, while the 19th Circuit has multiple openings due to the resignations of Judges Janet Croom and Brett Waronicki. These vacancies underscore the broader impacts of the judicial changes initiated by SB 2508.

As the community watches these developments with keen interest, the growing number of vacancies raises questions about the changing landscape of Florida’s judicial system. Who will step up to fill these roles, and how will their decisions shape the future of law in our state?

With the application deadline fast approaching, those with an interest in making a significant contribution to Florida’s judicial system should act quickly. After all, there’s certainly something to be said for taking on a role that not only wields authority but also helps define the essence of justice in our communities.