Announcements

2025 Employee of the Quarter (July-September) – Kim Kiraly

CONGRATULATIONS!

Please join us in congratulating Kim Kiraly, Judicial Assistant to Judge Derek Lewis, on being selected as the Employee of the Quarter for July-September 2025.

Kim is known throughout the circuit for her cheerful spirit and consistently positive outlook. Her upbeat attitude and warm personality brighten any room, and it’s rare to catch her without a smile.

Since joining the 16th Judicial Circuit in May 2013, Kim has demonstrated outstanding professionalism, dedication, and integrity. Her strong work ethic and willingness to support others have earned her the respect of colleagues, judges, and court personnel alike.

Kim began her career with the circuit as a Digital Court Reporter, and only four months later transitioned into the role of Judicial Assistant for Judge Ruth Becker. With limited training, she learned the responsibilities of the position with determination and grace. Over the course of her tenure, Kim has served as Judicial Assistant to three different judges, each time adapting seamlessly to new expectations and working styles while continuing to excel.

Earlier this year, following Judge Morgan’s appointment to the circuit bench in Plantation Key, Kim single-handedly maintained the Marathon judges’ office, coordinating the rotation of judges and case management seamlessly. Performing the duties of a Judicial Assistant for one judge is challenging; doing so for three judges across multiple courts is a true testament to her capability and professionalism. She ensured the office continued to run smoothly until a new appointment was made.

In addition to her regular responsibilities, Kim also manages building-related work orders to help ensure the Marathon Courthouse is adequately maintained and coordinates and manages the calendar for use of the limited space in the court house among various users, among many other tasks. Her willingness to take on additional duties demonstrates her strong sense of commitment to the court.

Today, as Judge Lewis’s Judicial Assistant, Kim remains highly dependable and exceptionally well organized, demonstrating efficiency, discretion, and a deep commitment to the judiciary.

Beyond her exemplary work performance, Kim’s positive attitude and thoughtful sense of humor bring encouragement and lightness to those around her, contributing to a welcoming and supportive workplace.

Kim’s service to the 16th Judicial Circuit reflects the best of who we are. Her reliability, compassion, and attention to detail embody our core values, and we are proud to recognize her with this well-deserved honor.

Congratulations, Kim, and thank you for your continued dedication to the circuit.

2024-2025 Employee of the Year (July 2024-June 2025) – Lisa Winne

CONGRATULATIONS!

We are proud to recognize Lisa Winne, Senior Case Manager for Drug Court, as the 16th Judicial Circuit’s Employee of the Year for the period of July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025.

Since joining the circuit in 2003, Lisa has consistently exemplified professionalism, dedication, and a strong commitment to both the Drug Court Team and the individuals we serve. Her work in case management, program compliance, and data reporting has been instrumental in supporting court operations and improving outcomes across Monroe County.

Lisa’s compassion, integrity, and tireless pursuit of excellence make her a valued team member and a trusted resource to the court. This recognition reflects the deep impact of her contributions, and we are honored to celebrate her outstanding service.

2025 Employee of the Quarter (April-June) – Wendy Dube

CONGRATULATIONS!

Please join us in congratulating Wendy Dube, Judicial Assistant to Judge James Morgan, on being selected as the Employee of the Quarter for April-June 2025.

Since joining the 16th Judicial Circuit in February 2005, Wendy has exemplified excellence, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to the judiciary and her colleagues. Her commitment and work ethic have made her a respected and valued team member.

Wendy began her journey with the Circuit as a Court Program Specialist in the Case Management Division, assisting prose litigants in Plantation Key and Marathon. On August 31, 2022, she was promoted to Judicial Assistant for Judge Garcia. With minimal training, she embraced the transition into the criminal division-a new area for her-with determination and grace. Often working beyond regular hours, Wendy ensured every task was completed thoroughly and accurately.

Following Judge Garcia’s retirement in November 2024, Wendy maintained seamless operations within the circuit judges’ office, supporting multiple rotating circuit judges with poise and precision until a new appointment was made. As Judge Morgan’s judicial assistant, she continues to perform her responsibilities with efficiency, integrity, and professionalism.

Wendy is widely admired for her quick responsiveness, respectful demeanor, and compassionate approach when interacting with litigants and attorneys. Beyond her exceptional work, her infectious laugh and positive energy have become a bright and uplifting presence in our workplace.

Wendy’s twenty years of dedicated service highlight the depth of her commitment and impact throughout the 16th Judicial Circuit. Her reliability, compassion, and attention to detail embody the core values of our court. We proudly recognize her with this well-earned honor as Employee of the Quarter.