Chief Judge Timothy J. Koenig | Holly Elomina, Trial Court Administrator

Announcements

2026 Employee of the Quarter (January – March) – Nico Concepcion

CONGRATULATIONS!

Photo of Nico ConcepcionPlease join us in congratulating Nico Concepcion, Judicial Staff Assistant, on being selected as Employee of the Third Quarter for January-March 2026.

Nico began his career with the 16th Judicial Circuit on September 8, 2025, shortly after graduating from college with degrees in Political Science and Psychology. From the very beginning, it was clear that Nico was a remarkable addition to our Circuit family. He quickly distinguished himself through his professionalism, dedication, integrity, and exceptional work ethic. His eagerness to learn and his genuine commitment to understanding the judicial system earned him the respect and admiration of judges, attorneys, and court personnel alike.

Soon after joining the Circuit, Nico stepped into the role of Judicial Assistant to Judge Bonnie Helms following the retirement of her longtime assistant. Without hesitation, he embraced the additional responsibilities and adapted seamlessly while continuing to support two other judicial offices. Shortly thereafter, Nico again rose to the occasion by assuming the role of Judicial Assistant to Judge Koenig after his former assistant relocated out of the county. In true “Nico fashion,” he welcomed the challenge and thrived in the fast-paced environment of managing the demands of multiple judicial offices with professionalism, poise, and efficiency.

Nico also played an instrumental role in training newly hired judicial assistants. He thoughtfully prepared detailed notes, guides, and procedural manuals to help ensure their success and smooth transition into their positions. More importantly, he trained his new colleagues with patience, encouragement, and genuine enthusiasm, always making himself available to answer questions and provide guidance. His willingness to share his knowledge and invest in others’ success reflects the kind of teammate and leader he naturally became within our Circuit.

Nico is truly an anomaly in the best sense of the word. He integrated effortlessly into the 16th Circuit team and quickly developed a deep understanding of both his role and the Court’s broader mission. His inquisitive nature and genuine thirst for legal knowledge demonstrated how deeply he cared about the quality and accuracy of the work he produced each day. He not only excelled in his own duties but also became a trusted resource and mentor to new judicial assistants and colleagues alike. His strong sense of ownership, unwavering professional ism, and pride in our Circuit’s reputation are evident in everything he does. Nico consistently holds himself and his work to the highest standards.

We would also be remiss if we did not mention Nico’s impeccable professionalism and appearance. Every day, he arrives dressed in the utmost professional manner, complete with a tie and jacket, exemplifying the dignity and respect that reflect the Circuit’s important work. Nico not only talks the part, but he also dresses and carries himself as a consummate professional.

Nico’s positive attitude and energy have had a lasting impact on those around him-what many have come to call the “Nico Effect.” His optimism, kindness, and dedication inspire others daily. While he will certainly be difficult to replace as he begins his journey to Wake Forest law school, we know he has an incredibly bright future ahead. Nico is truly one of a kind, one of those rare individuals whose impact will long be remembered. His service to the 16th Judicial Circuit reflects the very best of who we are as a Circuit.

Congratulations, Nico, on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for your exceptional service and dedication to the 16th Judicial Circuit.

2025 Employee of the Quarter (October-December) – Raquel Galvan

CONGRATULATIONS!

Please join us in congratulating Raquel Galvan, Judicial Assistant to Judge Bonnie Helms, on being selected as Employee of the Quarter for October – December 2025.

Raquel is known throughout the Circuit as the very heart of our courthouse. With her gentle, humble spirit, unwavering kindness, and genuine care for every person she encounters, she brings warmth and stability to our workplace each and every day. Her presence is not only felt but also relied upon.

Raquel began her career with the 16th Judicial Circuit in May of 1989, giving her more than 36 years of devoted service to this Circuit. Over more than three and a half decades, she has demonstrated the highest levels of professionalism, dedication, and integrity. Her strong work ethic and quiet leadership have earned her the deep respect of judges, attorneys, and court personnel alike.

She began as a secretary and soon transitioned into the role of Judicial Assistant for Judge Sandra Taylor, where she quickly distinguished herself with purpose and grace. Over the course of her career, Raquel has served as a Judicial Assistant to three judges, each time adapting seamlessly to new expectations, styles, and challenges. Remarkably, she not only excelled but also became a trusted guide, teaching each new judge countless tips, procedures, and practices that ensure success in the courtroom.

Beyond her official duties, Raquel is a teacher, a mentor, and a steady source of wisdom. Whether assisting a new Judicial Assistant, a Case Manager, or a colleague in need, she generously and thoughtfully shares her knowledge. Her institutional knowledge is truly immeasurable. She instinctively understands court processes, anticipates issues before they arise, and safeguards the integrity of our work through careful attention to detail.

It is not uncommon for judges and staff to seek guidance on procedures, orders, or notices. Her willingness to help, her strong sense of ownership, and her deep pride in this Circuit’s reputation are evident in everything she does. She holds herself and the work of this Circuit to the highest standard.

Beyond her extraordinary competence, Raquel’s positive attitude and gentle sense of humor bring light and inspiration to those around her, creating a workplace that is welcoming, supportive, and grounded in respect.

Raquel’s service reflects the very best of who we are as a Circuit. She is irreplaceable, not only for what she knows, but for who she is. Her knowledge, her generosity with her time, and her unwavering commitment have left a lasting and permanent mark on the 16th Judicial Circuit.

Congratulations, Raquel, on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for more than 36 years of exceptional service to this Circuit.

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.