Miami Dade County Court Administration

Miami-Dade County Court Administration oversees the operational functions that support the court system, including scheduling, staffing, budgeting, and facilities management. It works closely with judges, clerks, and court personnel to keep daily court operations on track. This division also manages communication between departments and ensures that court services remain accessible to the public, attorneys, and legal professionals.

Whether you’re preparing for a case, contacting a specific division, or requesting court resources, understanding how administration functions can save time and prevent delays. With responsibilities spanning case management, technology systems, and courtroom logistics, the administration ensures that both the legal process and public-facing services operate smoothly and consistently across all court locations.

What is the Role of the Administrative Office of the Courts?

The Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) in Miami-Dade County plays a central role in managing the daily functions of the judicial system. It supports the judges, court personnel, and the public by maintaining efficient operations across all court divisions. The AOC ensures that judicial processes run smoothly, cases are scheduled properly, and resources are used effectively.

Duties of the Administration

The AOC is responsible for managing the internal structure and workflow of the court system. These duties include:

• Overseeing non-judicial personnel such as clerks, administrative assistants, and coordinators
• Supporting judges with scheduling, case tracking, and docket management
• Implementing local and state judicial policies
• Coordinating courtroom assignments and technology usage
• Managing financial planning, budgeting, and procurement for court operations

These responsibilities help maintain consistency and reduce delays in legal proceedings.

Case Management, Staffing, and Scheduling

Court administration ensures that each case is handled on time and by the appropriate division. Staff members use case management systems to track filings, schedule hearings, and monitor deadlines. This coordination helps keep caseloads manageable for judges and attorneys.

In terms of staffing, the AOC works closely with human resources to recruit, train, and place employees in the right roles. Each department receives the support it needs based on case volume and complexity.

Scheduling courtrooms, judges, and staff requires careful planning. The administration monitors daily and long-term calendars to avoid conflicts and balance workloads. This planning ensures fair access to justice and avoids unnecessary postponements.

Mission and Responsibilities

The mission of the Administrative Office of the Courts is to support judicial independence while improving access to justice for the public. The office works behind the scenes to ensure that judges can focus on hearing and deciding cases, rather than handling administrative burdens.

Key responsibilities include:

• Maintaining accurate records and reports
• Coordinating with the Clerk of Courts for document handling
• Managing courtroom technology and facilities
• Ensuring compliance with state court standards
• Handling public inquiries related to scheduling and services

This level of coordination allows the court to serve the public more efficiently and respond to changing needs without disrupting legal proceedings.

Court Administrator & Key Staff Roles

Behind the smooth operation of the Miami-Dade County Court system is a structured team of professionals who manage daily administrative tasks, coordinate resources, and support judicial functions. From the Chief Court Administrator to department heads and support staff, each role plays a part in ensuring that services are delivered efficiently and accurately. This section provides a clear breakdown of who they are, what they do, and how their work impacts both court users and internal operations.

Who Is the Chief Court Administrator?

The Chief Court Administrator in Miami-Dade County plays a central role in the daily operations of the court system. This individual manages the administrative functions across various court divisions, working closely with judges, department heads, and clerks. The goal is to keep the court system running efficiently and to serve the public effectively.

The current Chief Administrator oversees scheduling, budgeting, human resources, and technology systems. They act as the key liaison between the judiciary and the non-judicial staff, making sure communication is clear and operations stay on track.

Key Department Heads

Each division within the Miami-Dade County Court is led by a department head responsible for specific tasks and services. These leaders supervise teams and report directly to the Chief Court Administrator.

Here are some of the main administrative roles:

• Director of Case Management
  Oversees scheduling, case tracking, and courtroom calendars.
• Clerk of Court Operations Manager
  Coordinates with clerks on filing, record maintenance, and public service desks.
• Court Technology Officer
  Maintains court software systems, video conferencing tools, and digital records.
• Facilities & Security Manager
  Works on courthouse safety, maintenance, and space planning.
• Human Resources Director
  Handles staff hiring, payroll, benefits, and conflict resolution across departments.

Each of these positions supports the daily work of the court and ensures that judges and the public receive consistent assistance.

Support Staff Responsibilities

Support staff are the backbone of court administration. From courtroom clerks to scheduling coordinators, these professionals handle the details that keep everything functioning smoothly.

Some of their main responsibilities include:

• Preparing daily case files and hearing schedules
• Assisting judges with documents and court orders
• Responding to public inquiries and directing individuals to the correct department
• Managing digital filing systems and case updates
• Ensuring courtroom equipment is ready before hearings begin

Support staff work in a fast-paced environment that demands accuracy and attention to deadlines. They contribute directly to the court’s ability to serve residents, attorneys, and legal professionals across Miami-Dade County.

Organizational Structure of the Miami-Dade County Court

The Miami-Dade County Court follows a structured administrative framework to manage thousands of legal matters each year. With multiple departments working in sync, the court ensures smooth processing of civil, criminal, traffic, and family-related cases.

How the Court Is Structured

The court system is divided into various judicial departments based on the type of case. Each department operates under its own administrative process, supported by a team of clerks and coordinators.

Leadership begins with the Chief Judge, who provides direction across all divisions. Reporting to the Chief Judge are Administrative Judges—each responsible for managing a specific division such as civil, criminal, or family court.

Every division is assigned courtrooms, judges, and clerical staff to ensure daily operations run efficiently. This setup supports faster processing and easier access for the public and attorneys.

Judicial Departments in Miami-Dade County

The court includes the following main departments:

Civil Division

Handles disputes between individuals or businesses, such as contract issues or personal injury claims.

Criminal Division

Oversees felony and misdemeanor cases. Judges in this division handle arraignments, trials, and sentencing.

Family Court

Focuses on domestic matters like custody, child support, and divorce.

Traffic Division

Processes moving violations, license issues, and traffic infractions.

Probate & Guardianship

Manages estates, guardianships, and related petitions.

Each department has its own set of procedures, filing systems, and contact points for case updates.

Collaboration Between Judges, Clerks, and Administrative Staff

Judges make legal decisions and preside over hearings. Clerks support those judges by handling records, filing systems, and scheduling. Administrative staff manage courtroom availability, updates to rules or notices, and internal coordination.

Daily operations rely heavily on communication between the Judicial Assistant (JA), courtroom clerks, and division supervisors. This teamwork ensures that all scheduled matters proceed on time and in the right courtroom.

Administrative Oversight and Coordination

The Court Administrator plays a central role in supervising non-judicial operations. This includes staffing, budgeting, and logistical planning. Division managers meet regularly to address any issues that may impact service delivery or scheduling.

Court leadership works closely with the Clerk of Courts to manage shared responsibilities, such as access to records, filing deadlines, and case processing updates.

Visual Overview of the Court’s Structure

An organizational chart helps illustrate the chain of command and departmental layout. It typically includes:

• Chief Judge at the top
• Administrative Judges by division
• Court Administrator and department heads
• Clerical and support staff beneath each division

Divisions Within the Miami Dade Court Administration

The Miami-Dade County Court system operates through several key divisions. Each division manages a specific category of cases and is supported by administrative staff who ensure smooth processing and coordination. This structure allows the court to provide fair and timely services to the public.

Civil Division

The Civil Division handles non-criminal cases involving disputes between individuals, businesses, or organizations. Common matters include contract disputes, landlord-tenant issues, small claims, and personal injury lawsuits.

Cases are assigned based on the monetary value or subject matter. Judges oversee trials, pre-trial motions, and settlements. Clerks in this division manage filings, maintain records, and assist with scheduling hearings.

Administrative Contact:

• Phone: (305) 349-7450
• Office: Lawson E. Thomas Courthouse Center, Room 133
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday

Criminal Division

This division processes all criminal cases, from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Judges, prosecutors, public defenders, and administrative staff work together to manage arraignments, motions, plea agreements, trials, and sentencing.

The division is organized into several courtrooms based on case type and severity. Specialized units handle domestic violence, drug court, and repeat offender cases.

Administrative Contact:

• Phone: (305) 548-5100
• Office: Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building
• Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Family & Juvenile Court

The Family Division oversees cases involving family law matters such as divorce, child custody, child support, and domestic violence protection. Judges focus on legal outcomes that serve the best interests of children and families.

The Juvenile Division handles cases involving minors, including dependency (child welfare) and delinquency (criminal offenses by youth). Each case is managed with attention to privacy and rehabilitation.

Administrative Contact:

• Phone: (305) 349-5561
• Office: Lawson E. Thomas Courthouse, Family Court Floor
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Traffic Division

The Traffic Division processes civil traffic infractions and criminal traffic violations, such as driving under the influence or driving with a suspended license. Most civil cases are handled without the need for a court appearance.

Drivers may contest citations, request extensions, or take traffic school through the administrative staff or online systems.

Administrative Contact:

• Phone: (305) 275-1111
• Office: Coral Gables District Court, Traffic Unit
• Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Probate & Guardianship Division

This division manages wills, estates, guardianship of minors and incapacitated adults, and mental health proceedings. Judges oversee the distribution of assets, appointment of guardians, and protection of vulnerable individuals.

Clerks assist in filing petitions, managing court orders, and ensuring compliance with Florida statutes.

Administrative Contact:

• Phone: (305) 349-7484
• Office: Lawson E. Thomas Courthouse, Probate Office
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Contact Information for Administrative Departments

If you need assistance from the administrative offices of the Miami-Dade County Court, reaching the right department can save time and reduce stress. Whether you’re looking to speak with a specific court division or need help with scheduling or documentation, the table below offers direct contact points by department.

Main Administrative Office

Phone: (305) 349-7000
Room: Lawson E. Thomas Courthouse Center, Room 900
Email: admin@miamidadecountycourt.org

Civil Division Administration

Phone: (305) 349-7170
Room: Room 710
Email: civiladmin@miamidadecountycourt.org

Common requests handled here:

• Case status updates
• Civil court scheduling
• Filing clarifications

Criminal Division Administration

Phone: (305) 548-5100
Room: Room 1200
Email: criminaladmin@miamidadecountycourt.org

This office supports:

• Criminal case assignments
• Court appearance details
• Public defender coordination

Family Court Administration

Phone: (305) 349-5561
Room: Room 900A
Email: familyadmin@miamidadecountycourt.org

Assists with:

• Child custody hearings
• Divorce scheduling
• Family court records

Clerk of Courts – Administrative Office

Phone: (305) 275-1155
Room: Clerk’s Office, First Floor
Email: clerkadmin@miamidadecountycourt.org

Handles:

• Case filing issues
• Document certifications
• Payment processing

Probate & Guardianship Administration

Phone: (305) 349-7484
Room: Room 234
Email: probateadmin@miamidadecountycourt.org

Supports:

• Estate management questions
• Guardianship appointments
• Scheduling concerns

Judicial Administration Office

Phone: (305) 349-7001
Room: Room 1100
Email: judgeadmin@miamidadecountycourt.org

Offers support with:

• Judge assignments
• Courtroom reassignments
• Administrative judge inquiries

Administrative Support Services

Phone: (305) 349-7400
Room: Room 310
Email: supports@miamidadecountycourt.org

Helps with:

• Facility issues
• IT or scheduling tools
• General internal support

Miami Dade Judge Directory

The Miami-Dade County Court system is managed by a team of experienced judges across various divisions. This section helps you quickly locate courtroom assignments, identify judges by division, and understand how responsibilities are distributed throughout the court.

Chief Judge

The Chief Judge leads the county court’s administrative and judicial operations. This role involves overseeing policy decisions, assigning judges to divisions, and ensuring court procedures run efficiently.

• Name: Hon. Nushin G. Sayfie
• Division: General Jurisdiction
• Courtroom: DCC 635
• Phone: (305) 349-5720
• Clerk’s Office: 11th Judicial Circuit Administrative Office

The Chief Judge sets judicial policies and represents the court in community and legal matters. Contact with this office is typically for court-wide concerns, not individual case issues.

Administrative Judges by Division

Each court division has an Administrative Judge who manages scheduling, staff coordination, and judge rotation within their division. These roles help keep operations consistent across thousands of cases.

These judges handle administrative tasks and are a point of contact for attorneys or litigants needing information specific to a division.

Support Staff (Judicial Assistants & Bailiffs)

Each judge is assisted by a Judicial Assistant (JA) and a Court Bailiff. The JA manages schedules, hearings, and basic correspondence. Bailiffs maintain courtroom security and help proceedings run smoothly.

What to Know:

• Judicial Assistants should only be contacted for scheduling questions or clarifications on orders already issued.
• Bailiffs are not accessible to the public but serve a critical in-court support role.

Example Contacts:

Before reaching out to a JA, check if your issue can be handled through the clerk or division support line. Reaching out to the right staff member speeds up your case-related questions and improves communication.

Miami Dade Clerk of Courts – Administrative Coordination

The Miami-Dade Clerk of Courts plays a key role in keeping the court system organized and responsive. The office handles case records, court filings, public access to documents, and coordination with the administrative branch of the court. This section outlines how the clerk’s office supports daily court operations and what users can expect from their services.

How the Clerk Works with Court Administration

The clerk’s office acts as a central hub for administrative coordination. While judges oversee legal decisions, the clerk ensures that every case runs smoothly on paper and behind the scenes.

Clerks work closely with court administrators to schedule hearings, manage courtroom assignments, and maintain compliance with court procedures. This partnership keeps the court’s workflow balanced, helping cases move without unnecessary delays.

Communication between the administration and the clerk’s teams ensures that updates, changes, and notices are processed quickly and shared with the public and legal teams.

Filing Court Documents

The filing process is one of the clerk’s most important responsibilities. All lawsuits, motions, and legal notices begin here.

Whether you’re submitting paperwork for a civil dispute, traffic matter, or criminal case, the clerk processes your filing and adds it to the official court docket. Incomplete or incorrect filings are often returned, so it’s important to follow the specific instructions provided for each type of case.

Court filings can usually be submitted online, by mail, or in person. Each option has deadlines and specific document standards.

Accessing Court Records

The Miami-Dade Clerk’s Office provides public access to thousands of records, including Dade Court Dockets case details, judgments, and hearing dates.

Online access is available for most case types. You’ll need a case number, party name, or other relevant detail to begin a search. For older or sealed records, you may need to submit a request or visit the records department in person.

There are often fees for certified copies or large-scale requests. The clerk’s staff can explain the options available based on your needs.

Document Processing and Public Access

Once a filing is accepted, the document is logged, scanned, and indexed. This process allows court staff, attorneys, and the public to retrieve records easily.

Documents are organized by division, such as criminal, civil, family, or traffic. The indexing system helps prevent errors and reduces the time spent locating files.

If a document is missing from your case file or has not been uploaded, you can contact the clerk’s office directly for help. Many issues can be resolved within a business day.

Office Locations and Contact Options

The Miami Dade Clerk of Courts has several locations based on case type. Criminal, civil, probate, and traffic each have dedicated service counters.

Most services are available Monday through Friday during regular courthouse hours. You can contact the clerk’s office by phone or email, or visit in person for complex issues.

Court Administrative Policies & Procedures

The Miami-Dade County Court follows clear and organized administrative policies to keep court operations running smoothly. These policies cover essential areas such as how cases are assigned, scheduling procedures, and how judges are appointed to specific cases. This helps ensure fairness, transparency, and efficiency throughout the court system.

Internal Operations

Court administration manages many behind-the-scenes tasks critical to the daily functioning of the courts. These include coordinating staff assignments, maintaining records, and overseeing courtrooms to make sure hearings and trials proceed without delay. Each department works closely with court administrators to keep everything on track and resolve any issues quickly.

Judge Assignments

Assigning judges to cases is a careful process based on experience, workload, and specialization. Miami-Dade uses a system to distribute cases fairly, balancing the number of cases each judge handles. This helps prevent backlogs and ensures that cases receive timely attention from the right judicial officers.

Judges may also rotate through different divisions or specialties over time, gaining broader experience while serving the court’s needs. This rotation supports both efficiency and the quality of judicial decision-making.

Scheduling Rotations and Delays

Scheduling court dates and hearings requires coordination among judges, attorneys, and court staff. Miami-Dade Court employs policies that set clear timelines for hearings and trials to keep the process moving. Scheduling rotations ensure that judges and courtrooms are available when needed, while minimizing conflicts.

Delays can occur due to various reasons, such as requests for continuances or emergencies. The court’s policies help manage these delays by providing guidelines on how to request changes and how they affect case timelines. These policies aim to keep cases progressing while respecting the needs of all parties involved.

Judicial Committees and Administrative Boards

The Miami-Dade County Court relies on several judicial committees and administrative boards to support efficient court management and promote fair decision-making. These groups play a vital role in shaping policies, improving court services, and ensuring smooth operations across all divisions.

What Are Judicial Committees?

Judicial committees consist of judges and court staff who collaborate on specific issues affecting the court system. They focus on topics like case management, technology integration, community outreach, and legal education. By addressing these areas, committees help maintain high standards and improve how the court serves the public.

Members of the Committees and Boards

Committee members include experienced judges, court administrators, clerks, and sometimes community representatives. Each group brings valuable perspectives based on their roles and expertise. This mix allows the court to balance legal requirements with administrative needs.

For example, leadership teams often feature the Chief Judge and division heads who provide strategic direction. Other members contribute by reviewing court procedures, suggesting improvements, or overseeing special projects.

Meeting Roles and Agendas

Meetings usually follow a clear agenda, starting with updates on ongoing initiatives. Members discuss challenges and propose solutions related to court operations or policy changes. Minutes from previous meetings help track progress and assign tasks.

Common agenda topics include:

• Reviewing case flow statistics
• Evaluating new technology tools
• Planning staff training sessions
• Addressing public feedback or concerns

These meetings happen regularly to ensure timely responses to emerging needs. The outcomes often influence court rules, resource allocation, and public communication.

How to Access Court Administrative Services

If you need assistance with court administration in Miami-Dade County, there are several ways to get support. Whether you prefer online tools, in-person help, or using forms, the court provides clear options to make the process straightforward.

Online Request Systems

Miami-Dade County Court offers online platforms to submit requests related to court administration. These systems allow you to check case information, schedule hearings, or request documents without leaving home. To use these services, visit the official court website and follow the simple step-by-step instructions for each request type. Online requests are processed quickly, and you can track their status easily.

In-Person vs Virtual Help

If you prefer speaking directly to court staff, you can visit the courthouse during business hours. The administrative office is ready to assist with questions about scheduling, filings, or other court-related concerns. For those who cannot visit in person, virtual assistance is available through phone and email. Staff members provide timely responses and help clarify procedures to ensure you get the support you need.

Forms and Procedures

Certain requests require submitting specific forms. These documents are available on the court’s website for download. After completing a form, you may submit it online, mail it, or deliver it in person. Clear instructions accompany each form to guide you through the filing process. Make sure to provide all required information to avoid delays.

By offering multiple access points for administrative services, Miami-Dade County Court aims to make your interactions with the court efficient and user-friendly. If you have questions at any step, do not hesitate to contact the court’s administration office for direct help.

Recent Administrative Announcements and Notices

Staying informed about the latest court updates is crucial for anyone involved with the Miami-Dade County Court system. This section provides timely announcements and important notices related to court administration that may affect schedules, access, or procedures.

Court Announcements

The court regularly shares updates about changes in operation, upcoming events, and important reminders. These announcements can include information about new policies, shifts in administrative procedures, or public notices that impact case handling. Checking this section often helps keep you aware of any adjustments that might influence your court-related activities.

Judge Reassignments

Occasionally, judges may be reassigned to different divisions or courtrooms. These changes can affect hearing dates, courtroom locations, or case handling procedures. Announcements about judge reassignments aim to provide clarity and reduce confusion for attorneys, litigants, and the public. You can find details about which judges have been reassigned and when the changes take effect.

Emergency Closures

Unexpected events like severe weather, health concerns, or other emergencies can lead to temporary court closures. Notices about emergency closures are posted promptly to inform the public of any disruptions. This information helps avoid unnecessary trips to the courthouse and allows users to reschedule or adjust plans accordingly.

Administrative Orders

Administrative orders from the court leadership establish or modify procedures, set official policies, and provide guidance on court operations. These orders may address matters such as case scheduling, filing deadlines, or courtroom protocols. Access to these documents ensures transparency and helps users understand how the court is managing its workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are quick answers to common questions about Miami-Dade County Court administration to help you get the information you need fast

Who do I contact about my court date?

If you need information about your court date, the best contact is the Clerk of Courts office. They can provide details such as the exact time, courtroom location, and any changes to your scheduled appearance. You can reach the Clerk’s office by phone or visit their website to check the court calendar. Keep your case number handy when you call, as this will help the staff assist you quickly.

How do I speak to the clerk?

To speak directly with a court clerk, call the Miami-Dade County Clerk of Courts during regular business hours. The clerks handle filings, documents, and general case inquiries. When you call, be ready to provide your case or ticket number for faster service. Alternatively, some departments offer email support or online chat options on the court’s official website for convenience.

Where do I file an appeal?

Filing an appeal begins at the Clerk of Courts’ office. They will guide you through the required forms and deadlines. Appeals must meet strict time limits, so it’s important to act quickly. The Clerk’s office can provide instructions on how to submit your paperwork in person or electronically. If you are unsure about the process, consider consulting an attorney who specializes in appellate cases to ensure all requirements are met.

How can I find the judge’s courtroom location?

Judge assignments and courtroom locations are available on the court’s official website and often posted at the courthouse. You may also ask the Clerk of Courts office for this information. They can direct you to the correct courtroom based on your case number or judge’s name. Arriving early on your court date is recommended to avoid confusion and locate the correct room with ease.

What should I do if I miss my court date?

Missing a court date can have serious consequences. If you realize you cannot attend, contact the Clerk of Courts immediately to explain your situation. They may provide options such as rescheduling or filing a motion to reopen your case. In some situations, failing to appear can lead to a warrant or additional fines. Seeking legal advice as soon as possible is recommended to protect your rights.