Reporters’ Workshop session delves into the Judicial Qualifications Commission
Reporters and editors have a prime opportunity Aug. 26 at 11 a.m. EDT to learn about Florida’s Judicial Qualifications Commission, the process of judicial discipline, and a review of how and when public documents become available.
During the Zoom session, Executive Director Blan L. Teagle and General Counsel Alexander J. Williams will provide essential information for reporters about the process followed by the JQC and workings of the commission.
The JQC’s investigative panel functions much like a grand jury and investigates allegations of judicial misconduct. If probable cause is found and formal charges are filed, then the JQC hearing panel serves as a special master making findings of fact and recommendations to the Florida Supreme Court as to the appropriate discipline.
The Florida Bar’s Media & Communications Law Committee and the Florida Supreme Court are sponsors of this next installment in a series of remote Reporters’ Workshop sessions. The Reporters’ Workshop is usually held in person and focuses on journalists new to covering courts and legal issues. This year’s version is offered as a series of remote webinars to minimize health concerns and offer wider availability of the topics covered in these learning sessions.
