Q. What events are happening in October, and are they open to the public?
A. October marks the start of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and we’re highlighting it with our Family Law Workshop on Oct. 2. This session will touch on injunction statutes related to family law matters. On Oct. 15, the St. Johns County Clerk’s Office, in collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Northeast Florida, will host Israel Friendship Day. Both events are open to the public, and we encourage all residents to join us!
Q. What is the Family Law Workshop and who can benefit from attending?
A. The Family Law Workshop is a free educational resource provided by the Clerk’s Office in partnership with St. Johns County Legal Aid and the Law Office of Nancy Harrison. While clerks cannot offer legal advice, this workshop was created to assist residents facing complex family law issues. A family law attorney will provide general guidance on topics such as divorce, domestic violence, asset division, child custody, and more. It’s a valuable resource for anyone needing clarity and direction on family law matters.
Q. For anyone who wants to participate, what do they need to know?
A. Family Law Workshops will take place on the first Wednesday of each month at 12 p.m., continuing through the end of 2024. You can attend in person at the Richard O. Watson Judicial Center (4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine) or join virtually. Our attorney partner will provide a presentation and host a Q&A session to address your legal questions. For more information or to register for virtual attendance, visit our website: https://stjohnsclerk.com/courts/family-law/.
Q. What happens on Israel Friendship Day?
A. Israel Friendship Day begins at 8 a.m. on Oct. 15 in the Rotunda of the St. Johns County Administration Building with a special ceremony to commemorate the signing of the Israel Friendship Day proclamation. Jewish community leaders, along with other local officials, will deliver remarks, and the proclamation will be signed by the Chair and myself. Following the ceremony, the proclamation will be officially read and recognized during the Board of County Commissioners meeting, where additional remarks will be shared by Jewish community leaders.
Q. Why is Israel Friendship Day significant?
A: Israel Friendship Day was established in 2021 by Clerk Brandon Patty to show support for our Jewish community and our bond with Israel. It sends a clear message that St. Johns County stands against antisemitism and all forms of discrimination. This day reaffirms our commitment to shared values of freedom, human rights, and security, making it an important moment to stand with our Jewish neighbors and defend these principles.
Q. What is the best way for residents to contact you?
For more information about Clerk’s Office happenings or with any questions, residents can call the office at (904) 819-3600, email clerk@stjohnsclerk.com, or visit our website at https://stjohnsclerk.com/.
