Author Description

The book includes a DVD documentary. The book details the creation and evolution of the Florida district appellate court system, focusing on the Third District Court of Appeal, whose jurisdiction covers Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. Lawyers and historians trace the origins of the Court and recall its landmark decisions. Judges offer an insider's view of the Court, sharing their memories and insights. Carefully documented and illustrated with more than 150 photographs, the book gives an in depth portrait of the Court's unique contribution to our democratic process. For five decades, in a community sometimes rocked by scandal, the Third District Court of Appeal has maintained a stellar reputation. "We who have the honor to be part of a district court of appeal - whether as judges, law clerks or staff - strive to achieve the high standards of excellence that the founders of the system had in mind," writes former Chief Judge Gerald B. Cope, Jr. "This book stands as a fitting tribute to those whose foresight and initiative fifty years ago led to the creation of a new public institution in Florida." The professionally produced DVD documentary included with the book tracks the Court's history, as it paralleled the history of South Florida, and contains interviews with current and former Third District judges.