Miami-Dade Circuit Court is undergoing a leadership transition as departing Chief Judge Nushin G. Sayfie steps down and the circuit welcomes its newest chief, Judge Ariana Fajardo Orshan, who will take the reins on July 1.
A re-appointee to the circuit by Gov Ron DeSantis in 2021, Orshan, a former Miami-Dade Circuit judge from 2012 to 2018, served as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida. She was nominated to that office by former President Donald Trump in 2018, making her the first woman in the role.
“Women today continue to break glass ceilings and there’s very good, qualified women in our profession and we have to encourage them to think about these type of roles in leadership because they can add a lot,” Fajardo Orshan said in a 2021 interview with the Daily Business Reviews upon her reappointment to the circuit bench.
As U.S. Attorney, Fajardo Orshan said she was most proud of hiring more than 70 new federal prosecutors and enjoys seeing the work they’re doing for their country.
‘Not a Bad Run’
In a statement regarding her departure, the current Chief Judge, Sayfie reflected on her tenure.
“I will have had four years, [or] two terms as chief judge,” she said. “Not a bad run.”
Sayfie’s tenure took Miami-Dade courts through the COVID pandemic, and ensured the wheels of justice continued to move, with courthouses remaining open while many businesses and families were affected by the pandemic’s policies.
Some uncertainty lies ahead for the departing incumbent, but she said she would remain a judge.
“I am not sure where I will be serving,” Sayfie said. “Will know more as July 1 approaches.”
Further emphasizing her gratitude, Sayfie added, “It has been my greatest privilege to serve as the chief judge of the 11th judicial circuit these last 4 years. And an even greater honor to follow in the footsteps of my friend and mentor, Bertila Soto. I wish my successor all the best and will do all I can to assist her in the transition. I remain devoted to the mission of our circuit, to serve the people of Miami-Dade County.”
These remarks highlight her dedication to the community and her appreciation for the legacy of leadership passed down by her mentor, Soto.
Soto, commenting on Sayfie’s departure, had high praise for the chief’s leadership during challenging times.
“Judge Sayfie became chief judge during the challenging times of the pandemic, while overseeing the civil courthouse project, the CJIS rebuild, and many other critical initiatives,” Soto said. “She embraced her responsibilities with exceptional awareness, intelligence, and intensity. Despite these numerous demands, she remained mindful of her staff, our community, and her fellow judges. I extend my heartfelt gratitude for her dedicated service and outstanding leadership.”
As the circuit prepares for a new chapter, Ariana Fajardo Orshan’s appointment is viewed as a continuation of the high standards set by her predecessor.
The legal community now turns its focus to a smooth transition as July 1 approaches, marking the beginning of Orshan’s tenure.
