The Ninth Judicial Circuit Court is located in the heart of Central Florida and is one of 20 judicial circuits in the state. Serving Orange and Osceola counties, the Ninth Circuit covers over 2,000 square miles and serves more than 1.3 million residents, making it one of the largest circuits in Florida. Adding to this, Central Florida’s sunshine, family attractions and a strong economy plays host to nearly 50 million business and vacationing visitors each year, making this the most visited region of the world.

There are currently 65 judges serving in the Ninth Circuit. On average, the circuit receives over 590,000 new cases each year. As a court of general jurisdiction, both county and circuit level cases are heard in the circuit. The court resides within the jurisdiction of the Fifth District Court of Appeal in Daytona Beach. The Florida Supreme Court is that state’s highest court and it is located in Tallahassee.

Orange and Osceola Courthouses

The Orange County Courthouse is 23 story facility located in downtown Orlando. The Osceola County Courthouse is located in downtown Kissimmee. Judges at both locations preside over criminal, civil, domestic and traffic cases. These facilities also house offices of Court Administration, the Clerk of Court, State Attorney, Public Defender and other agencies.

Thomas S. Kirk Juvenile Justice Center and Branches

In Orange County, juvenile dependency and delinquency cases are heard at the Thomas S. Kirk Juvenile Justice Center located on East Michigan Street in Orlando. There are also three satellite courtrooms in Apopka, Ocoee and Winter Park where judges hear misdemeanor and traffic cases. Three courtrooms are located at the Orange County Jail Booking and Release Center for first appearance hearings, arraignments and violation of probation hearings.

Historic Osceola County Courthouse

The Historic Osceola County Courthouse which was built in 1890 is still used on occasion for hearings and ceremonial events giving it the honor of being the oldest courthouse still in use in Florida.