| Entity Name: | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Jurisdiction: | FLORIDA |
| Filing Type: | Foreign Non-Profit |
| Status: | Active |
| Date Filed: | 30 Oct 2000 (24 years ago) |
| Document Number: | F00000006115 |
| FEI/EIN Number | 521885088 |
| Address: | 425 THIRD STREET, SW, SUITE 800, WASHINGTON, DC, 20024 |
| Mail Address: | 425 THIRD STREET, SW, SUITE 800, WASHINGTON, DC, 20024 |
| Place of Formation: | WASHINGTON |
| Name | Role | Address |
|---|---|---|
| CT CORPORATION SYSTEM | Agent | 1200 SOUTH PINE ISLAND ROAD, PLANTATION, FL, 33324 |
| Name | Role | Address |
|---|---|---|
| ORFANEDES PAUL J | Secretary | 425 THIRD STREET, SW SUITE 800, WASHINGTON, DC, 20024 |
| Name | Role | Address |
|---|---|---|
| ORFANEDES PAUL J | Treasurer | 425 THIRD STREET, SW SUITE 800, WASHINGTON, DC, 20024 |
| Name | Role | Address |
|---|---|---|
| FITTON THOMAS J | President | 425 THIRD STREET, SW SUITE 800, WASHINGTON, DC, 20024 |
| Name | Role | Address |
|---|---|---|
| FARRELL CHRIS | Director | 425 THIRD STREET, SW SUITE 800, WASHINGTON, DC, 20024 |
| Event Type | Filed Date | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| REINSTATEMENT | 2018-10-10 | No data | No data |
| REVOKED FOR ANNUAL REPORT | 2018-09-28 | No data | No data |
| REINSTATEMENT | 2003-10-02 | No data | No data |
| REVOKED FOR ANNUAL REPORT | 2003-09-19 | No data | No data |
| Title | Case Number | Docket Date | Status | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE VS PAUL GRASSFIELD, ET AL. | 2D2022-0600 | 2022-02-24 | Closed | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Name | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Role | Appellant |
| Status | Active |
| Representations | MARK A. SCHWARTZ, ESQ., DAVID A. WALLACE, ESQ., BONNIE LEE A. POLK, ESQ. |
| Name | THE VERITAS PROJECT, INC. |
| Role | Appellee |
| Status | Active |
| Name | EVE GRASSFIELD |
| Role | Appellee |
| Status | Active |
| Name | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Role | Appellee |
| Status | Active |
| Name | ESTATE OF BRUCE ALLEN GRASSFIELD |
| Role | Appellee |
| Status | Active |
| Name | MASON GRASSFIELD |
| Role | Appellee |
| Status | Active |
| Name | PROJECT VERITAS INC |
| Role | Appellee |
| Status | Active |
| Name | PAUL GRASSFIELD |
| Role | Appellee |
| Status | Active |
| Representations | AARON B. CRITTENDEN, ESQ., JUSTIN J. KLATSKY, ESQ., SUSAN J. SILVERMAN, ESQ., WILLIAM H. MEEKS, JR., ESQ., KIMBERLY A. BALD, ESQ., REBECCA JUNE PROCTOR, ESQ. |
| Name | THE LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE, LLC |
| Role | Appellee |
| Status | Active |
| Name | HON. DIANA L. MORELAND |
| Role | Judge/Judicial Officer |
| Status | Active |
| Name | MANATEE CLERK |
| Role | Lower Tribunal Clerk |
| Status | Active |
Docket Entries
| Docket Date | 2022-05-23 |
| Type | Record |
| Subtype | Appendix to Response |
| Description | APPENDICES /ATTACHMENTS TO RESPONSE |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2023-08-09 |
| Type | Misc. Events |
| Subtype | Oral Argument Date Set |
| Description | Oral Argument Date Set ~ Tampa |
| Docket Date | 2024-04-02 |
| Type | Mandate |
| Subtype | Mandate |
| Description | Mandate |
| Docket Date | 2024-04-02 |
| Type | Misc. Events |
| Subtype | West Publishing |
| Description | West Publishing |
| Docket Date | 2024-03-20 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion for Rehearing |
| Description | ORD-DENYING REHEARING ~ Appellant's motion for rehearing, rehearing en banc, certification, and issuance ofa written opinion is denied. |
| Docket Date | 2024-01-18 |
| Type | Response |
| Subtype | Response |
| Description | RESPONSE ~ APPELLEE PAUL GRASSFIELD'S RESPONSE TO APPELLANT VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD'S MOTION FOR REHEARING REHEARING EN BANC CERTIFICATION OR FOR WRITTEN OPINION |
| On Behalf Of | PAUL GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2024-01-08 |
| Type | Post-Disposition Motions |
| Subtype | Motion for Rehearing |
| Description | Motion for Rehearing / Rehearing En Banc ~ APPELLANT'S MOTION FOR REHEARING, REHEARING EN BANC, CERTIFICATION, OR FOR. WRITTEN OPINION1 |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2023-12-26 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion for Extension of Time |
| Description | Grant EOT (general)-74c ~ Appellant's motion for extension of time is granted, and the post-opinion motionsshall be served by January 8, 2024. |
| Docket Date | 2023-12-21 |
| Type | Motions Extensions |
| Subtype | Motion for Extension of Time |
| Description | Motion for Extension of Time ~ TO SERVE POST-OPINION MOTIONS |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2023-12-13 |
| Type | Disposition by Opinion |
| Subtype | Affirmed |
| Description | Affirmed - Authored Opinion |
| Docket Date | 2023-12-13 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order |
| Description | Miscellaneous Order ~ Appellant's motion for attorneys' fees on appeal is denied. |
| Docket Date | 2023-08-01 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Supplemental Authority |
| Description | Notice of Supplemental Authority |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-06-30 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order |
| Description | Miscellaneous Order ~ This appeal is no longer held in abeyance and shall proceed. All time periods under the Florida Rules of Appellate Procedure shall be counted from May 18, 2022. |
| Docket Date | 2022-06-09 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Related Case or Issue |
| Description | Notice of Related Case |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-05-23 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Amended Notice of Appeal |
| Description | Amended Notice of Appeal ~ CERTIFIED |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-05-23 |
| Type | Response |
| Subtype | Response |
| Description | RESPONSE ~ APPELLANT'S RESPONSE TO ORDER DATED APRIL 27, 2022, AND NOTICE OF PROVIDING COURT WITH FINAL APPEALABLE ORDER |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-21 |
| Type | Motions Relating to Oral Argument |
| Subtype | Motion For Continuation of Oral Argument |
| Description | Motion For Continuation of Oral Argument |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-21 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Supplemental Authority |
| Description | Notice of Supplemental Authority |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-09 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion/Request for Oral Argument |
| Description | Oral Argument Notice ~ This case is provisionally set for oral argument on WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2023, at 9:30 A.M., before: Judge Edward C. LaRose, Judge Matthew C. Lucas, Judge Suzanne Labrit. Oral argument will occur at the Second District Court of Appeal, in the courtroom of the Stetson University College Of Law, Tampa Law Center, First Floor, 1700 North Tampa Street, Tampa, Florida. The court calendars can be viewed on this court’s website at www.2dca.org. Counsel or parties are requested to make their presence known to the receptionist by fifteen minutes prior to the time listed above.The panel is subject to change without notice. Should the assigned panel of judges decide that the court will not benefit from oral argument in this proceeding, the attorneys or parties will be notified by order no less than two weeks before the scheduled date. If this is a criminal proceeding where a victim, as defined in article I, section 16(e), Florida Constitution, has invoked their right to notice under article I, section 16(b)(6), the State is directed to provide the victim with notice of this oral argument and of any changes to the scheduled date.Please review the notice regarding oral argument in the Second District Court of Appeal. A copy has been furnished with this order and may also be found on this court’s website. |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-07 |
| Type | Motions Relating to Attorney Fees/Costs |
| Subtype | Motion For Attorney's Fees |
| Description | Motion For Attorney's Fees ~ APPELLANT^S MOTION FOR ATTORNEYS^ FEES ON APPEAL |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-07 |
| Type | Brief |
| Subtype | Reply Brief |
| Description | Appellant Reply Brief |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-07 |
| Type | Motions Relating to Oral Argument |
| Subtype | Motion/Request for Oral Argument |
| Description | Request for Oral Argument |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2023-01-26 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Agreed Extension of Time |
| Description | Stipulation for Extension of Time ~ 30 - RB DUE 03/07/2023 |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2023-01-10 |
| Type | Motions Relating to Oral Argument |
| Subtype | Motion/Request for Oral Argument |
| Description | Request for Oral Argument |
| On Behalf Of | PAUL GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2023-01-06 |
| Type | Brief |
| Subtype | Appendix |
| Description | Appendix for Answer Brief |
| On Behalf Of | PAUL GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-12-30 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Agreed Extension of Time |
| Description | Stipulation for Extension of Time ~ 7 - AB DUE 01/06/203 |
| On Behalf Of | PAUL GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-12-14 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion for Extension of Time to Serve Answer Brief |
| Description | ORDER GRANTING EOT FOR ANSWER BRIEF ~ Appellee Paul Grassfield's motion for extension of time is granted, and theanswer brief shall be served by December 30, 2022. |
| Docket Date | 2022-12-13 |
| Type | Motions Extensions |
| Subtype | Motion for Extension of Time to Serve Answer Brief |
| Description | Mot. for Extension of time to file Answer Brief ~ SECOND AGREED NOTICE OF EXTENSION OFTIME TO FILE ANSWER BRIEF |
| On Behalf Of | PAUL GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-11-02 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Agreed Extension of Time |
| Description | Stipulation for Extension of Time ~ AGREED NOTICE OF EXTENSION OF TIME TO FILE ANSWER BRIEF//30 - AB DUE 12/19/22 |
| On Behalf Of | PAUL GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-10-19 |
| Type | Brief |
| Subtype | Initial Brief |
| Description | Initial Appellant Brief on Merits |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-10-04 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Agreed Extension of Time |
| Description | Stipulation for Extension of Time ~ 10 - IB DUE 10/20/22 |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-09-15 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Agreed Extension of Time |
| Description | Stipulation for Extension of Time ~ 14 - IB DUE 10/10/22 |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-08-25 |
| Type | Misc. Events |
| Subtype | Status Report |
| Description | Status Report |
| On Behalf Of | MANATEE CLERK |
| Docket Date | 2022-08-25 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order to File Status Report |
| Description | status report/record ~ The lower tribunal clerk shall file a status report regarding record preparation andtransmission within 15 days of this order. |
| Docket Date | 2022-08-03 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Miscellaneous Motion |
| Description | Grant Miscellaneous Motion-79 ~ Appellant Violetta Grassfield's Motion to Reclassify Appeal as from a Circuit Civil Final Judgment, filed in 2D22-600, is granted, and 2D22-600 shall proceed as a final civil appeal pursuant to Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.110. The motions to consolidate are granted to the extent that the appeals 2D22-502 and 2D22-600 will be consolidated for record purposes and will travel together for review by the same panel of judges. The parties shall file separate briefs for each appeal and, as may be necessary, separate motions. However, only one copy of the record shall be transmitted. The clerk's motion for extension of time to file record on appeal is granted, and the record shall be transmitted within 20 days of the date of this order. |
| Docket Date | 2022-07-12 |
| Type | Motions Other |
| Subtype | Motion To Consolidate |
| Description | Motion To Consolidate ~ MOTION TO CONSOLIDATE |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-07-12 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Agreed Extension of Time |
| Description | Stipulation for Extension of Time ~ APPELLANT VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD'S NOTICE OF EXTENSION OF TIME TO FILE INITIAL BRIEF//60 - IB DUE 9/26/22 |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-07-12 |
| Type | Motions Extensions |
| Subtype | Motion for Extension of Time for Record |
| Description | Motion Extension of Time To Complete Roa ~ MOTION FOR EXTENSION OF TIME TO FILE RECORD ON APPEAL |
| On Behalf Of | MANATEE CLERK |
| Docket Date | 2022-07-01 |
| Type | Motions Other |
| Subtype | Miscellaneous Motion |
| Description | Miscellaneous Motion ~ APPELLANT VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD'S MOTION TORECLASSIFY APPEAL AS FROM A CIRCUIT CIVIL FINALJUDGMENT |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-07-01 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Filing |
| Description | Notice of Filing ~ NOTICE OF FILING COPIES OF DIRECTIONS TO CLERK |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-05-23 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order Discharging Show Cause Order |
| Description | ORD-DISCHARGING SHOW CAUSE ~ This court's April 27, 2022, order to show cause is discharged. |
| Docket Date | 2022-05-18 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion for Extension of Time |
| Description | Grant EOT (general)-74c ~ Appellant's motion for extension of time to submit a final appealable order from the trial court is granted. Appellant shall comply with this court's April 27, 2022, order within five days of the date of this order. |
| Docket Date | 2022-05-17 |
| Type | Motions Extensions |
| Subtype | Motion for Extension of Time |
| Description | Motion for Extension of Time ~ MOTION FOR FIVE-DAY EXTENSION OF TIME TO SUBMIT A FINAL APPEALABLE ORDER FROM TRIAL COURT |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-04-20 |
| Type | Misc. Events |
| Subtype | Status Report |
| Description | Status Report ~ APPELLANT VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD'S SUPPLEMENTAL STATUS REPORT IN RESPONSE TO ORDER DATED FEBRUARY 25, 2022 |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-03-28 |
| Type | Misc. Events |
| Subtype | Status Report |
| Description | Status Report ~ APPELLANT VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD'S STATUS REPORT IN RESPONSE TO ORDER DATED FEBRUARY 25, 2022 |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-25 |
| Type | Misc. Events |
| Subtype | Case Filing Fee Paid through Portal |
| Description | Case Filing Fee Paid through Portal |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-25 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Abeyance Order |
| Description | Appeal In Abeyance ~ It appears that motion(s) are pending in the lower tribunal with the effect of delaying rendition pursuant to Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.020(h). This appeal is held in abeyance. If there are no such motions pending, Appellant shall notify this court within five days. If there are such motion(s) pending, Appellant shall notify this court upon disposition of the motion(s) or shall file a status report within thirty days, whichever occurs first. |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-25 |
| Type | Letter |
| Subtype | Acknowledgment Letter |
| Description | Acknowledgment Letter 1 |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-24 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Appeal |
| Description | Notice of Appeal Filed ~ W/ORDER |
| On Behalf Of | VIOLETTA GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-24 |
| Type | Misc. Events |
| Subtype | Fee Status |
| Description | FP:Fee Paid Through Portal |
| Docket Date | 2023-06-01 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion/Request for Oral Argument |
| Description | Oral Argument Notice ~ This case is provisionally set for oral argument on WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 09, 2023, at 9:30 A.M., before: Judge Edward C. LaRose, Judge J. Andrew Atkinson, Judge Suzanne Labrit. Oral argument will occur at the Second District Court of Appeal, in the courtroom of the Stetson University College Of Law, Tampa Law Center, First Floor, 1700 North Tampa Street, Tampa, Florida. The court calendars can be viewed on this court’s website at www.2dca.org. Counsel or parties are requested to make their presence known to the receptionist by fifteen minutes prior to the time listed above.The panel is subject to change without notice. Should the assigned panel of judges decide that the court will not benefit from oral argument in this proceeding, the attorneys or parties will be notified by order no less than two weeks before the scheduled date. If this is a criminal proceeding where a victim, as defined in article I, section 16(e), Florida Constitution, has invoked their right to notice under article I, section 16(b)(6), the State is directed to provide the victim with notice of this oral argument and of any changes to the scheduled date.Please review the notice regarding oral argument in the Second District Court of Appeal. A copy has been furnished with this order and may also be found on this court’s website. |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-22 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion For Continuation of Oral Argument |
| Description | ORD-GRANTING CONTINUANCE OF OA ~ Appellant's motion filed March 21, 2023, for continuance of oral argument is granted. Oral argument scheduled for May 17, 2023, is canceled and will be rescheduled for a later date. |
| Docket Date | 2022-04-27 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order to Show Cause |
| Description | ORD-TO SHOW CAUSE ~ Appellant shall show cause within thirty days why this appeal should not be dismissed for lack of jurisdiction. See Wahl v. Taylor, 926 So. 2d 488, 489 (Fla. 2d DCA 2006) ("[A]n order merely granting a motion for summary judgment is not a final order."); Better Gov't Ass'n of Sarasota Cty. v. State, 802 So. 2d 414 (Fla. 2d DCA 2001). Jurisdiction is relinquished to the extent necessary to allow the trial court to enter an appealable, final order. Should appellant provide this court with such an appealable, final order within twenty days, this premature appeal will be mature and will proceed to consideration. See Fla. R. App. P. 9.110(l) (stating that if a notice of appeal is prematurely filed before rendition of a final order, "the lower tribunal retains jurisdiction to render a final order"). If appellant fails to present an appealable order within that time frame, or persuade this court that the existing order is appealable, this appeal will be subject to dismissal without further notice. Requests to extend the time to comply with this order to show cause are unlikely to receive favorable consideration. |
| Classification | NOA Final - Circuit Civil - Other |
| Court | 2nd District Court of Appeal |
| Originating Court |
Circuit Court for the Twelfth Judicial Circuit, Manatee County 2019-CP-2429 Circuit Court for the Twelfth Judicial Circuit, Manatee County 2020-CA-2145 |
Parties
| Name | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Role | Appellant |
| Status | Active |
| Representations | SUSAN J. SILVERMAN, ESQ. |
| Name | THE LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE, LLC |
| Role | Appellant |
| Status | Active |
| Name | PROJECT VERITAS INC |
| Role | Appellant |
| Status | Active |
| Name | ESTATE OF BRUCE ALLEN GRASSFIELD |
| Role | Appellee |
| Status | Active |
| Name | HON. DIANA L. MORELAND |
| Role | Judge/Judicial Officer |
| Status | Active |
| Name | MANATEE CLERK |
| Role | Lower Tribunal Clerk |
| Status | Active |
| Name | PAUL GRASSFIELD |
| Role | Appellee |
| Status | Active |
| Representations | MARK A. SCHWARTZ, ESQ., REBECCA JUNE PROCTOR, ESQ., TASO M. MILONAS, ESQ., BONNIE LEE A. POLK, ESQ., JUSTIN J. KLATSKY, ESQ., DAVID A. WALLACE, ESQ., KIMBERLY A. BALD, ESQ., AARON B. CRITTENDEN, ESQ., WILLIAM H. MEEKS, JR., ESQ. |
Docket Entries
| Docket Date | 2023-12-13 |
| Type | Disposition by Opinion |
| Subtype | Affirmed |
| Description | Affirmed - Citation |
| Docket Date | 2024-01-02 |
| Type | Mandate |
| Subtype | Mandate |
| Description | Mandate |
| Docket Date | 2024-01-02 |
| Type | Misc. Events |
| Subtype | West Publishing |
| Description | West Publishing |
| Docket Date | 2023-12-13 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order |
| Description | Miscellaneous Order ~ Appellants filed a "Conditional Motion for Appellate Attorneys Fees" pursuant to section 736.1005, Florida Statutes (2022). Appellants' motion is denied. |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-22 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion For Continuation of Oral Argument |
| Description | ORD-GRANTING CONTINUANCE OF OA ~ Appellant's unopposed motion filed March 21, 2023, for continuance of oral argument is granted. Oral argument scheduled for May 17, 2023, is canceled and will be rescheduled for a later date. |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-21 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Supplemental Authority |
| Description | Notice of Supplemental Authority |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-21 |
| Type | Motions Relating to Oral Argument |
| Subtype | Motion For Continuation of Oral Argument |
| Description | Motion For Continuation of Oral Argument |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-07 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Oral Argument |
| Description | Notice of Oral Argument |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-07 |
| Type | Brief |
| Subtype | Reply Brief |
| Description | Appellant Reply Brief |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-07 |
| Type | Motions Relating to Attorney Fees/Costs |
| Subtype | Motion For Attorney's Fees |
| Description | Motion For Attorney's Fees |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2023-01-26 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Agreed Extension of Time |
| Description | Stipulation for Extension of Time ~ 30 - rb due 03/07/2023 |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2023-01-10 |
| Type | Motions Relating to Oral Argument |
| Subtype | Motion/Request for Oral Argument |
| Description | Request for Oral Argument |
| On Behalf Of | PAUL GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2023-01-06 |
| Type | Brief |
| Subtype | Answer Brief |
| Description | Appellee Answer Brief |
| On Behalf Of | PAUL GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-12-30 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Agreed Extension of Time |
| Description | Stipulation for Extension of Time ~ THIRD AGREED NOTICE OF EXTENSION OF TIME TO FILE ANSWER BRIEF |
| On Behalf Of | PAUL GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-12-14 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion for Extension of Time to Serve Answer Brief |
| Description | ORDER GRANTING EOT FOR ANSWER BRIEF ~ Appellee Paul Grassfield's motion for extension of time is granted, and theanswer brief shall be served by December 30, 2022. |
| Docket Date | 2022-12-13 |
| Type | Motions Extensions |
| Subtype | Motion for Extension of Time to Serve Answer Brief |
| Description | Mot. for Extension of time to file Answer Brief ~ SECOND AGREED NOTICE OF EXTENSION OFTIME TO FILE ANSWER BRIEF |
| On Behalf Of | PAUL GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-11-02 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Agreed Extension of Time |
| Description | Stipulation for Extension of Time ~ AGREED NOTICE OF EXTENSION OF TIME TO FILE ANSWER BRIEF//30 - AB DUE 12/19/22 |
| On Behalf Of | PAUL GRASSFIELD |
| Docket Date | 2022-10-19 |
| Type | Brief |
| Subtype | Initial Brief |
| Description | Initial Appellant Brief on Merits |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-10-04 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Agreed Extension of Time |
| Description | Stipulation for Extension of Time ~ AGREED NOTICE OF EXTENSION OF TIME TO FILE INITIAL BRIEF//10 - IB (JUDICIAL WATCH & PROJECT VERITAS) DUE 10/20/22 |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-09-15 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Agreed Extension of Time |
| Description | Stipulation for Extension of Time ~ AGREED NOTICE OF EXTENSION OF TIME TO FILE INITIAL BRIEF//20 - IB (JUDICIAL WATCH & PROJECT VERITAS) DUE 10/10/22 |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-08-09 |
| Type | Record |
| Subtype | Record on Appeal |
| Description | Received Records ~ MORELAND **CONFIDENTIAL** 12226 PAGES |
| Docket Date | 2022-08-04 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion for Extension of Time to Serve Initial Brief |
| Description | ORDER GRANTING EOT FOR INITIAL BRIEF ~ Appellants’ motion for extension of time is granted, and the initial brief shall be served by September 19, 2022. |
| Docket Date | 2022-08-03 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion to Consolidate |
| Description | Grant Record Consolidation/Travel Together ~ The motions to consolidate are granted to the extent that the appeals 2D22-502 and 2D22-600 will be consolidated for record purposes and will travel together for review by the same panel of judges. The parties shall file separate briefs for each appeal and, as may be necessary, separate motions. However, only one copy of the record shall be transmitted. |
| Docket Date | 2022-07-12 |
| Type | Motions Extensions |
| Subtype | Motion for Extension of Time for Record |
| Description | Motion Extension of Time To Complete Roa ~ MOTION FOR EXTENSION OF TIME TO FILE RECORD ON APPEAL |
| On Behalf Of | MANATEE CLERK |
| Docket Date | 2022-07-11 |
| Type | Motions Extensions |
| Subtype | Motion for Extension of Time to Serve Initial Brief |
| Description | Mot. for Extension of time to file Initial Brief ~ APPELLANTS' MOTION FOR EXTENSION OF TIME TO FILEINITIAL BRIEF |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-07-11 |
| Type | Motions Other |
| Subtype | Motion To Consolidate |
| Description | Motion To Consolidate ~ APPELLANTS' MOTION TO CONSOLIDATE APPEALS FORRECORD, TRAVEL AND ORAL ARGUMENT PURPOSES ONLY |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-07-01 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Miscellaneous Motion |
| Description | Grant Miscellaneous Motion-79 ~ Appellants' motion to reclassify appeal is granted. This appeal shall proceed pursuant to Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.110. |
| Docket Date | 2022-06-30 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order to Serve Brief |
| Description | Order for Immediate Filing of Brief ~ Appellant's initial brief shall be served within 20 days from the date of this order. |
| Docket Date | 2022-06-30 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Filing |
| Description | Notice of Filing ~ APPELLANTS' NOTICE OF FILING COPIES OF DIRECTIONS TOCLERK |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-06-30 |
| Type | Motions Other |
| Subtype | Miscellaneous Motion |
| Description | Miscellaneous Motion ~ APPELLANTS' MOTION TO RECLASSIFY APPEAL AS FROM A CIRCUIT CIVIL FINAL JUDGMENT |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-06-09 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Related Case or Issue |
| Description | Notice of Related Case |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-05-27 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order Discharging Show Cause Order |
| Description | ORD-DISCHARGING SHOW CAUSE ~ This court's February 18, 2022, order to show cause is hereby discharged. |
| Docket Date | 2022-05-25 |
| Type | Response |
| Subtype | Response |
| Description | RESPONSE ~ APPELLANTS' SECOND AMENDED RESPONSE TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE DATED FEBRUARY 18, 2022 |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-05-25 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Amended Notice of Appeal |
| Description | Amended Notice of Appeal |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-04-27 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion for Extension of Time |
| Description | Grant EOT (general)-74c ~ Appellants’ motion for an extension of time is granted to the extent that Appellant shall comply with this court's February 18, 2022, order within thirty days of the date of this order. Further requests for an extension of time are unlikely to receive favorable consideration. |
| Docket Date | 2022-04-19 |
| Type | Motions Extensions |
| Subtype | Motion for Extension of Time |
| Description | Motion for Extension of Time ~ APPELLANTS' SECOND MOTION FOR EXTENSION OF TIME PERIOD FOR RELINQUISHMENT OF JURISDICTION AND INCORPORATED STATUS REPORT |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-03-01 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order |
| Description | Miscellaneous Order ~ Appellant's motion to extend the time period for relinquishment of jurisdiction is granted. Jurisdiction remains relinquished to the extent it is necessary as provided for by this court's February 18, 2022, order. Appellant shall satisfy this court's February 18, 2022, order to show cause by April 20, 2022. Further requests for an extension of time to comply with this court's February 18, 2022, order are unlikely to receive favorable consideration. |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-28 |
| Type | Response |
| Subtype | Response |
| Description | RESPONSE ~ APPELLANTS' AMENDED RESUBMITTED RESPONSE TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE, INCORPORATED STATUS REPORT, AND MOTION TO EXTEND THE TIME PERIOD FOR RELINQUISHMENT OF JURISDICTION |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-28 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion for Extension of Time |
| Description | Deny EOT (General)-74d ~ Appellants' motion for an extension of time is denied without prejudice to refile a motion within five days that demonstrates compliance with Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.300(a) with respect to consultation with opposing counsel. Otherwise, Appellants must comply with this court's February 18, 2022, order to show cause within ten days of the date of this order. |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-25 |
| Type | Response |
| Subtype | Response |
| Description | RESPONSE ~ APPELLANTS' RESUBMITTED RESPONSE TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE, INCORPORATED STATUS REPORT, AND MOTION TO EXTEND THE TIME PERIOD FOR RELINQUISHMENT OF JURISDICTION |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-22 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Miscellaneous Motion |
| Description | deny motion until fee satisfied ~ Appellant's motion to extend the time period for relinquishment of jurisdiction contained within the response is denied without prejudice to resubmit it following satisfaction of this court's fee order of February 18, 2022. |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-21 |
| Type | Response |
| Subtype | Response |
| Description | RESPONSE ~ APPELLANTS' RESPONSE TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE, INCORPORATED STATUS REPORT, AND MOTION TO EXTEND THE TIME PERIOD FOR RELINQUISHMENT OF JURISDICTION |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-18 |
| Type | Letter |
| Subtype | Acknowledgment Letter |
| Description | Acknowledgment Letter 1 |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-17 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Appeal |
| Description | Notice of Appeal Filed ~ W/ORDER |
| On Behalf Of | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-17 |
| Type | Misc. Events |
| Subtype | Fee Status |
| Description | A3:Paid In Full - $300 |
| Docket Date | 2023-08-09 |
| Type | Misc. Events |
| Subtype | Oral Argument Date Set |
| Description | Oral Argument Date Set ~ Tampa |
| Docket Date | 2023-06-01 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion/Request for Oral Argument |
| Description | Oral Argument Notice ~ This case is provisionally set for oral argument on WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 09, 2023, at 9:30 A.M., before: Judge Edward C. LaRose, Judge J. Andrew Atkinson, Judge Suzanne Labrit. Oral argument will occur at the Second District Court of Appeal, in the courtroom of the Stetson University College Of Law, Tampa Law Center, First Floor, 1700 North Tampa Street, Tampa, Florida. The court calendars can be viewed on this court’s website at www.2dca.org. Counsel or parties are requested to make their presence known to the receptionist by fifteen minutes prior to the time listed above.The panel is subject to change without notice. Should the assigned panel of judges decide that the court will not benefit from oral argument in this proceeding, the attorneys or parties will be notified by order no less than two weeks before the scheduled date. If this is a criminal proceeding where a victim, as defined in article I, section 16(e), Florida Constitution, has invoked their right to notice under article I, section 16(b)(6), the State is directed to provide the victim with notice of this oral argument and of any changes to the scheduled date.Please review the notice regarding oral argument in the Second District Court of Appeal. A copy has been furnished with this order and may also be found on this court’s website. |
| Docket Date | 2023-03-09 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Order on Motion/Request for Oral Argument |
| Description | Oral Argument Notice ~ This case is provisionally set for oral argument on WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2023, at 9:30 A.M., before: Judge Edward C. LaRose, Judge Matthew C. Lucas, Judge Suzanne Labrit. Oral argument will occur at the Second District Court of Appeal, in the courtroom of the Stetson University College Of Law, Tampa Law Center, First Floor, 1700 North Tampa Street, Tampa, Florida. The court calendars can be viewed on this court’s website at www.2dca.org. Counsel or parties are requested to make their presence known to the receptionist by fifteen minutes prior to the time listed above.The panel is subject to change without notice. Should the assigned panel of judges decide that the court will not benefit from oral argument in this proceeding, the attorneys or parties will be notified by order no less than two weeks before the scheduled date. If this is a criminal proceeding where a victim, as defined in article I, section 16(e), Florida Constitution, has invoked their right to notice under article I, section 16(b)(6), the State is directed to provide the victim with notice of this oral argument and of any changes to the scheduled date.Please review the notice regarding oral argument in the Second District Court of Appeal. A copy has been furnished with this order and may also be found on this court’s website. |
| Docket Date | 2022-02-18 |
| Type | Order |
| Subtype | Show Cause Jurisdiction |
| Description | OSC/Better Gov't Ass'n [summary judgment) ~ ***DISCHARGED - SEE 5/27/22 ORDER***Appellant shall show cause within twenty days why this appeal should not be dismissed for lack of jurisdiction. See Wahl v. Taylor, 926 So. 2d 488, 489 (Fla. 2d DCA 2006) ("[A]n order merely granting a motion for summary judgment is not a final order."); Better Gov't Ass'n of Sarasota Cty. v. State, 802 So. 2d 414 (Fla. 2d DCA 2001). Jurisdiction is relinquished to the extent necessary to allow the trial court to enter an appealable, final order. Should appellant provide this court with such an appealable, final order within twenty days, this premature appeal will be mature and will proceed to consideration. See Fla. R. App. P. 9.110(l) (stating that if a notice of appeal is prematurely filed before rendition of a final order, "the lower tribunal retains jurisdiction to render a final order"). If appellant fails to present an appealable order within that time frame, or persuade this court that the existing order is appealable, this appeal will be subject to dismissal without further notice. |
| Classification | Original Proceedings - Circuit Family - Prohibition |
| Court | 4th District Court of Appeal |
| Originating Court |
Circuit Court for the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit, Palm Beach County 2007DR008773 MB FC |
Parties
| Name | Angela A. Bentrim |
| Role | Appellant |
| Status | Active |
| Name | Jeffrey S. Bentrim |
| Role | Respondent |
| Status | Active |
| Representations | Robert Michael Lewis, Ashley Moody |
| Name | Congressman Rick Roth |
| Role | Respondent |
| Status | Active |
| Name | JUDICIAL WATCH, INC. |
| Role | Respondent |
| Status | Active |
| Name | Hon. Renatha Francis |
| Role | Judge/Judicial Officer |
| Status | Active |
| Name | Clerk - Palm Beach |
| Role | Lower Tribunal Clerk |
| Status | Active |
Docket Entries
| Docket Date | 2021-09-13 |
| Type | Disposition |
| Subtype | Denied |
| Description | Denied - Order by Judge |
| Docket Date | 2021-09-13 |
| Type | Disposition by Order |
| Subtype | Denied |
| Description | Order Denying Petition for Writ - Prohib. ~ ORDERED that the August 31, 2021 petition for writ of prohibition is denied.GERBER, KLINGENSMITH and ARTAU, JJ., concur. |
| Docket Date | 2021-09-01 |
| Type | Notice |
| Subtype | Notice of Appearance |
| Description | Notice of Appearance |
| On Behalf Of | Jeffrey S. Bentrim |
| Docket Date | 2021-08-31 |
| Type | Letter |
| Subtype | Acknowledgment Letter |
| Description | Prohibition / Acknowledgment letter |
| Docket Date | 2021-08-31 |
| Type | Record |
| Subtype | Appendix to Petition |
| Description | Appendix to Petition |
| Docket Date | 2021-08-31 |
| Type | Misc. Events |
| Subtype | Affidavit |
| Description | Affidavit ~ PS Angela A. Bentrim JU Hon. Renatha Francis |
| On Behalf Of | Angela A. Bentrim |
| Docket Date | 2021-08-31 |
| Type | Petition |
| Subtype | Petition Prohibition |
| Description | Petition Prohibition ~ Indigent per 21-1402 |
| On Behalf Of | Angela A. Bentrim |
Date of last update: 02 Jan 2025
Sources: Florida Department of State
