Broward Judge Faces Suspension, Fine for 'Gross Negligence'

Judge Lauren Peffer cited fabricated evidence in bid for newspaper endorsement, now faces 30-day suspension and $10,000 fine.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Broward County Judge Lauren Peffer is facing a 30-day suspension, $10,000 fine, and public reprimand from the Florida Supreme Court for her 'tremendously stupid' actions during her 2024 campaign. Peffer cited a self-published book by a fired courts employee and a fabricated recording that included racist references in an effort to portray a crisis of confidence in the courts, but failed to verify the legitimacy of the 'evidence' she presented to the Sun Sentinel editorial board.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about judicial misconduct and the erosion of public trust in the courts, especially in Broward County which has seen several judges face serious sanctions in recent years. The incident raises questions about the vetting process for judicial candidates and the need for greater accountability and ethical standards among those seeking to serve on the bench.

The details

During her 2024 campaign, Peffer told the Sun Sentinel editorial board that she needed to 'rebuild trust and confidence in the courts,' citing a self-published book by a fired courts employee in Orlando and a fabricated recording that imitated the voices of two Florida Supreme Court justices and included racist language. However, an investigation by the state Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC) found that Peffer never actually read the book nor verified the legitimacy of the recording, exhibiting 'gross negligence' in her actions. The JQC has now recommended that Peffer face a 30-day suspension, $10,000 fine, and public reprimand from the Florida Supreme Court.

  • Peffer was elected as a Broward County judge in 2024.
  • The JQC investigation and hearing took place in December 2025.
  • The Florida Supreme Court will decide on Peffer's suspension, fine, and reprimand in the coming months.

The players

Judge Lauren Peffer

A Broward County judge who is facing disciplinary action for citing fabricated evidence during her 2024 campaign.

Jennifer Gottlieb

Peffer's campaign manager who advised her not to publicly retract her statements about the fabricated evidence.

Emilio Benitez

Peffer's opponent in the 2024 election, who was endorsed by the Sun Sentinel editorial board.

Florida Supreme Court

The court that will decide on Peffer's suspension, fine, and reprimand.

Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC)

The state agency that investigated Peffer's actions and recommended disciplinary measures.

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What’s next

The Florida Supreme Court will decide on Judge Peffer's suspension, fine, and reprimand in the coming months.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of judicial candidates upholding the highest ethical standards and verifying the legitimacy of any evidence they present, in order to maintain public trust in the courts. The disciplinary actions against Judge Peffer serve as a warning to other aspiring judges about the consequences of 'gross negligence' in their conduct.