FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Statement from The Michael Ufferman Law Firm

April 2, 2026 Firm News Social Share

We extend our deepest sympathy to Missy’s family. Her death is a heartbreaking tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers remain with the community grieving this profound loss.

In the aftermath, there has been public discussion regarding the role of the court and the decisions made in this case. Under Florida law, judges are entrusted with discretion to make decisions based on the information presented to them at the time. Here, Judge Tiffany Baker-Carper’s decision was made within the framework of that lawful discretion and not outside the bounds of established practice. Such determinations are based on the record and the representations made in court—not on information that may later come to light. Decisions made within the legal process are often complex and based on limited information at a specific point in time.

A lawful decision within a judge’s discretion—even one with tragic consequences—would not rise to the level of impeachment absent evidence of corruption, criminality, or intentional misconduct.

Impeachment is reserved for serious misconduct, such as corruption, criminal behavior, or a willful abuse of judicial authority—not for lawful decisions made within a judge’s discretion.

As appellate practitioners, we recognize the importance of judicial independence and the balance required within our system of justice. Judicial discretion allows courts to evaluate each case on its own facts and is essential to a fair and functioning legal system.

Our focus remains on honoring the life lost and encouraging a thoughtful, fact-based understanding of the legal process.

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