Hillsborough Judge Nancy Jacobs resigns following panel’s recommendation for her removal.

TAMPA — Hillsborough Circuit Judge Nancy Jacobs has announced her resignation from the bench, effective May 31, following a recommendation from a state disciplinary panel that she be removed from her judicial position. This decision comes after a series of findings by the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission, which determined that Jacobs had violated several judicial canons during her contentious 2022 campaign against Judge Jared Smith.

The commission’s investigation highlighted Jacobs’ conduct throughout a campaign that was notably charged, notably with abortion rights emerging as a critical issue. The race reflected unusual political overtones for a Florida judicial contest, where candidates typically maintain a nonpartisan stance. Ultimately, the panel concluded that Jacobs’ actions undermined her fitness to serve as a judge, leading to the recommendation for her removal.

Jacobs’ resignation coincides with ongoing deliberations within the Florida Supreme Court regarding the panel’s recommendations. In her statement announcing her departure, Jacobs emphasized her commitment to integrity and the rule of law, asserting that she served with honor throughout her judicial tenure. She recognized that her journey has been marked by imperfections but reaffirmed her dedication to ensuring equal justice and protecting civil liberties, particularly in matters pertaining to public discourse.

The implications of her resignation are significant for the Hillsborough judicial landscape, as it raises questions about accountability within the judiciary. Jacobs’ exit, particularly after such serious findings against her, illustrates the challenges judges face in maintaining public trust amid electoral contests that increasingly intersect with heated political debates.

Jacobs thanked the voters of Hillsborough County for their support during her term, expressing regret that her judicial career had to conclude in this manner. Her resignation serves as a stark reminder of the ethical responsibilities that judicial candidates and incumbents bear and the potential consequences of failing to uphold these standards.

This development marks a notable moment in Florida’s judicial system, spotlighting the ongoing discourse around judicial independence and the influence of political issues on judicial elections. The situation remains fluid, and further updates are anticipated as the Florida Supreme Court deliberates on the panel’s findings and recommendations.