Judge Kristine Van Vorst: Professional Background and Legal Expertise

The Hon. Kristine Van Vorst is a judge for the Alachua County Court in the 8th Judicial Circuit of Florida. She was appointed to the bench by former Governor Rick Scott in September 2017, filling the vacancy created by the elevation of the Hon. Susanne Wilson Bullard to the 8th Judicial Circuit Court.

Van Vorst has presided over County Civil Divison V, Mental Health Divison S, and Civil Traffic matters.

Prior to her appointment, she served as a general magistrate and hearing officer for the 8th Judicial Circuit, having held the positions since 2015. During that time, Van Vorst handled mortgage, foreclosure, child support, and mental health cases. Before that, she had managed her own private solo practice in Alachua County.

She received a B.A. in business administration from the University of Florida in 1999. Van Vorst went on to complete a J.D. at the University of Florida, Fredric G. Levin College of Law, in 2002.

Her memberships have included the James C. Adkins American Inns of Court. Van Vorst has also been involved with the Alachua County public schools (volunteer), the Queen of Peace Catholic Academy (board member), and the Gainesville Sunrise Rotary.

At the time of her appointment, she had resided in Gainesville, Florida, for twenty years. Van Vorst and her husband, Eric, have three children.