Worn and tired, sharing space with county offices, most courthouses were built before there was a need to give much thought to security. About the only safeguards in many older courthouses is a means close to judges' benches for jurists quickly to exit courtrooms A few years ago, the Iowa Supreme Court's Commission on Courts in the 21st Century confirmed the that caseloads would rise dramatically, propelled by dissolutions, domestic abuse and drug cases. People now want decisions faster and at less cost. The commission voiced concern about the safety of court personnel in these times of violence and increased criminalization of behavior. Everyone wants more access to justice, in more ways.
Legislative bodies pass one unfunded mandate after another.
As we approach the new millennium, a program of rebuilding county courthouses needs to be started. While it is the counties that should do the building, they will need financial help from state and federal governments. Architects that understand the needs of judges, lawyers, litigants and the public are essential to the process. The dignity of our formal legal process should have visibility, integrity, stability and honor. Courthouses must be up to date and equipped to reinforce these ideals, both visually and functionally.