NCJ Number
90151
Date Published
1981
Length
95 pages
Annotation
This report presents guidelines to assist in the design, construction, and allocation of space in Wisconsin courthouses.
Abstract
Guidelines criteria explain the concepts of sectoring within the courthouse; describe the elements needed in the structure, their size, and arrangement; discuss major factors which may affect specific recommendations; and outline code requirements. The report argues that good planning for trial court facilities begins with a recognition that some judicially-related rooms and spaces ought to be designated as private areas, e.g., the jury deliberation room, and that other spaces should be classified as public areas, e.g., the clerk of court's main office. The recommendations take into account the need for special circulation patterns between private spaces and public spaces, the special operating procedures of the trial courts, and the differing needs of counties of varied sizes. Recommendations on staff and space requirements are provided for all courthouses, from the smallest to the largest. A summary chart presents staff and space guidelines by courthouse classification.