Courthouses are more than just buildings where legal proceedings take place; they play a pivotal role in urban planning. Courthouse design and placement can significantly impact the fabric of a city, influencing everything from civic identity to community accessibility and engagement. Courthouses...

In recent years, inclusivity has emerged as a core value that is at the forefront of the planning profession. An inclusive built environment provides an experience that accommodates all user groups regardless of age, size, ability, disability, or background. 

As a court planner, I’ve visited many courthouses that are relics from a prior era that no longer meet the court's needs today. I’ve also toured a smaller number of newer courthouses designed to adapt and evolve as the court and community's needs change. In this article, I’ll discuss a few...

Since I’ve worked as a courthouse planner for most of my career, the concept of universal design has been drilled into me. Universal design is the notion that, to the greatest extent possible, the built environment should provide an experience that accommodates all user groups, regardless of age,...

First Amendment auditors are individuals who conduct video recordings and photography in government buildings or public spaces. They do so to test and document the protection of their First Amendment rights, which include freedom of speech and freedom of the press.