The COVID-19 pandemic significantly changed the judicial system and courthouse planning. Court administrators often ask which operational changes from the pandemic are still in use and how they affect space requirements for new courthouses. During the crisis, courts focused on administering justice safely and efficiently, making it difficult to predict lasting changes.
Now, with a few years of post-pandemic experience, it's clear that several innovations have endured. This blog will explore the most widely accepted trends and their impact on modern courthouse planning.
Increased acceptance of video arraignments and remote hearings
The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of video arraignments and remote hearings, reducing the need for large gallery spaces in courtrooms. With fewer attorneys and members of the public attending in person, courts require less seating. Additionally, the shift to virtual proceedings has significantly decreased the demand for holding cells in the courthouse’s central cellblock.
From a staffing and operational perspective, this trend has led to fewer trips between detention facilities and courthouses. As a result, law enforcement agencies save both time and money on staffing and vehicle maintenance.
Flexible courtroom scheduling and the use of "Zoom Rooms"
The rise of remote hearings has made courtroom scheduling more flexible, leading to the need for dedicated "Zoom Rooms" to accommodate virtual proceedings. These spaces allow for more efficient use of courthouse resources and help balance in-person and remote operations. While Zoom Rooms add new space requirements that didn’t exist before the pandemic, they can be offset by reducing the number of full-size courtrooms.
However, for this trend to be successful, court administration and the judiciary must be willing to update scheduling procedures. Collaboration is essential to avoid conflicts and ensure a smooth transition to a more hybrid courtroom model.
The rise of online services
The expansion of online services, from filing documents to paying fees, has significantly reduced courthouse foot traffic. People no longer need to visit in person as often, which has been especially beneficial in urban areas where congestion and long wait times were common. As a result, the need for large lobby and intake areas has diminished, leading to cost savings and a more efficient use of space. Those who still visit in person also benefit from a more streamlined experience.
Additionally, fewer visitors mean reduced security concerns, creating a safer environment for both court staff and the public. With less crowding, security personnel can focus more effectively on maintaining order, further enhancing courthouse safety.
Remote and hybrid work policies
With the growing acceptance of remote work in the public sector, the demand for traditional office spaces within courthouses has declined. Many courts have embraced flexible work arrangements, shifting toward shared spaces that support mobility rather than assigning fixed workstations. This approach allows for more efficient use of space while accommodating a hybrid workforce.
However, despite the adoption of hybrid work policies, some resistance remains to fully moving away from traditional office structures. While flexible work environments were expected to generate significant space savings, the reduction in office space within courthouses has not been as substantial as initially anticipated.
Impact on courthouse space planning
The design and planning of new courthouses will continue to evolve, shaped by innovative technology, adaptable spaces, and efficient resource management. The post-pandemic courthouse will be more dynamic and flexible, better suited to modern judicial needs while incorporating lessons learned during the pandemic.
The shift toward remote hearings and flexible spaces will likely result in smaller, more efficient courthouses. These innovations streamline operations and create opportunities for cost savings in construction and maintenance. Moving forward, courts must balance the need for traditional in-person functions with the growing demand for remote technology, flexible scheduling, and online services that are now integral to the judicial system.
