As county courthouses go, this one gets a couple stars for a simple layout, but it pretty much has to stop there. This is an older courthouse that is getting fairly outdated and crowded for the usual docket lineup on any given day of the week.
As is usual now, the front door greets you with an immediate metal detector set up combined with an conveyor belt for scanning pocketbooks and other bags. A deputy will pat you down in the event you set alarms off.
After that, it's pretty simple. To your right are the various clerk's offices separated by division: criminal, civil, and special proceedings. To your left is a single long hallway that takes you to the various courtrooms. Signage is deplorable, and you'd be wise to check the printed paper dockets outside each courtroom to make sure you are in the right place. Courtroom assignments can change, so don't ever assume you know where you'll be.
If in doubt, it's always wise to go check back at the clerk's office. Being a smaller county, these staff here can usually take the time to look up your case and tell you where you need to be and when you need to be there.
The courtrooms themselves are pretty small and cramped here, so expect to be shoulder to shoulder with your fellow citizens, joining for a day of justice in action. The good news is that being so small, it's pretty easy to hear what's happening up at the bench with the judge and clerks.
Parking is always an interesting endeavor here. There is a small lot to the right of the courthouse and on just across the street that provides ample free parking. These small lots tend to fill up fast, and then you're left with street options and various amount of time you can stay parked for free. Don't park in the businesses just across the street, though, as they are well known for towing non-customers. read more
