Attended a trial here as a fact witness. I have seen many types of courthouses before under similar circumstances. The Richard C Lee US Courthouse has an imposing and stately look to it from the outside. To enter this building you have to go through a security checkpoint. And except for attorneys, they do not allow cell phones or cameras within the building, so no photos for this review.
After I was cleared through security, artificial hip and all, I was shown to a small room that was reserved for use by the defense team that I was working with. I waited there to be called to testify in the courtroom nearby where the case was being heard.
This windowless room had a conference table and eight to ten chairs. With the door closed it was warm and stuffy and no thermostat in sight. Once I was called into the courtroom it was almost like going from the Sahara to Iceland! But I much preferred the icebox since I was wearing a suit and tie.
Like many other courthouses I have been in, this one is massive and impressive. There are the common wooden benches for seating and tables and chairs set for plaintiff and defense teams to present their cases. There is of course the jury box (some of you may have had experience with this if you have been called for jury duty) and witness stand where I did my part, and the "bench" or desk where the judge sits and a place in front for the court reporter. I almost hate to say it but if you've seen one courthouse, you've seen them all. read more