NCJ Number
76223
Date Published
1980
Length
55 pages
Annotation
This report contains an analysis of court facility planning factors and suggestions for improving the circuit court facilities of Prince George's County, Md.
Abstract
The analysis was conducted by the criminal justice facilities planner at the request of the circuit court administrator for the seventh circuit. Technical assistance was needed to examine the courthouse and its present renovation plans in relation to changes made since the 1976 plan. As a result of three site visits, the consultant has identified several factors bearing on the utility of the present long-range facility plan. The consultant found that circuit court caseloads have been growing steadily for at least 20 years and show no signs of slackening. Time is critical; and adequate facility must be ready by the time the need materializes, perhaps as soon as 10 years from now. The total space needed to house all court-related activities cannot new be found in the courthouse and cannot be added by any practical means. Thus, a quantitative and detailed planning study of long-range needs should be commissioned. The study should strongly consider the construction of an annex to the existing courthouse in the adjoining parking lot. The annex should be large enough to satisfy at least 20 years of projected growth in its initial stage of construction. In addition, the existing facility should be improved by upgrading its mechanical and electrical systems and by adding courtrooms only where they are most feasible. The circuit court should remain aware of developments in the Upper Marlboro Treatment Area Plan and have the annex incorporated in the plan. Circuit court expansion plans must be developed quickly so that possible conflicts with the district court can be resolved. Appendixes present records management recommendations, tabular and graphic data, and floor plans. (Author abstract modified)