Come learn about the new unified family court model Thursday, November 6 from 9:25 AM – 10:40 AM, when Kimberly Kilgour with ZGF Architects will lead the discussion in session TB02 Therapeutic Justice: A New Family Justice Center Courthouse.
I had a chance to ask Kimberly a few questions prior to her session.
Can you summarize what the new unified family court model is?
The unified family court model involves combing judicial services with rehabilitation services to address issues such as drug addition, mental health, homelessness, and domestic violence. It involves offering services, support, and programs in a team approach to improve outcomes for participants. Court hearings are non-adversarial, with an emphasis on interaction and achievement of desired goals. Partnerships are formed among the courts, public agencies, and community-based organizations to provide services to participants placed in the court system, leading to greater accountability for offenders and better family outcomes. By co-locating many of the necessary support services in the same build as the courtrooms, it removes obstacles and makes it easier for participants to achieve their goals.
Can you give an example or two of how a therapeutic environment for patrons was created?
The court felt strongly that natural daylight and views were critical to creating an environment that decreased stress and improved morale for both users and employees. There is plenty of daylight in the public waiting areas, and windows throughout that offer glimpses of the grounds and surrounding community. The building offers a variety of waiting areas in front of each courtroom, as well as a café, an outdoor terrace on the third floor, and a public plaza in front of the courthouse. The various waiting areas are structured to accommodate a variety of needs, including families that want to sit together, individuals that need to be kept separate from each other, and places where individuals can find a quiet spot to get away from it all.
What role did the team's chemistry play in maintaining the client's expectations?
The construction manager was instrumental in delivering a project that net the client’s expectations. Getting subcontractor involvement early helped the design team to realize their goals, while keeping the project within budget.