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Final day of court held in Courthouse Melodie Phelps News Editor District Court on Thursday was a lot like many other days of District Court. While District Judge Mike Lawson reviewed cases and rendered decisions like any other day he is on the bench in Wayne County, he knew that this day was a little different. Thursday marked the end of an era at the Wayne County Courthouse, as his final jury case of the day marked the last time that any court proceeding will be held in the old building. The new Wayne County Justice Center officially opens March 14 and there arenıt any court proceedings scheduled next week, since it has been designated as time to move into the new facility. ³The bailiff, Deputy David Koontz, opened court here for the last time this morning, and I called court to order for the last time in this building,² said Lawson. ³This is the last jury trial in this old building.² Officials said that the first trial was held in the building in 1950. Fifty-five years later, Lawson said that he had mixed emotions about the move. ³I am truly honored to have been a judge here in this old building. It is a part of history,² said Lawson. ³At the same time I am excited about the new facility, and the benefit it will have for the residents of Wayne County.² The new Justice Center will include new, large district and circuit courtrooms, as well as offices related to court proceedings. Judges will have their own offices in the facility, which is definitely a change from the current situation. ³I have to commend Circuit Clerk Richard Morrow, his staff, and Judge Miniard. They have worked with me to allow us the use of this upstairs courtroom for proceedings.² The last Circuit Court proceeding was held in the old building on Wednesday, March 2. Morrow noted that the next day for court will be March 14 in the new Justice Center. Morrowıs office will be closed throughout this week, but his staff will be busy moving. Morrow said the move would be a ³big job,² noting that Jailer Ray Upchurch and a crew of inmates will help them with the task. ³Weıve been getting ready,² said Morrow, as he looked around at the boxes that have already been filled. He noted that there will be changes his staff will have to make in the filing system. His staff will also receive training this week on the new DVD recording system that is in place for District Court. Add a comment |
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