It's hard to believe I am giving a government building 5 stars but this was actually the best government related experience I've ever had.
I was here for jury duty. My last experience with jury duty was at least 12 years ago and in the old building which was a completely different experience.
This new courthouse is beautiful. There is a large lobby on the first floor and a total of 8 floors. Jury gathering room is on the 5th floor. The elevators are spacious.
Checking into the jury holding room was a breeze and the staff was so friendly and helpful. The room is a big change from the other building. There are 3 sections of the room with movie theatre style seating, a break room, a game room, a business center and a quiet room. The staff pointed out that many of these amenities were paid by grants and not tax dollars
They show movies here, they have free Wifi and have free popcorn in the afternoon.
If you get called for a jury, the selection process can be long and tiresome. That was my biggest complaint. My 2nd biggest complaint were the chair for jurors in the courtroom were uncomfortable for a tall person. I felt like I was sitting on the floor and the back of the chair leaned back quite far and squeaked.
The bailiffs were great. Both I dealt with had a great sense of humor and the people on the jury I served on were also a pleasure to be around.
After the trial, the judge came in to talk to the jury about the process.
I actually enjoyed serving on this jury and doing my duty as a citizen and enjoyed this whole experience!