Many of architect William “Bill” Morgan’s buildings were inspired by the monumental, masonry structures of Mayan and other pre-Columbian cultures. The Courthouse is one of his more prominent civic commissions. With its textured raw concrete façade and a strong design language with a playful use of columns and stepped, partly open levels it can be classified as Brutalist. Among the building’s most striking feature is an open corner that visually and physically connects to an exterior, public courtyard.

Judges and attorneys have long complained of roof leaks, flooding and space constraints at the 40-year-old courthouse. Since 2019, the building is planned to be replaced for a new facility.