Baltimore County Circuit Court Jury Assembly Renovation

North Point Builders was the general contractor for the 14,000-square-foot Baltimore Circuit Court Jury Assembly renovation in Towson, Maryland. This renovation revitalized the first floor of the courthouse, enhancing the jury selection process and overall experience for jurors, judges, and staff. Calling in 80 to 150 people daily for jury duty, the newly expanded jury assembly space offers a comfortable environment, that also allows multiple jury selections to happen at once. One of the most important aspects of this renovation is its versatility. The large jury assembly area was equipped to be converted into three private rooms, each with its own judge’s bench, allowing for more streamlined proceedings. Additionally, the inclusion of two voir dire rooms provides a soundproof environment where potential jurors can be questioned privately, maintaining impartiality.

The emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility is evident throughout the project. The incorporation of five gender-neutral bathrooms and a lactation room underscores a commitment to accommodating the needs of jurors and staff. Separate elevator access for the public, judges, and inmates ensures efficient movement within the courthouse, enhancing both security and convenience. In addition, there are also three holding cells, a private judges’ office, court administrators’ offices, and a vending area. Additional features include the simulated stone countertops, terrazzo flooring, wood veneer architectural cabinets, the addition of an ADA chairlift to one of the judges’ benches, renovation of the stairway and entrance to the Jury Assembly, and the addition of a chair rail to the jury rooms and voir dire rooms.

Completed over 10 months and within an occupied public facility, this project demanded careful coordination with ongoing activities and necessitated required work during off-hours to minimize disruptions. The restricted access for construction posed a significant challenge, requiring innovative solutions to ensure seamless progress. As a secure facility, stringent background checks were necessary, emphasizing the importance of security throughout construction.

With this newly renovated space, Baltimore County welcomes a new era of jury service—defined by comfort, efficiency, and respect for the vital role jurors fulfill in our democratic process.