Exploring the New Travis County Civil and Family Courts Facility

In December 2022, the city of Austin introduced the new Travis County Civil and Family Courts Facility, a modernized 12-story district courthouse. Located at 1700 Guadalupe Street, this facility was a long-awaited project by members of the community.

With innovative advancements and enhanced efficiency, the new courthouse has positively impacted the local justice system. Keeping pace with the city’s growth and expansion. The Travis County District Courthouse features 25 courtrooms, and a law library, among many other amenities.

While the new addition of a new district courthouse is an exciting development, we understand that navigating the new facility may be daunting for some visitors. Let’s explore further and learn more about the benefits, features, and history of the Travis County District Courthouse.

Built in 1931, the Heman Marion Sweatt Courthouse served the city of Austin for nearly 100 years. Heman Marion Sweatt, an American civil rights activist, fought against segregation in public education and paved the path for the success of the Brown v. Board of Education case. The naming of the courthouse commemorated and honored his monumental contributions.

Originally constructed to support three courtrooms and a jail, the courthouse underwent several renovations in the early 1960s.

Unfortunately, after being recognized as a historical landmark in 2005, the building could no longer be modified for expansion. Soon, the community agreed that the facility could no longer serve the growing community.

In August 2015, the Travis County Commissioners Court agreed to place a $287 million proposal on the November 3rd ballot, created with the intention of constructing a new district courthouse for civil and family cases.

However, the proposal was rejected, and it wasn’t until 2018 that Travis County established an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) with Travis County Courthouse Development Partners, LLC, for a build-to-suit real estate transaction.

Upon finalizing the location and architectural design, construction began in 2019. Despite challenges with the COVID-19 pandemic, the project was completed by 2022.

Now, almost a decade later, the new Travis County Civil and Family Courthouse is open to support the growing Austin community.

The Travis County Civil and Family Courts Facility was built to serve the growing Austin community for years to come. Efficiency and accessibility were at the forefront of the architectural design.

Wide walkways and an expansive wood-veneered ceiling greet visitors at the courthouse entrance. Before entering the 12-story building, you will likely encounter the reconstructed monument of William B. Travis’s doorway to his former residence at 405 West 18th Street. Travis County, named in honor of Texas Commander William B. Travis, pays homage to the historical figure using the original limestone and brick.

William B. Travis’s old doorway to his former residence at 405 West 18th Street in Austin, Texas.

In addition to the outdoor portion of the facility, the Travis County District Courthouse also includes a community plaza with a shaded walkway, bench seating, and several tables and chairs to enjoy a quick lunch or review court paperwork.

Meanwhile, inside the courthouse, you can view downtown Austin through large unobstructed glass windows. Digitized signage throughout the facility offers visitors comprehensive information regarding the time and location of dockets, an exterior map of the surrounding area, and an interior map of the building. The interior map details the location of civil and family courts and other amenities such as multi-purpose conference rooms, passport services, a cafeteria, and a law library.

The new district courthouse has positively impacted Travis County Residents. From the increased number of courtrooms to the addition of the Travis County Law Library, residents now have the space and resources to collaboratively work with their legal counsel to inform and educate themselves before appearing in court.

The Travis County District Courthouse is an essential addition to the community. It meets changing needs and guarantees continued functionality and relevance for years to come. Its extensive design and strategic planning ensure its significance in the future. Making the district courthouse a valuable asset for current and future Travis County residents.

If you need an expert opinion before appearing in court, please consult with a knowledgeable attorney.