Twenty-seven years ago, the Orange County courtrooms and offices were scattered throughout numerous buildings in the city, posing a logistical challenge for anyone needing to pay a traffic ticket or attend a court proceeding on time. It was a situation that demanded change.
Under the direction of then-Orange County Chairwoman Linda Chapin and then-Chief Judge Emerson Thompson, the idea for a single courthouse building that would streamline access to the court and play a key role in Orlando’s growth, became a reality.
In 1997, the Orange County Courthouse as we know it today, emerged. Under the skilled guidance of lead architects Michel LeBoeuf and Jacki Hale of HLM Design Legacy Team, this monumental structure took shape, transforming the city’s landscape. Under the direction of then-Chief Judge Belvin Perry, occupancy of the building began shortly after.
The iconic silhouette of the Orange County Courthouse stands tall with 23 floor gracing Orlando’s skyline for over two decades. But it’s not just about aesthetics or even functionality; the courthouse has stood the test of time structurally.
In recognition of its enduring design and durability, the American Institute of Architects Orlando Chapter presented the Orange County Courthouse architects with an Award of Merit in the “Test of Time” category. The Test of Time Award recognizes structures over 25 years-old that maintain the structural integrity of their origin, even according to the architectural standards of today.
Today, under Mayor Jerry Demings and Chief Judge Lisa Munyon, the Orange County Courthouse now operates to capacity, hearing countless proceedings, cases, and stories in a single building. Not only does the courthouse stand out today as an iconic element to Orlando’s city skyline, but has continued to prove an invaluable asset to the community it has served for the past 27 years.