Chief Justice details courthouse projects, security audit and court modernization plans

Chief Justice Seitz told the committee the judicial branch’s FY27 capital requests are relatively modest compared with prior years, but he emphasized two priorities: courthouse security upgrades and a multi‑year technology modernization.

Seitz reviewed recent capital developments: the Sussex County Family Courthouse is now open and occupied; the Kent County courthouse parking garage and related work should be ready for occupancy this summer; and the Custom House buildout in Wilmington is under construction with projected substantial completion late this fall and move‑in after the new year. He said moving into the Custom House will consolidate judicial operations and save the state about $800,000 a year in rent.

On security, Seitz described a statewide judicial security audit and said recommendations include some “low‑hanging fruit” that can be implemented quickly with seed money. The judiciary has requested an additional $500,000 to its minor capital improvements account to begin implementing camera upgrades and other targeted security measures; Seitz said the audit also points to larger, future possibilities such as a statewide security operation center that could serve multiple branches of government and would require a more detailed analysis and funding.

Seitz also outlined a software and records modernization program. Phase 1 of the judiciary’s document and case‑management replacement will go live this December, and a second phase is planned for December 2028. He asked for patience from legislators on expanding text‑notification or reminder programs while the broader modernization effort is underway.

Why it matters: courthouse security concerns have become more urgent nationally and locally. The judiciary’s combination of near‑term camera and access improvements with long‑term software modernization could affect court operations and public access to justice.

What’s next: the committee will consider the judiciary asks during FY27 budget deliberations; Seitz said more capital proposals tied to security and statewide operations will be presented in future budget cycles.