Hamilton County Juvenile Court today celebrated the completion of a newly renovated and expanded lobby and reception area at the Juvenile Courthouse, improving safety, accessibility, and privacy for the children and families served by the court.

The renovated space features a separate entrance and exit, a dedicated Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office deputy station, and the Court’s first-ever ADA-accessible public restrooms, including a new family restroom and nursing station. The expansion also adds two conference rooms for training, meetings, and mediations, along with two private attorney-client meeting rooms.

“In 1945, no one could have imagined the challenges facing today’s youth,” said Hamilton County Juvenile Court Judge Rob Philyaw. “Thanks to the foundation established by the first Court Commission and our committed staff, we continue to meet the needs of today’s youth while preparing for tomorrow’s families. Together, we can make a difference in the life of a child, and these improvements will help us in that mission. I thank Mayor Wamp and the County Commission for recognizing the need to upgrade our aging courthouse to ensure the safety of our employees and those we serve.”

Established in 1945, Hamilton County Juvenile Court serves children and families in cases involving juvenile offenses, child custody, dependency and neglect, and other matters. The court also operates Recovery Court, Youth Court, and Safe Baby Court and is one of two juvenile courts in Tennessee with a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) department.

“These improvements make Juvenile Court safer and more accessible for children and families while giving Judge Philyaw and court staff a better space to serve our community,” said Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp. “Being good stewards of taxpayer dollars includes taking care of our existing facilities, and this renovation is an example of investing in the county’s essential services.”

Hamilton County Juvenile Court is located at 1600 E. Third Street in downtown Chattanooga.