The Law Courts

Nestled in the heart of Wolverhampton, the historic Law Courts stand as a testament to the city's rich architectural and civic heritage. This Grade II listed building, originally known as the Town Hall, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past while continuing to serve the community in the present day.

The Birth of a Landmark

The story of the Law Courts begins in the mid-19th century when the need for a new municipal building became apparent. The original town hall, located in what is now Queen Square, had served the city since around 1700, but by the 1860s, it was clear that a more modern facility was required. In 1865, the then-mayor Henry Hartley Fowler spearheaded the initiative to construct a new town hall. The chosen site, previously occupied by the Red Lion Inn, was purchased and cleared to make way for this ambitious project.

Architectural Grandeur

Designed by the renowned architect Ernest Bates, the Law Courts were constructed in the Renaissance style, a popular architectural choice of the time. The building, completed by local contractor Philip Horsman, was officially opened on 19 October 1871. The façade of the building is particularly striking, featuring a 15-bay main frontage made of Cefn sandstone. The ground floor is adorned with segmental-headed windows, while the first floor boasts elegant round-headed windows. At roof level, pavilions add to the building's grandeur.

The central entrance, flanked by paired pilasters, leads to a stone balcony at the first-floor level. This balcony, originally connected to the Mayor's Parlour, is decorated with the borough's coat of arms. Above the balcony, a clock made by T. Cooke & Sons of York adds a touch of timeless elegance to the structure.

Inside the Law Courts

Step inside the Law Courts, and you are greeted by a vestibule that leads to an octagonal, domed central hall. This impressive space provides access to various important rooms within the building. To the right, you'll find the council chamber, while the session court is located to the left. Straight ahead lies the police court, a reminder of the building's multifaceted role in the community.

Offices for the town clerk, treasurer, surveyor, and other municipal officers were also housed within the building, as were offices for the Recorder and other court officials. The basement level contained 34 cells for prisoners, and at the rear of the building, police barracks and exercise yards were provided for the prisoners.

A Centre of Civic Life

For many years, the Law Courts served as the meeting place for the local municipal borough council. In 1889, Wolverhampton achieved county borough status, further cementing the building's importance in the city's civic life. On 3 June 1969, the Queen Mother visited the town hall, meeting with civic leaders and adding a touch of royal prestige to the building's storied history.

Following the re-organization associated with the Local Government Act of 1972, the building briefly became the headquarters of the Wolverhampton Metropolitan Borough Council. However, in 1978, the council moved to the new Wolverhampton Civic Centre, and the old town hall transitioned to its current role as the home of the Wolverhampton Law Courts.

Modern-Day Law Courts

Today, the Law Courts primarily serve as the local home of the magistrates' courts. While Wolverhampton Crown Court moved to the new Wolverhampton Combined Court Centre in Pipers Row in 1991, the Law Courts continue to play a vital role in the administration of justice in the city. A proposal to move the magistrates' courts to a new complex in Darlington Street was considered in 2010 but was ultimately deemed uneconomical. As a result, the Law Courts remain a bustling hub of legal activity.

Art and Heritage

Inside the Law Courts, visitors can find a significant piece of Wolverhampton's artistic heritage: a large statue of the city's first mayor, George Benjamin Thorneycroft. Sculpted by Thomas Thornycroft in 1851, the statue was later installed within an alcove at the head of the staircase, where it continues to watch over the building's daily activities.

In conclusion, the Law Courts in Wolverhampton are not just a building; they are a living piece of the city's history, a place where past and present converge. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious visitor, a visit to the Law Courts offers a unique and enriching experience. So, next time you find yourself in Wolverhampton, take a moment to admire this remarkable landmark and reflect on the many stories it has to tell.