Modernized UofL courtroom will serve new generation of lawyers

Completed in 1938, the main courtroom has been the heart of the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law for nearly a century.

With the advent of technology, the needs of legal education and practice have changed. Therefore, the law school faculty and administration are grateful to everyone who worked together to make it possible to renovate and modernize the courtroom, now dedicated as the Breit Courtroom.

“As the son of a bricklayer, I am humbled, and now honored, to have our name on the courtroom of one of the finest law schools in the country," said Marc Breit, who attended UofL law school and practices with Breit Law Office, PLLC.

With a full-service audio/visual system, a SMART podium, new décor and seating, the courtroom will primarily serve as additional classroom space. These updates provide new function and style while maintaining the historic feel of the original courtroom. Additional updates include a renovated entrance to the law school, remodeled restrooms and an updated jury/conference room with A/V capabilities.

"This courtroom is the centerpiece of the University of Louisville School of Law,” says Lars Smith, interim dean of the law school. “Future generations of law students will benefit from this state-of-the-art space.”

The courtroom has been the scene of historic moments, such as a speech from Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1967. Dozens of immigrants have become U.S. citizens during naturalization ceremonies there. And, the courtroom has served as a courtroom — most recently, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals heard oral arguments there, about six weeks before the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

View photos from the Breit Courtroom unveiling and dedication event.