Genesee County Legal Resource Center

Project Overview

The existing Legal Resource Center was outdated and no longer aligned with the County’s vision for accessible, modern legal support. Originally designed as a traditional law library filled with legal texts and case precedents, the space felt intimidating and overly complex—especially for individuals unfamiliar with the civil court system. With a growing number of residents facing civil legal issues without legal representation, the County sought to transform the space into a welcoming, tech-forward environment that could support a new self-help model using AI tools and legal staff guidance.

Solution

Our team reimagined the Legal Resource Center as an open, transparent, and approachable environment. The design prioritizes visibility and accessibility, encouraging patrons to engage with staff and utilize digital resources confidently. The new layout supports the County’s self-help legal services system, offering a blend of technology and human support to guide users through civil legal processes.

Design Highlights:

• Centralized Paralegal Offices: Two glass-walled offices anchor the center of the space, allowing staff to monitor activity and remain approachable. When opened, these private offices transform into alcoves—inviting patrons to step in for assistance.
• Self-Help Kiosks: Strategically placed kiosks provide access to Michigan Legal Help and other AI-powered tools, enabling users to research and prepare legal documents independently.

Supportive Adjacencies:

• Offices for LS-EM, YWCA, County Clerk, and the Director are located along the right-hand side.
• Private transitory offices line the north wall, offering confidential meeting space for patrons and legal counsel.
• A dedicated mediation room and adjacent mediation office support conflict resolution services within the same footprint.

Impact

The renovated Legal Resource Center is more than a physical upgrade—it’s a shift in how justice is accessed in Genesee County. By blending thoughtful design with digital innovation, the space empowers individuals to navigate the legal system with confidence and dignity.