Newport Beach : Court Holds Open House to Celebrate Anniversary

Orange County Harbor Municipal Court celebrated its 10th anniversary Thursday by throwing its jail doors open--literally.

From noon until about 8 p.m., local residents were able to tour the eight courtrooms, hallways and empty cells, normally used to hold prisoners awaiting arraignment or other court appearances.

Commissioner Glenn Mahler of the court’s 2nd Division, which handles traffic violations, misdemeanor offenses and civil cases, said the court suspended its normal business for the afternoon to host the open house, which drew more than 100 visitors. “This has been in the planning for some time so we wouldn’t inconvenience anyone,” he said.

During the open house, Newport Beach officers offered lectures on drunk driving and Irvine police gave a radar demonstration. Mock trials and videotape presentations were also presented along with seminars on on how to file a small claims suit and how to secure homes against burglars. “Basically, this is an informative way to impart some legal information,” Mahler said.