Everett McKinley Dirksen United States Courthouse facts for kids
The Everett McKinley Dirksen United States Courthouse, often called the Dirksen Federal Building, is a very tall building, known as a skyscraper, located in downtown Chicago, Illinois. It was designed by a famous architect named Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and finished in 1964. The building stands 384 feet (117 meters) tall and has 30 floors. It was named after Everett Dirksen, who was an important U.S. Congressman and Senator.
This building is a busy place where many parts of the United States government work. It houses several important courts and offices that help make sure laws are followed and justice is served.
Contents
What is the Dirksen Federal Building?
The Dirksen Federal Building is a key part of the Chicago skyline. It is a tall, impressive structure that shows off a special kind of building design. This style is known for being very modern and using lots of glass and steel.
The building's design was created by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. He was a very famous architect from Germany. He moved to the United States and became known for his simple, strong, and elegant buildings. The Dirksen Building is a great example of his work.
Who was Everett Dirksen?
The building is named after Everett Dirksen. He was a very important person in American politics. Dirksen was from Illinois, the same state where the building is located.
He served for many years in the United States House of Representatives. This is one of the two main groups that make laws for the country. Later, he became a Senator. Senators also help make laws and represent their states. Everett Dirksen was known for his strong voice and his ability to work with people from different political groups.
What Happens Inside the Building?
The Dirksen Federal Building is a hub for legal and government activities. Many important offices and courts are located here. They all play a role in how laws are handled in the United States.
Courts and Justice
The building is home to several important courts. These courts help solve disagreements and make sure laws are followed.
- The United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit hears cases that have already been decided by lower courts. They check if the law was applied correctly.
- The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois is where many federal cases start. This includes cases about federal laws.
- The United States Bankruptcy Court helps people and businesses who are having serious financial problems.
Other Important Offices
Besides the courts, other federal agencies also have offices here. They support the work of the courts and help the government run smoothly.
- The United States Marshal for the Northern District of Illinois helps keep the courts safe. They also transport people and protect judges.
- The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois represents the United States government in court. They work on cases that involve federal laws.
- The Federal Public Defender provides legal help to people who cannot afford a lawyer. They make sure everyone has a fair chance in court.
- The United States Probation Service helps supervise people who have been released from prison. They make sure these individuals follow rules set by the court.
- The United States Trustee works to oversee bankruptcy cases. They make sure the process is fair and follows the law.
Images for kids
-
Dirksen Building detail
-
US Post Office Loop Station at the Dirksen Building. Photo by Carol M. Highsmith
