THE state's neglected Supreme Court would be condemned if subjected to a safety inspection, lawyers claim.

The Law Society has called on Premier Jay Weatherill to draft a 10-year plan to revamp the historic building and the entire Victoria Square courts precinct.

Society president Ralph Bonig said that, for 11 years, successive state governments had ignored the need for:

BIGGER courtrooms with disabled access.

IMPROVED infrastructure, including modern audio-visual equipment.

REFURBISHED elevators connecting courtrooms with underground cells.

Mr Bonig said justice was being done in crumbling facilities that were the laughing stock of the nation.

"Our Supreme Court building is the worst of any superior court in Australia," he said.

"The facilities do not comply with modern occupational health, safety and workplace standards.

"If this was a minister's office, they would probably be condemned."

The Supreme Court's problems have been highlighted by the injuries to Chief Justice John Doyle. He must work from home as his court and chambers cannot be accessed by a wheelchair.

Mr Bonig yesterday said the situation was an embarrassment.

"That our Chief Justice is not able to access his chambers or any of the courtrooms whilst confined to a wheelchair is a disgrace," he said. "It is time that we, as a profession, demand far greater support from those who control the Government's finances in order to deliver cost-effective justice."

He said renovations also should encompass the ageing District Court Building.

The upgrade, he said, could pave the way for Chief Justice Doyle's plan to stream court cases live via the internet.

"It is time the Government committed to a long-term strategy," he said.

Attorney-General John Rau shared the Society's concerns but said operating a state Budget was "about balancing all the needs of the community across the state".

"There's no question that we are dealing with a 19th century heritage building which presents a range of challenges," he said.

"I have made no secret of my view that new facilities will ultimately be required which meet with current expectations. I agree it is an important issue."

http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/states-courts-are-worst-in-the-nation/story-e6frea6u-1226193925635