A courtroom is usually organized with the judge’s bench at the front, where the judge sits. There are tables for the lawyers, a witness stand for people giving testimony, and seating for the public. The layout helps everyone see and hear what is happening.

Functionally, courtrooms are divided into two zones: the litigation (well) area and the public (spectator) areas. These areas are generally separated by a bar or low railing.

A courtroom should ideally be a neutral space, providing both the victim and accused a fair trial, and the prosecution and defense access to the same advantages. To do so, the design of the courtroom must meet the standards of adversarial theory, with the jury able to see and hear both the witness stand and advocates without obstruction.

The courtroom layout is deliberate. It's designed not only to impart the seriousness of the proceedings but also plays a practical role. The design allows the various participants—judges, jurors, attorneys, bailiffs, staff, witnesses, and spectators—to best hear and view the proceedings according to their roles.

The courtroom is the focal point of courthouse activity and provides an impartial setting for conducting most legal proceedings. The size and interior configuration of each courtroom may be based on the specific requirements of the types of hearings and trials to be held in that courtroom.