Federal Public Defenders Move to Historic LA Times Building

BREAKING: The Federal Public Defenders are relocating to the iconic former LA Times building in downtown Los Angeles. The General Services Administration (GSA) has just signed a significant 74,056-square-foot lease at 145 S. Spring Street, marking a pivotal moment for the legal community in the area.

This new office space will serve the Federal Public Defenders in the Central District of California, with a planned move set for the first quarter of 2027. The historic 10-story building, once the heart of the L.A. Times, is renowned for its stunning architecture and central location, making it an ideal choice for legal operations.

Peter Hajimihalis, senior managing director at JLL, noted the strategic advantages of the location. “The GSA was attracted to the building due to its proximity to courthouses, landlord’s ability to fund and perform tenant improvements, and overall competitive economics on the lease,” he stated.

The lease was facilitated by JLL, with Hajimihalis leading a team that included James Malone and Dana Vargas, alongside Howard Traul from JLL’s Government Investor Services team. The landlord, Onni Group, was represented by its in-house leasing team including Neal Linthicum and Malcolm Kluth. The GSA’s interests were managed by Timothy Pavek at Carpenter/Robbins Commercial Real Estate Inc.

The 145 S. Spring Street location spans 243,749 square feet and offers not only breathtaking views of downtown Los Angeles but also impressive lobbies and ample parking. This move represents a commitment to enhancing access to legal services in a highly accessible part of the city.

As the GSA transitions to this historic site, the impact on the local community and legal landscape is anticipated to be profound. The relocation is expected to streamline operations and improve service delivery for Federal Public Defenders, ultimately benefiting those who rely on their services.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, as the GSA prepares for a significant change that will reshape the legal landscape in Los Angeles. This historic move is more than just a change of address; it signals a renewed commitment to justice and public service in the heart of the city.