On a typical monday, the Justice Center in Bowling Green would be full of people going to court, but not today.

For the first time in the era of the modern court system, courts are closed for a budget furlough day.

The Kentucky Administrative Office of the Courts chose to create the state-wide closure for those three days so non-elected court personnel could be furloughed for budget balancing.

Some officials feel that the closure effects the government's obligation to its citizens.

"The primary purpose of government is protection of its people," said Warren County Commonwealth Attorney Christopher Cohron.

Due to the closure, not only is there no court or any drivers licenses issued, but deputy clerks cannot process bonds or issue release orders.

The supreme court also suspended the rule requiring pretrial officers to interview a defendant within 12 hours of incarceration. This adjustment has officials questioning the process.

"Justice delayed is justice denied. That is a common saying. If they are charged with a crime, they may still be in jail right now because they haven't had the oppotunity to see the judge, and that's not fair," said Warren County Attorney Amy Milliken.

Attorneys are also unable to file paperwork, and some of their clients are feeling the heat from the 12 hour rule suspension.

"He was picked up on some charges and he's in jail, and now we can't talk to any prosecutors until tomorrow," said Bowling Green attorney Phillip Kimbel.

Although they understand the need to deal with the budget, officials are saying that the closure is an inconvenience to anyone involved in the court system.

"These are court days that we won't ever be able to make up. mondays are by far the busiest days. I'd much rather on a monday, be in a suit and tie in court than in a golf shirt doing paperwork," said Cohron.

Today won't the be last furlough day as two more are scheduled for Sept. 4 and Oct. 15.