A malfunctioning sprinkler head in the newly completed Gartin Justice Building in downtown Jackson is to blame for water damage to all four floors.

The Mississippi Supreme Court and Mississippi Court of Appeals had just moved in to the new facility last February. Court proceedings have ceased for the time being. But there are bigger concerns.

From the outside, the building looks as it has for several months. Even inside, if not for the raised or moved furniture, fans are the only thing out of the ordinary.

"We actually went through water damage in the old building a few months back so we experienced it over there, too," said Chief Justice Jim Smith. "It is disheartening but that's life."

There is water damage to almost the entire east side of the building. Chief Justice Smith said there is no structural damage. The main concern is over thousands of pieces of paper. Employees are spending hours placing and replacing paper towels between each page.

The water originated outside fourth floor offices. The state fire marshal is investigating. But as for a cause that is still to be determined.

The Gartin Justice Building is a $38 million project that took seven years to finish. Now Justice Smith just hopes to have the entire staff back working by next week.