The mission of the Teen Court program is to join together as a council of professional and community members to find ways to enhance positive youth and family development. The Teen Court serves to modify behavior of youthful, first-time offenders by combining positive peer pressure and involvement within our counties, families, schools and religious organizations to promote youth development and restorative justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Teen Court?
A: Teen Court offers eligible youth an alternative to appearing in Juvenile Court. They have an opportunity to receive a meaningful sentence from a jury of their peers.
Q: Why a Teen Court?
A: Teen Court offers eligible youth an opportunity to take responsibility for their actions. It provides positive peer pressure with community based consequences.
Q: Who is eligible?
A: Youth who commit first time violations of offenses such as -
- Disorderly conduct
- No valid driver’s license
- Damage to property/vandalism
- Shoplifting/Retail theft
- Trespassing
- DNR/Park offenses, littering, curfew
- Possession of alcohol
- Possession of tobacco
- Possession of marijuana
- Truancy
- Obstruction
Referrals for Teen Court will come from the court or the Juvenile Court Officers.
Youth must admit guilt to the offense.
Youth must comply with the Teen Court sentence or be returned to court.
Youth must have a parent or guardian accompany them to Teen Court.
Q: Who benefits from Teen Court?
A: Youth are given an opportunity for a real second chance to prove that mistakes can be turned into positive choices. When juvenile offenders successfully complete their Teen Court sentence, they will have their case dismissed.
Parents of the offender are no longer held totally accountable. The juvenile becomes responsible for his/her actions.
Community service projects will be more meaningful to the youth and their respective communities.
The community is able to see teens being held accountable for their actions.
Youth volunteers gain a sense of responsibility and they encourage peers to stop behaviors that reflect all teens. They also have the opportunity to participate in the juvenile justice system and examine possible career opportunities.
Adult volunteers are given the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our youth.