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Teen Court is often a voluntary alternative to the juvenile justice and criminal justice system for young people who have committed a crime or offense. Teen Court is designed to intervene in early anti-social, delinquent, and criminal behavior, and to reduce the incidence and prevent the escalation of such behavior. It strives to promote self esteem and imporvement, and to foster a healthy attitude toward authority. What happens in teen courts? Any youth who admits guilt to a crime or an offense, appears for a sentencing hearing before a jury of peers. The jury passes sentence once presented with evidence relevant to sentencing. Sentencing may include community service, letters of apology, essays, teen court jury duty, restitution, and participation in educational awareness classes. Teen Court cannot
sentence any youth to a detention
facility or jail.
Who participates? An adult serves as coordinator for the program. An offender, jurors and other youth may serve as judge, prosecutor, defender, bailiff and jury foreman. Types of cases handled by
Teen Court. Typical cases handled by Teen
Court include: shoplifting/theft; illegal alcohol possession; criminal
mischief; vandalism/property damage; possession of small amounts of
marijuana; disorderly conduct; and truancy.
Additional Information: Contact Antonia Hernandez, Teen Court Executive Director, 505.647.2154. |
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