Program Summary
Teen Court is a justice program managed by teens for teens with appropriate levels of supervision and oversight. Teen Court has volunteer judges from the courts and volunteer attorneys from the State’s Attorney’s office to operate and oversee the court. It is an alternative justice system that offers teenage offenders an important opportunity to learn from their mistakes without acquiring a criminal record. The purpose of Teen Court is to prevent the pattern of criminal behavior in juveniles by promoting self-esteem, motivation for self-improvement and forming a healthy attitude towards authority figures. In addition, the goal of Teen Court is to prevent youth from becoming formally involved with the juvenile justice system, i.e. with a criminal or delinquent record. Furthermore, Teen Court provides an educational element for the offender as well as for the teen volunteers. It exposes the youth (volunteers and respondents) to the various employment opportunities in the legal system i.e. Court Bailiff, Prosecuting & Defense Attorney, Judge, Court Stenographer, etc.
Target Population
First time juvenile offenders & juvenile offenders with non-violent offenses referred through DJS or local law enforcement.
Data Discussion
Due to significant staff transitions, FY16 data reflects the months of July 2015-April 2016. Data for the months of May and July 2016 could not be obtained.
Measures
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