Youth Court is an alternative approach to juvenile justice in which juvenile offenders are sentenced by a jury of their peers. Youth Court uses concepts such as positive peer influence, accountability, competency development and youth involvement to offer communities a prevention and early intervention program.

Young people serve as the judge, jury, prosecution, defense, bailiff and jury. They hear cases involving offenders between the ages of 7-15 who committed a misdemeanor or violation and admit their guilt. Youth Court then hears their case and decides on an appropriate sentence. Sentences can include community service restitution, essays, letters of apology, and jury duty.

Youth Court holds young people accountable for their actions and offers them an opportunity to learn from their mistakes.

Youth Court is another tool law enforcement and the community can use to address disruptive juvenile behavior.

For further information, call the Program Coordinator at 253-9795. There are no direct fees to the consumer for this program.

Youth Court is a program of