NCJ Number
167102
Date Published
1997
Length
13 pages
Annotation
Following an overview of the teen court concept and process, this paper describes the operation and benefits of the Franklin County (Kentucky) Teen Court, which stemmed from the State's law- related education (LRE) initiative.
Abstract
As a dispositional alternative, Franklin County's Teen Court provides an opportunity for first-time juvenile offenders to participate in a less formal court process. As part of the State's LRE effort, the program provides both defendants and participants an important lesson in civic education. The goals of teen court are consistent with those of LRE. The interaction with peers provides a means of instilling accountability. Teen court defendants must appear in court, explain their actions, complete the sentences assigned to them, and return for jury duty. When defendants become jurors and must decide the fate of fellow teens, they are challenged to apply their knowledge and insight in a responsible decision. Teen court is a valuable medium for extending the benefits of LRE to juvenile justice populations, because it encourages accountability for one's actions and develops respect for the justice system. The program extends the benefits of LRE to other participating youth as well. Teen court participants receive a valuable lesson in citizenship; defendants receive a dispositional alternative that emphasizes both accountability and diversion. LRE topics, group discussions, and encounters with community leaders are enhanced when teens are involved in an actual legal process. Participants learn lessons in rights and responsibilities in a democratic society; they learn about their own abilities and interests; and they begin to build associations with peers who make positive choices. 2 notes and 11 references