Why is Teen Court better than the regular process in the juvenile justice system?
Teen Court offers an alternative to the traditional juvenile justice system. It recognizes the power of positive peer pressure, which has proven to be very successful. Many previous Teen Court defendants return to Teen Court after completing their sentences to volunteer because Teen Court was a positive experience for them. Also, if Teen Court defendants complete their sentences properly within the allotted amount of time and do not commit another offense for six months after their hearing, the original charge is dismissed. Teen Court gives kids who made a mistake a second chance and the opportunity to learn and move forward.
