Teen Court is a diversion program for first time misdemeanor offenders (ages 8-17), which allows offenders to participate in a court conducted by his or her peers instead of going through the customary juvenile court. The youthful offender admits his or her guilt and is sanctioned by a jury of his or her peers. Juveniles have 30-90 days to comply with sanctions. If they do so successfully, the youth will not have a criminal record. If the defendant fails any part of Teen Court, their case is automatically returned to Juvenile Court. Teen Court provides immediate and meaningful consequences. Those who are accepted, and who successfully complete the program, will not be adjudicated delinquent and will be given the opportunity to have their juvenile record expunged (certain charges do not qualify for expungement).
Office of State Attorney
Larry Basford, State Attorney
14th Judicial Circuit
