Youth Court
Youth court is alternative to formal court proceedings for youth who have been charged with an offense or are showing concerning behavior. Volunteers, ages 13 to 18, serve as jurors and courtroom personnel, to decide the disposition of cases in which the offenders have already admitted their guilt.
Those youth who go through Youth Court are held accountable for their actions, while at the same time, are able to keep their record clean and learn from their mistakes.
How does the Youth Court work?
Juvenile offenders are primarily referred to Youth Court by the East Central Juvenile Court. All youth court participants, who serve as jurors and courtroom personnel, are volunteers.
Prior to the court session, the juvenile and their parent/guardian meet with the Youth Court coordinator to discuss the program requirements and set a court date. The teenage jury then hears the case, asks questions and meets to determine the outcome.
The jury decides the consequence of the offense. Dispositions are to fit the offense, be educational and preventative. Typical dispositions include:
- Community action points
- Alcohol or drug awareness programs
- Youth court jury duty
- Apology to the victim
- Various educational programs
- Written essay
- Tutoring and mentoring programs
- Random acts of kindness
If the youth completes the terms of their disposition, no formal court record is kept of their offense. If they refuse to cooperate, their case is sent back to juvenile court for further action.
Volunteer Opportunities
Youth Court offers youth between the ages of 13 to 18 a unique and valuable way to experience courtroom procedure, learn about the legal system and build a resume of experience that can be used for job references, high school credits and college applications. Click here to check out Youth Court volunteer opportunities.
Contact us
Laurel Pipkin, Coordinator
Email: lpipkin@lssnd.org
1325 11th Street S.
Fargo, ND 58103
Phone: (701) 271-3253
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