Youth court programs, also known as Teen Courts, have become an integral component of the juvenile justice system in communities across the United States. Though the basic premise of teen court has existed for some time, actual teen court programs have seen rapid expansion since the late 1990’s. There are approximately 1,300 youth courts functioning within the United States, and 10 that are currently operating in the state of Maryland.

Baltimore City Teen Court, (BCTC) is entering its thirteenth year of operation and has diverted 1,200 youth from the Department of Juvenile Services. BCTC has provided service learning opportunities for more then 600 Baltimore City middle and high School youth. There are several workable models of Teen Court including Adult Judge, Youth Judge, Youth Tribunal and Peer Jury. BCTC uses both the Adult Judge and Peer Jury model, where adults serve as the judge, and youth volunteers serve as bailiffs, jurors, clerks, and in some cases, attorneys. The youth jurors hear the facts, question the respondent, and deliberate in order to determine appropriate sanctions, which most often include Teen Court jury duty, community service, essays, and letters of apology.

Considered an alternative to the traditional juvenile justice system and school disciplinary code, Teen Court is offered to young offenders who have been charged with less serious crimes (e.g., shoplifting, loitering, disorderly conduct, second-degree assault). BCTC utilizes this principle of diversion, along with leadership development and education, to teach youth about the law and increase respect for the justice system. BCTC emphasizes self accountability, community restitution, and positive peer influence for youth respondents and volunteers.

The Youth Offender…
• Lives in Baltimore City
• Is 11-17 years old
• Is charged with a minor crime
• Has no more than 4 prior arrests for minor crimes
• Has a parent or guardian involved
• Must admit his or her guilt
The Youth Volunteer…
• Lives in Baltimore City
• Completes a mandatory "Law School" training
• Attends school regularly
• Remains trouble-free while participating in Teen Court
• Has a desire to improve self and community
What are advantages to Baltimore City Teen Court?
• Youth offenders are held accountable for their actions
• Youth offenders are guided in a positive direction without the stigma of a criminal record
• Positive peer pressure is created
• Youth volunteers learn important public speaking and critical thinking skills
• Youth volunteers earn Service Learning Hours, necessary for high school graduation
• Youth learn through their sanctions (for example, offenders are mandated to return for future teen court sessions to serve on the jury)