Teen Court is an excellent way for young people to get involved in their community, learn about the law, and develop leadership skills. Through volunteering for Teen Court, you can play the role of a jury member, youth attorney, foreperson, or bailiff in real cases. You will be equipped for these cases through detailed training from staff. Eligible students from 13-22 years old

No deadline (open throughout the year)

Exp: 3282022

Teen Court is a restorative justice program that offers an alternative to the traditional juvenile justice sanctions for youth who have committed a criminal offense or school violation. Research shows that youth who are formally prosecuted are much more likely to reoffend than those who are offered restorative justice programs like Teen Court.

Teen Court offers a second chance through a court process, deliberated by a jury of peers, which determines restorative activities that help youth take accountability for their actions and repair any harm to the community. These activities could include community service, restitution, written apology, verbal apology educational workshops, and jury services.

The Teen Court hearing sessions are held on Wednesdays and Thursdays of each week throughout the year. Additionally, when youth sign-up as a volunteer then they will receive a calendar and weekly texts about sessions

The initial offense is expunged from the young person's record because of their successful participation in this process.

Teen Court works due to great young people who volunteer their time and care. It is an excellent way for young people to get involved in their community, learn about the law, and develop leadership skills.

Must have their own transportation to travel to either or both volunteer locations at 3505 N. Washington Blvd, Indianapolis 46205 or 1121 Hospital Road, Franklin IN 46131

Through volunteering for Teen Court, you can play the role of a jury member, youth attorney, foreperson, or bailiff in real cases. You will be equipped for these cases through detailed training from staff.

Benefits of Volunteering:

• Volunteers participate in a hands-on approach in learning the juvenile justice system as well as become active participants in restorative justice practices

• Enhances leadership, critical thinking, public speaking, and collaborating skills

• Excellent way to meet and network with local adult attorneys

• Teen Court provides resume building opportunities in which volunteers can receive references and recommendation letters from Teen Court Staff as a product of their outstanding work

• Reach For Youth signs off on services learning hours for students As a volunteer, you will be regularly notified of any upcoming case hearings. Our caseload changes regularly depending on the week; so, this volunteer opportunity requires you to be flexible.

We will hold an informational session where you can get all your questions answered and help plan out your volunteer timeline with Reach For Youth. We will also set up a time for you and your legal guardian to complete the necessary paperwork and sign you up for a jury training. We will be consistently reachable during your time with us via email or Zoom call to make this experience as rewarding as possible. We are looking forward to working together!

Related Posts

Reach for Youth

For 48 years, Reach For Youth, Inc. has provided quality youth services and mental health programming to Central Indiana youth and their families. Our mental health and clinical services address important issues such as supporting academic and school success through our R.E.A.C.H. program and managing depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse. As a part of our restorative justice programming, Reach For Youth is home to a nationally recognized Teen Court program that brings youth who have committed an offense and trained youth volunteers together to provide a second chance. We empower youth and families to improve their lives through development programs, prevention and intervention services, and counseling. We believe that, no matter the circumstances, everyone deserves dignity and respect.


https://www.reachforyouth.org/
Previous
Previous

Youth Activities Directory

Next
Next

Youth Interior Design Forum: on campus