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JUVENILE JUSTICE BY A JURY OF THEIR PEERS KANKAKEE COUNTY
TEEN COURT (the old Kankakee Library Building) (815) 929-1111 Program Director: Christine Scivally
What is Teen Court? Teen Court is an alternative to a traditional juvenile court. Proceedings are for first time non-violent offenders. This program is based on the premise that young people respond positively to the influences of their peers.
Why Teen Court? Teen Court offers juveniles the option of participating in a diversion program that uses peer pressure and early intervention as its main tools in preventing recidivism. As an alternative to traditional Court programs, Teen Court will successfully hold youth accountable and educate them on the impact their actions have on others and themselves
Benefits of Teen Court Successful completion of Teen Court requirements within the specified time results in a clear record. Also, the youth becomes acquainted with the judicial system and experiences the satisfaction of contributing to the community.
How Teen Court Works Teen Court referrals are made by the local police agencies after reviewing
the police and probation reports, and the defendant's request and an agreement
to take part in Teen Court proceedings. Each defendant appears in court with
his/her parents and admits involvement with the charge. The baliff introduces
the defendant to the jurors and informs the jury of the charge. After the
prosecutor and the defense attorney each present their cases, the juvenile and
parents are given a chance to speak. The jury then deliberates and recommends
a sentence. The sentence is read and the juvenile and parents are given a
copy of the sentence. The juvenile then has 90 days within
which to complete the sentence. Failure to complete the sentence results in
the case being sent back to the arresting police department and may be brought
into the judicial system. BEHAVIOR CODE Teen Court prohibits chewing gum, use of tobacco, use of obscene language, and food or drink while on court property. Cell phones and pagers are not allowed in the court house. DRESS CODE Court is a formal, serious place demanding respect. The following dress code will be observed by all participants.
Teen Court reserves the right to refuse to hear cases from those who fail to abide by the above dress code. Also, Teen Court will refuse jury duty to those who file to adhere to the dress code.
INTERESTED TEENS, LOOKING FOR A CHALLENGE VOLUNTEER TO BE A PART OF TEEN COURT!
Check with your school counselor. You may be eligible for community service hours credit.
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City of Kankakee |
