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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.
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
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.
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 bailiff 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
the Kankakee County States Attorney's office.
Successful completion of Teen Court requirements within
the specified time results in dismissal of the case and
no juvenile court record.
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