To provide an alternative to juvenile court, to punish juvenile offenders for minor law violations, to provide a court forum operated by teens, and to encourage teens to demonstrate their capacity for self-government, responsible citizenship, and volunteerism. Juveniles must sign a waiver of speedy trial form, and their parents or guardians must participate in the process, appear for hearing, and agree to accept the sentence imposed. The Bay County Teen Court is a juvenile diversion program for first-time offenders who recognize the error of their ways. The program, which began in May 1994, serves the Bay County, Florida, area.
Bay County is a small urban community.
Teen Court is based on the philosophy that juveniles judged by a true jury of their peers are less likely to continue their unlawful behavior. With the help of teen jurors and attorneys, defendants in Teen Court achieve a true understanding of the consequences of breaking the law and are held completely accountable for their actions. Additionally, Teen Court provides a valuable learning opportunity for teenagers in Bay County. The students who serve as volunteer attorneys, clerks, bailiffs, and jurors are given a unique insight into the legal system and the inner workings of a courtroom. The program objectives are to rehabilitate misdemeanor first-time offenders, to hold them accountable, and to teach them the consequences of future criminal behavior.