When Youth Court receives a case it is called a referral. Typically, the youth that come to the Youth Court are first-time offenders who have never been in trouble before. Youth Court does not accept any youth who have been arrested for a felony. Most misdemeanors are acceptable for Youth Court. The youth that come to court must plea guilty to the crime they are being charged with and they have to agree to participate in Youth Court.
Court is voluntary.
Once a year, starting in January, the director recruits for membership of the court. The director contacts every high school within Jefferson County and makes arrangements to start the application procedure. Many schools provide an opportunity for the director to come and speak with interested candidates or entire class sessions. Applications are available at every high school in the county. Preference is given to 11th graders and then to 10th grade.