The primary goals of the Grandview Youth Court are to teach high-risk youths the necessity of taking responsibility for their own actions and to help keep kids from being arrested again. This unique court serves the community in diverse ways. It educates youth to a better understanding of the laws and allows them to examine the workings of the Justice System. Problem youths with minor offenses are often overlooked but can be appropriately handled in this court, benefiting the community, the police, and themselves. Getting involved is a great way to help the community and build valuable experience.
Prospective members receive an initial six weeks of training classes presented by local attorneys.
Juveniles between 8 and 17 years of age charged with first offenses may be eligible for Youth Court. Common cases heard in Youth Court involve minor offenses like harassment, shoplifting, trespassing, destruction of property, disorderly conduct, and possession of alcohol or drug paraphernalia. After a juvenile has been arrested, a Grandview Police Officer, specializing in juvenile affairs, reviews the case for consideration by Youth Court. If the officer decides Youth Court is appropriate, the youth's parents are sent a letter giving them a choice of attending Youth Court at the City Services Building on Main Street or the Jackson County Family Court in downtown Kansas City. Once Youth Court is chosen, a youth's case is assigned a Youth Defense Attorney and a Youth Prosecutor.