by Kathy Foster – With information provided by the Teen Court Program
Washington County Teen Court representatives were guests of the Chipley Kiwanis Club on Tuesday and reported on the impact that being involved as volunteers with program has given their lives.
Teen Court is descrubed as a juvenile diversion program based on the philosophy that youthful offenders are less likely to re-offend when punishment is decided by a jury of their peers.
Juveniles offenders, who have little or no prior criminal history, may have their cases tried by local high school students in an actual courtroom. Most of these misdemeanor or minor felony cases are sent directly to teen court by law enforcement. This allows youth to bypass the traditional juvenile court process, thereby eliminating or minimizing a damaging criminal record.
The offender must admit guilt, be accountable for their negative actions, and agree to complete any sentence handed down by their peers.
Throughout this process, the youths will get a first-hand look at their justice system and an experience in restorative justice. Further, Teen Court helps to decrease the workload and expense associated with formal juvenile court proceedings.
The student volunteers are required to be trained to perform the roles of defense attorney, prosecutor, clerk, and bailiff. The role of judge is performed by an actual judge or attorney magistrate. Volunteers develop strong leadership skills, receive community service hours, and gain a working knowledge of their local government.
Kiwanis clubs and members undertake nearly 150,000 service projects each year, contributing more than $100 million dollars and 6 million volunteer service hours. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.