Teen Court to Hold Training for Youth and Adult Volunteers; Court Offers 2nd Chance to Youth Offenders

From Harford County government:

The Harford County Teen Court will be offering training for youth and adult volunteers on Thursday, February 9, 2012, at 4:30pm at the Harford County District Court, 2 South Bond Street in Bel Air.

The Teen Court was piloted in the spring of 2011 and is approaching its first year of operation as a diversion program that provides first time, non-violent youth offenders with a second chance. Offenders agree to participate in the Teen Court program, and if successful, avoid becoming involved in the juvenile justice system.

The Teen Court was developed by the Harford County Department of Community Services Office of Drug Control Policy in partnership with the Department of Juvenile Services, State’s Attorney Office, Sheriff’s Office, and Harford County Public Schools.

Harford County District Court Judge Susan Hazlett presides over the court and the jury is comprised of teens from around the county. The Harford County Teen Court program follows a restorative justice model in which it is determined what is best for the respondent, the victim, and the community at large. The court is held the third Thursday of the month in the evening.

For the teen jurors, this is a volunteer experience and a chance to see firsthand how the criminal justice system works. With the help of adult volunteers, the jury develops a ruling for the offending youth, such as writing an apology letter, performing community service, or serving on the teen jury in the future.

To register for the Teen Court Training session on February 9, or to learn more about serving as a volunteer juror or court clerk, please contact the Office of Drug Control Policy at 410-638-3333 or teencourt@harfordcountymd.gov.