Teen court is a diversion program within the justice system where first-time or low-level youth offenders are judged by a jury of their peers—other teenagers. Instead of facing formal prosecution, the offender agrees to participate in the program, where teen volunteers take on roles such as jurors, attorneys, bailiffs and sometimes even judges, under the guidance of adult legal professionals.
The goal of teen court is to provide restorative justice by holding the offender accountable while also offering them an opportunity for rehabilitation and a clean record upon successful completion of assigned sanctions, such as community service, apology letters or counseling.
The first teen court program in South Dakota was established in Lawrence County in 1995. Since the establishment of this first teen court program, teen court programs have increased in number in South Dakota and across the nation. Check below and your local community resources regarding the availability of a teen court in your community.