Peer Jury
You Can Take a Stand Against Juvenile Crime - Get Involved in Peer Jury
Peer Jury is a program which allows a first-time teenage offender an opportunity to have his/her case heard by a jury of peers instead of going to the traditional court. In Peer Jury, teenage offenders are given the opportunity to accept responsibility for their criminal behavior. By agreeing to have peers determine what the “sentence” or penalty should be, the offense will not go on the offender’s record as a conviction.
- Teen Court meets once a month
- A group of volunteer teens carry on the role of jurors
- The Peer Jury questions the defendant about the incident
- After deliberating, the peer jury issues a “sentence” for the defendant.
Program Requirements
First-time offenders who appear as defendants before their peers in Peer Jury are referred by the arresting juvenile officer. Requirements for defendants to participate in the program are:
- Teen defendants must agree to participate and must admit guilt.
- Teen defendants must be 13 through 17 years of age.
- Parents of the defendant must agree to the defendant’s participation. View the Parent/Guardian Consent Letter.
Get Involved
Teens between the ages of 13 through 17 can volunteer as jurors. Jurors are provided an opportunity to get involved in juvenile justice and realize their duties as members of the community. Complete the application and talk to your School Resource Officer if you have any other questions.
Apply