Overview
Participation in Teen Court is based on an admission of guilt. Before enrolling, teens must appear before a Municipal Court Judge with a parent or guardian (if under 17), and enter a plea of guilty or no contest. 

The choice of participating in Teen Court is an alternative sentencing program to keep the offense off your record rather than just paying the fine and have it on your record. After the Judge has granted you permission to take Teen Court, you and your parent will have a meeting with the Teen Court coordinator to discuss the Teen Court procedures. The Teen Court coordinator is present the evening of your court date for your convenience.

Eligibility
Teenagers between the ages of 10 and 18 years old and others who are full time students and have received a Class C citation are eligible to participate in Teen Court. Participation is voluntary and solely at the Municipal Court judge’s discretion. Defendants may choose at any time to pay the fine and not complete the Teen Court, however, the violation will then go on your record.

Benefits of Teen Court
Benefits of participating in Teen Court include:

• Results in dismissal of the case, if all requirements are timely and successfully met, which keeps the offenses(s) off the teen’s record
• Teens become acquainted with judicial system
• Experiences satisfaction of contributing to the community
• Gains valuable work experience