MARION COUNTY TEEN COURT

Teen Court is an alternative justice system for Juvenile first-time offenders that operates on restorative justice principles. The jury, which is comprised of teens, does not decide the guilt or innocence of the offender but assesses constructive sentencing for the offender who has pleaded guilty. This program allows them to emerge with a clean record, presuming all conditions of their sentence have been completed within the guidelines provided. The primary goal for Teen Court is to reduce recidivism by providing a constructive, educational experience that holds young people accountable for their actions and learn from their mistakes in a supportive environment that emphasizes positive reinforcement.