Since 2017, the Lone Tree Teen Court has been an innovative educational diversion program designed to address youth-related misdemeanors and offenses within the Lone Tree community. Offering an alternative to traditional juvenile court proceedings, teen court provides teen offenders with an opportunity to take responsibility for their actions in a supportive, peer-driven environment. By involving teen volunteers in the decision-making process, the program promotes skills related to leadership, empathy and compassion, critical thinking, communication and conflict resolution. For the teen offenders, teen court is a voluntary alternative to the traditional municipal court process that uses three restorative justice principles that promote accountability, competency development, community engagement and safety.
How Do Teen Offenders Get Chosen for Teen Court?
The teen defendant must first comply with their first court appearance at Lone Tree Municipal Court where they are advised of their rights, the nature of the charge(s), and if they are eligible for teen court. If the defendant chooses teen court, they will schedule an intake interview with the teen court coordinator where they will be interviewed about the offense, learn about the teen court program, and be advised if they are eligible and willing to participate. Then a peer panel hearing will be scheduled if they are eligible. If they are not eligible, their case is forwarded to the municipal court.
What are the Ages of Offenders and Types of Offenses Heard in Teen Court?
Teen Court focuses on misdemeanor offenses and youth-related infractions with most cases being shoplifting and theft. Generally, the teen court handles offenses that are non-violent and first-time offenses involving teens between the ages of 12 and 17.
How Does the Peer Panel Work?
Teen Court peer panels in Lone Tree are comprised of youth volunteers. Panelists interview respondents and their families regarding the offense, the impacts of the crime, and how the respondent can remediate their actions. The panelists use what is shared in the interview process to recommend an appropriate and meaningful set of sentencing that paves the way for respondents to repair the harm they have caused by their actions. Sentencing options may include community service, apology letters, empowerment workshops and other educational classes, shoplifting interview essays, and special projects. Respondents are required to complete their sentencing requirements within three months after their participation in the peer panel.
Who Can Volunteer for Teen Court?
Lone Tree Teen Court accepts youth volunteer applications on an on-going basis. Youth applicants must be age 12 through 18 years old. Interested in learning more about becoming a teen volunteer for teen court, visit cityoflonetree.com and complete your volunteer application.
For more information about the Lone Tree Teen Court, email the teen court coordinator at teencourt@cityoflonetree.com or call 720-509-1265.