___Guilford County Teen Court provides trials for first-time offenders ages 9 to 15, pleading guilty to misdemeanors, who are referred by the criminal justice system, law enforcement, School Resource Officers (SRO's); and ages 16 and 17 referred by school resource officers for offenses committed at schools. Evening court sessions are conducted at the Guilford County Courthouses located in Greensboro and High Point. Adult and youth volunteers are essential to the successful administration of Teen Court. Regular training sessions are conducted for persons interested in volunteering for services.

WHAT HAPPENS AT TEEN COURT?

___A jury of peers listens to the defendant's answers to questions from defense and prosecuting attorneys. At the end of the trial, the jury develops sentencing contracts that include community service, victim restitution, education, curfews, self-enhancement programs, etc. Offenders are required to fulfill their contracts within 90 days. Those who do not are sent to juvenile court for stricter sanctions and adult probationary supervision.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

First time youth offenders who are pleading guilty to misdemeanors such as:

Communicating Threats Larceny Shoplifting False 911 Calls Less Serious Driving Offenses Simple Assault/Affray First Offense Drug/Alcohol Possession Crimes committed on school property

WHO BENEFITS?

• The offender remains in the community to finish school, work, get solutions to
  problems, and repay the victim and the community for the crime.
  
• The North Carolina Juvenile Corrections System has more space available for violent
  and repeat juvenile offenders
  
• The taxpayer saves tax dollars if fewer juvenile offenders are incarcerated.
  

IS THERE A FEE FOR PARTICIPATION IN TEEN COURT?

___No. The Guilford County Teen Court Program does not charge service fees..

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