Teen Court is a Court Diversion Program specifically designed for misdemeanor youth offenders who have no prior court record. Participation by all parties is voluntary, which assists offenders in assuming responsibility for their behavior through involvement in the judicial process and work in the community.

The purpose of Teen Court is to direct cases away from the juvenile court and provide a forum for the defendants (who admit guilt) to explain their involvement in the offense. This program seeks to deter teens from future unlawful practices through direct experience in the judiciary system and an understanding of these roles in society. Additionally, the community reciprocally benefits from the youths’ involvement in this program.

The following goals will be achieved through the use of Teen Court:

• Hold juvenile offenders responsible for their behavior and make them recognize that the consequences are a direct result of their own actions.
Promote positive attitude of teenagers toward authority by treating all individuals with respect.
• Provide teenage defendants with a positive experience in the judicial system, thereby reducing recidivism and helping deter the possibility of them continuing to commit other crimes.
• Establish positive relationships between the community and its youth, which creates greater understanding and communication.

Teen Court is held during the school year at the Humboldt County Court House. Students fulfill the roles of attorneys, jurors, bailiff, and court clerk. The Honorable Judge Michael R. Montero, Sixth Judicial District Court judge, and the Honorable Gene Wambolt, Union Township justice of the peace preside over Teen Court. Teen Court is coordinated by Officer Jeff Dawson and Rene Hill.

Teen Court Advisors:

• Officer Jeff Dawson
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• Rene Hill
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