What is Youth Court?
Youth volunteers serve as the lawyers, judge, and jury in sentencing hearings for youth who have been charged with misdemeanor offenses. The court practices restorative justice to promote behavioral change and reduce recidivism.
Youth Court Roles
- Judge: Leads the hearing in an orderly manner by explaining peer court and instructing participants when to speak
- Youth Advocate: Advocates for the respondent to ensure he/she/they feels heard while still recognizing the need for justice
- Bailiff: Maintains order in the hearing by supporting the judge
- Community Advocate: Advocates for the community to ensure the disposition makes up for the harm caused by the respondent
- Jury: Listens to the facts of the case and comes up with a disposition
- Adult Volunteers: Assist community and youth advocate in preparing opening and closing statements; help jury in recommending a disposition
(Photo: Peer Court in Cobb County, Fox 5 Atlanta)
(Photo: Peer Court in Cobb County, Fox 5 Atlanta)
Interested in Volunteering with Youth Court?
We are currently accepting youth volunteers from these 4 SCCPSS high schools: Savannah High, Savannah Early College, Jenkins High, and, Johnson High. Complete Youth Volunteer Application Here.
Complete Adult Volunteer Application Here.