Teen Court is a real justice program run by teens for teens. Juveniles aged 12 through 17 who have committed a misdemeanor crime appear before a jury of their peers. The crime is generally a first offense, and the respondent must admit involvement since this is a disposition (sentencing) hearing only.

Teen Court is offered as a positive experience to divert a first time teen offender away from a pattern of criminal behavior. Cases heard in Teen Court involve crimes such as shoplifting, disorderly conduct, destruction of property and possession of alcohol to name a few.

In Teen Court, volunteer teens perform the roles of the prosecuting and defense attorneys, bailiff, clerk and jury. The Judge is the only adult directly involved in the court proceedings.

After careful consideration of the facts, the jury deliberates and decides upon a constructive disposition, including a minimum number of community service hours and serving on at least one and up to four teen court juries .The respondent then has 60 days to complete the disposition and have the original charge dismissed. If the disposition is not completed, the case returns to the referring agency, for formal processing. Other sanctions include attending educational programs, and writing essays and apology letters.

The Caroline County Teen Court is a cooperative effort of the Caroline County Sheriff's Office, Caroline Human Services Council, and the Maryland Department of Juvenile Justice.

Since it's inception, hundreds of cases have come before the Teen Court. The Teen Court has assigned thousands of community service hours to be completed by respondents. Currently the Teen Court is being held at the Caroline County Circuit Court.

The recruitment of Teen Court volunteers is always a priority. Speaking engagements and general questions involving Teen Court are handled through Cpl. James Gossage of the Caroline County Sheriff's Office. Cpl. Gossage can be contacted at 410-479-2515 for further questions. Please go to http://www.youthcourt.net/ for additional information on our youth programs available.