BENEFITS OF TEEN COURT

1. The offender benefits by taking responsibility for his/her actions and participating in a trial before peers.
2. Students completing Teen Court can clear their record of delinquent or criminal convictions.
3. Requires offenders to experience "both sides of the fence," through jury participation as a part of their sanctions.
4. Adult volunteers are given the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young people.
5. Participation in Teen Court can change delinquent behavior into good citizenship.
6. Teen Court can increase self esteem
7. Youth are given an opportunity for a real second chance, a chance to prove that mistakes can be turned into positive choices.
8. Teen Court serves to discourage further crime by the offender
9. The parents of the offender are no longer held totally accountable.
10. Citizens are able to see teens being held accountable for their actions.
11. Teens have the chance to examine possible career opportunities.
12. Volunteers gain a sense of responsibility as they encourage peers to stop behaviors that reflect on all teens.
13. Teens learn valuable skills, such as public speaking, logical thinking and the operation of the judicial system.
14. Teens become great role models for their peers.
15. Teen Court provides a peer group working together for awareness and compliance with the law of the land.
16. Teen Court can educate young adults about the American system of justice.
17. Teen Volunteers benefit by "hands on" experience in preparing cases, meeting with clients and representing them in court.
18. Teens serve the community by working in non-profit or government related community service agencies.
19. Educating youth for life's responsibilities as an individual, family member and productive citizen.
20. The community receives the benefits from projects and community service work.
21. Teen Court can develop respect for authority, other people and property.

City of Duncanville
Teen Court
203 E. Wheatland Road
P.O. Box 380280
Duncanville, TX 75116
972-780-5063

© Duncanville, Texas 2003

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