Johnson County Youth Court Frequently Asked Questions

Johnson County Court Services

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Frequently Asked Questions

Youth Court FAQs

What types of cases are heard in Youth Court?
Youth Court cases are generally referred by the District Attorney's Office, the school, or Municipal Court. Typically, cases heard in Youth Court include:

Criminal Damage to Property
Criminal Trespass
Theft
Disorderly Conduct
Assault
Battery
Curfew Violations
Minor in Possession (consumption)
Harassment by Telephone

What happens in Youth Court?
A youth, who has admitted involvement in to an offense appears before a jury of peers for a sentencing hearing. Youth volunteers serve in the roles of prosecuting and defense attorneys, judge, bailiff and jury members. The jury is presented with evidence relevant to the facts of the case. Additionally, the offender and his/her parent or guardian, along with any identified victim in the matter, are given an opportunity to address the Court. The jury deliberates and passes a sentence appropriate to the offense committed. Sanctions imposed typically include:

community service work,
a victim apology letter,
restitution (monetary or in-kind when warranted),
educational workshop

In addition, all youth who appear before Youth Court later serve as a Youth Court juror.

What are the benefits of Youth Court?
Youth Court offers a means for holding juvenile offenders accountable for problem behaviors. If the program is successfully completed, the youth avoids a formal juvenile record. Moreover, Youth Court provides an avenue for community youth to assume leadership roles and actively take part in addressing the problem of juvenile crime in their community.