Teen Court Programs

Teen Court programs aim to prevent and reduce juvenile delinquency by offering an alternative to the traditional justice system. These judicial diversion programs emphasize accountability and personal growth by using “positive peer pressure” and appropriate sanctions to help young offenders understand the consequences of their actions while encouraging constructive behavior. Cases are referred to Teen Court through the State Attorney’s Office. Teen Court also provides case management services via delinquency citations from the Family Resource Center of the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office and surrounding local law enforcement agencies.

About Teen Court

Teen Court provides a structured, peer-driven process for addressing juvenile offenses. The program allows young offenders to take responsibility for their actions while engaging with their peers in a constructive environment. This approach not only holds offenders accountable but also fosters understanding and personal development. Student volunteers have an opportunity to gain knowledge of the law and the juvenile justice system, enhance public speaking skills, and earn community service hours while making a positive contribution to their peer group.

What to Expect

Once a case is referred to Teen Court by the State Attorney’s Office, the youth and their parent(s) or guardian will receive a letter with the date and time for an initial meeting with a Teen Court Case Manager. During this meeting, the program will be explained in detail, and a trial date will be set.

The Trial Process:
Volunteer students, middle (mature age 13) to high school, assume courtroom roles, such as prosecutor, defense attorney, bailiff, and clerk. The jury is comprised of Teen Court volunteers and youth who have successfully completed the program. To participate, offenders must admit guilt before entering Teen Court.

At the trial, the jury determines an appropriate sentence. Examples of sentencing options include:

• Community service
• Restitution
• Letters of apology
• Essays
• Substance abuse education or counseling
• Peer group counseling
• Serving as a Teen Court juror

Volunteering for Teen Court

Teen Court thrives on the involvement of dedicated teen volunteers who play key roles in the courtroom. By serving as jurors, prosecutors, defense attorneys, or clerks, volunteers help ensure that justice is served in a way that resonates with their peers.

Why Volunteer?

• Contribute to a justice system designed for teens, by teens.
• Earn community service hours for school or other programs.
• Develop valuable skills such as public speaking, critical thinking, and teamwork.

Who Can Volunteer?

• Middle (mature age 13) to High school students with an interest in law, public service, or helping others.
• No prior experience is necessary—training and guidance are provided.

Volunteering with Teen Court is more than just a learning experience—it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on your community.

Volunteer Application – Please email your completed volunteer application to TeenCourt@circuit7.org

Locations & Contact

The Teen Court flyer provides additional information about the programs. To become a Teen Court volunteer or to find out more, you may also contact one of our offices:

Flagler County

Kim C. Hammond Justice Center 1769 E. Moody Blvd., #1 Bunnell, FL 32110

Phone (386) 313-4559

East Volusia County

James Foxman Justice Center 251 N. Ridgewood Ave., Daytona Beach, FL 32114

Phone (386) 239-7812

West Volusia County

Volusia County Courthouse 101 N. Alabama Ave., Rm. B253

DeLand, FL 32724

Phone (386) 822-5703

Additional Links

Teen Court Flyer

Teen Court Facebook

Teen Court Instagram