About Teen Court

Teen Court is an educational program training teenagers in the protocols of court, law, and debate. The Williamson County / YMCA Teen Court is a partnership between Judge Edna Staudt, Justice of the Peace, Pct. 2, and the YMCA of Greater Williamson County, Twin Lakes Branch. The WCYMCA Teen Court utilizes many adult volunteers and trainers including, lawyers, judges, and law enforcement officers from the Williamson County Sheriff's Office and the Texas Department of Public Safety. Students learn the roles of all court officers, including judge, prosecutor, defense attorney, juror, clerk and bailiff. All students between the ages of 13 to 19 are eligible to participate in the program, regardless of where they attend school or live. The program meets twice monthly. The offender is assigned a defense attorney and questioned by both the prosecutor and defense attorney, who then argue the sentence before the jury. A teenage judge officiates the proceeding.

Participation in this Teen Court program gives teens an opportunity to realize their roles in the community, instills a sense of price and responsibility, through the use of positive peer pressure, and helps create a better community for all.

Teen Court programs have consistently proven effective in reducing the rate of teen repeat offenses. Offenders between the age of 10 to 18 who have been found guilty of a Class C misdemeanor are eligible for the program as a condition of their sentence. Courts throughout the county and state may refer the offender to the WCYMCA Teen Court for sentencing. The program is considered a condition of a deferred disposition. The program is a voluntary decision by the offender and is ordered at the discretion of the particular court, either Justice Court or Municipal Court. Offenders must comply with the sentence set by the jury of their peers to have their case dismissed by the referring court.

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Teen Court Training for 2011 - 2012 Court Term

Want to learn about the Judicial system and how it works? Here's an opportunity for you - Come to our Training Session for this next years court term.

WHEN: August 6, 2011 - 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.

WHERE: Camp Twin Lakes YMCA, Cedar Park

WHAT: Pizza for lunch will be provided. Be prepared to learn.

Sign up now - Click Here for more details.