Overview

Teen Court relies on their volunteers for success. Our volunteers serve in various capacities, whether it be a juror, attorney, clerk, or bailiff. Volunteering is a rewarding experience, and unlike many other types of community service, what makes us unique is that our participants gain valuable information about the legal system, interact with elected and appointed government officials, develop critical thinking skills, develop public speaking skills, meet a diverse group of people, and are empowered with the responsibility of sentencing teens who have committed crimes.

Jurors

Peer jurors play a vital role in the Teen Court process. The peer jury does not determine innocence or guilt, but the appropriate sentence that the defendant must complete. Each sentence consists of a certain amount of jury duties, rap sessions, community service hours, and other educational classes. As a juror, the student is required to demonstrate respect for the process and the court by following proper protocol. Dress, behavior and language must be presented in a professional manner.

Please review the Dress Code and Demeanor for Teen Court before your arrival.

To uphold the integrity and professionalism of the program individuals who do not comply with the dress will not be permitted to participate.

Youth interested in volunteering as jurors need to complete a volunteer application and online jury training. Once your application and jury training results have been submitted electronically, you will receive a personal email acknowledgment within a week's time. You are eligible to attend Teen Court at any time after you have completed the application and jury training.

Officers

After serving on the jury for a minimum of three evenings a juror can apply to become a Teen Court Officer (defense attorney, prosecution attorney, bailiff, and juror observer). In order to become an officer you must apply, complete an officer training seminar and pass the objection test. Please fax your completed application to: Teen Court 850-487-7947.

Pro-Bono Law Students

Students from the Florida State Law School can complete their pro-bono service with the Leon County Teen Court. These students will assist the teen attorneys with the preparation of their cases and will also serve as juror observers [instructions for FSU law students...]. The Law students must complete seven evenings of Teen Court to receive their hours.

Adult Attorneys/Teen Court Judges

Bar certified attorneys and judges can serve as our Teen Court Judges. Teen Court Judges typically serve one Tuesday night out of the calendar year. You can contact our office to be placed on one of the two rotations.