FY23 

Teen Court has seen an increase in the number of referrals as the relationship with local law enforcement continues to grow.  The success of the Teen Court Program has been attributed to the diversion of a juvenile record as well as going before peers to plea their case and accept sanctions which often include referral to resources.  With the addition of excessive absenteeism referrals many youth have started attending school on a regular basis.

FY23

Partners in FY23 have included the Circuit Court for Caroline County, local law enforcement, Caroline County Public Schools and the Dept. of Juvenile Services.  Our partners supporting the program with resources include, Caroline County Health Department, Caroline County Public Schools, Mid Shore Mediation, Caroline County Department of Social Services and local businesses.

We believe going before a court of peers who understand and can relate to the reason many youth commit minor offenses is what truly works.  The jury, made up of youth volunteers, give out fair sanctions not to punish youth but to show them there are consequences for bad behaviors or poor judgement.  All youth are  given at least 1 time to serve as a juror.  Many youth after going through the Teen Court process ask to serve as a volunteer for the Program.