Denton Teen Court Model

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Recommended: Social control theories of juvenile delinquency

Juveniles are handled differently than adult criminals that are being charged with a crime. One theory that explains crime not occurring at a particular activity whether it is juveniles or adults is social bond theory, which relates to individuals and how people have attachments with their selves and others (Jay, 2013). Sutherland addresses four bonds of elements. They include attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief. Juveniles have stress in their life and these elements could distract them from committing crimes. Attachment is an element that describes the emotion of the individuals when they do not want to disappoint the people they care about. The people they may care about are family and friends who are involved in their decision- …show more content…

There are many branches of the Criminal Justice System that helped make this program successful. “This program was initiated through a Title V grant with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice” (Irons & Jones, 2001). This Teen Court model is organized based on an adult judge model. Moreover, with this model being used it means that there are adults available to make decisions and also to assist with legal issues. The requirements to be admitted to the Denton Teen Court Program are must be 12 – 17 years old, must be enrolled in high school, no higher than class C misdemeanors, and be willing to go through for the program. The teens that are participating in the program must plead guilty to the charges against them. Teen Court is an alternative to paying a fine or receiving another punishment. However, Teen Court is a voluntary program so teens may choose not to participate and will pay their fine. Benefits to the program include dismissal of charges against the teens (upon successful completion of the program), learning from their mistakes, become familiar with the system, and obtain the satisfaction of helping the …show more content…

Many Teen Court programs have similar characteristics. The programs accept first-time offenders that have just committed misdemeanors. All juveniles are required to complete community service and jury duty. There are other consequences as well. For instance, an apology letter, counseling, and possibly educational projects may be required. The United States Senate now annually recognizes September as National Youth Court Month. Teen Court began as a small fledgling program and now is a huge movement for Juvenile Justice. The process of Teen Court is similar to adult courts. Teen Court begins with opening and closing statements by the defense and prosecuting attorneys, and questions asked to the offender. Teen Court program is very beneficial because juveniles are given the opportunity to view their actions and see the effects on others. It is also beneficial because the juvenile is receiving judgment from his

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