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History

Contact
 

Bonnie Schultz-Lorentzen

Teen Court Manager

bonnies@nwys.org

(360) 603-0033

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TTY/TDD services number is
1-800-833-6388

Since 1997, Teen Court has been partnering with Whatcom County Superior Court to offer a peer-based diversion service for 12-17 year olds. Respondents come through Teen Court on a range of charges from misdemeanors to felonies and are referred to Teen Court by Whatcom County Juvenile Services.  

 

High school students from across Whatcom County volunteer to participate as; jurors, judges, clerks, bailiffs, and attorneys (referred to as advocates). Each participating high school has a Teacher Advisor who works closely with their team to recruit, train and prepare their students for the various Teen Court roles. A Student Advisory Board, made up of 2-3 leaders from each school, meets monthly to discuss important topics and make any changes.

 

Teen Court is based on the philosophy of Restorative Justice which focuses on accountability, healing, and community – not punishment.  

 

Does your school want to participate in Teen Court? Interested in being an Attorney Mentor?! Do you want to start your own Teen Court in your county? Please reach out to us! 

Students & Teachers

Student or Teacher

Youth Respondent

Respondent

1. PROGRAM CHOICES

  • Teen Court: A voluntary option for you.

  • Juvenile Court: The alternative choice.

2. INTAKE APPOINTMENT

  • At Northwest Youth Services, you'll have an intake appointment.

  • Review the police report, discuss your case, and complete paperwork, including a questionnaire.

3. STUDENT ADVOCATES

  • Volunteers from participating schools will represent you.

  • They'll be your advocates during the hearing.

4. PREPARING YOUR CASE

  • Once you opt for Teen Court, your case goes to a participating school.

  • They start working on presentations for the jury.

  • Your defense advocates will meet with you and your parents face-to-face before the hearing.

5.HEARING DATE

  • On the hearing day, you'll meet with your advocate at the courthouse.

  • You'll have a chance to address the jury or let your advocates present your case.

  • The hearing typically lasts about 45 minutes.

  • Confidentiality Contracts are signed by ALL student volunteers

6.POST-HEARING

  • After your hearing, meet with a Northwest Youth Services representative.

  • They'll provide you with the contract terms to complete.

7. BENEFITS

Completing your Teen Court contract means:

  • No conviction or criminal record.

  • Your diversion files remain private.

8.VOLUNTEER

  • Yes, you can volunteer for the Teen Court Program after completing your contract.

  • Join through your school's Teen Court team.

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Non-Completion Consequences

  • Failure to complete your contract will result in your case returning to the Prosecuting Attorney for further court action.

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We hope this information helps you navigate the Teen Court process with ease. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us.

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