Sentencing Criteria

What is “Sentencing Criteria”? And why does it matter?

During a court session, the judge issues a series of conditions (or expectations) that the teen must abide by while they are “under the supervision” of the program (usually 60-180 days depending on the case.) These are mandatory and must be adhered to by the teen participant in order for them to successfully complete the program and have their citation deferred. Violations of these criteria could result in additional criteria, an extended court supervision period and/or case dismissal (removal from the program).

Each teen will be required to abide by the following conditions, in addition to their individual sentencing criteria as noted in their contract and ordered by the judge:

1. Obey all laws and orders set by Community Court and Teen Court.
2. Report to the Community Court and Teen Court Coordinator, as directed.
3. Notify the Community Court and Teen Court Coordinator before changing address or school.
4. Do not own or possess any dangerous weapons, nor remain in the presence of an unlawfully armed person.
5. Do not use or possess any alcohol or drugs and stay away from places where users or sellers congregate.
6. Attend school and maintain satisfactory grades, attendance, and citizenship.
7. Pay all court fines and class fees. Click Here for Fine Information

ADDITIONAL TEEN COURT (Misdemeanor/criminal cases) SENTENCING CRITERIA MAY INCLUDE: 

• Complete community service hours as ordered by the judge. (8-40 hours to be completed within the court supervision period.)
• Write an essay on the consequences of your citation OR (in lieu of essay) submit a creative video project about the impact of your violation on you and your family.  
• Write a letter of apology to victim and/or parents/guardian.
• Pay additional court fines and class fees as ordered.
• Pay restitution as ordered to compensate victim for losses/damage. See Restitution Guidelines. Restitution is paid through the court process, not directly to the victim.
• Attend a 6-week Early Intervention Program with the Child and Family Center or other counseling, as ordered. Child & Family Center Website

ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY COURT (Traffic Citations) SENTENCING CRITERIA:

• Complete an online Traffic School class.
• Visit the Santa Clarita Youth Grove Memorial (Approx. 1.5 Hours) and write an essay on the topic given by the judge. For more information on the Youth Grove, click here: YGM Homepage
• Pay court fines and class fees.

Please note: Criteria is subject to the discretion of the judge, bailiff, and court staff. Criteria may change or be different than what is listed above.