Teen Court

Developed by the Los Angeles County Court and Sheriff’s Department staff, the Teen Court Diversion Program addresses minor and severe misdemeanor crimes committed by juvenile offenders. (On occasion, non-violent felonies may be referred by the Sheriff’s Department.) The program is currently overseen by the City of Santa Clarita and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

What happens in Teen Court?

Juveniles who commit minor offenses are questioned and sentenced by a jury of their peers from local high schools during court sessions. Then they are sentenced to complete community service, pay fines, attend classes and other requirements.

Who is eligible for the Teen Court program?

Juveniles who commit minor offenses are screened for suitability and referred by the Sheriff’s Department. For eligibility requirements click here: Eligibility Requirements

The offense cannot be of an extremely violent nature. The safety of anyone associated with the Teen Court program is the top priority.

What are the benefits of the program?

The Teen Court Diversion Program offers convicted juvenile offenders the incentive of having no incarceration or formal probation, and there is no conviction on their record if the sentence is completed within a six-month period. Youth in the program also participate in activities and receive support to help them on to the road toward success.

Who sits on the Jury?

The jury is made up of a group of local teens that include past participants as well as local high school students. Past participants are asked by the judge to attend four court hearings as jurors to contribute insight and experience when sentencing new cases. 

Local students who participate are referred by faculty from different William S. Hart school District high school campuses. Participants who are referred to the program as jurors often have an interest in Ethics, Government, History, and English. Teens who are interested in participating as volunteer jurors can send an email of interest to Ana Salinas at ASalinas@santa-clarita.gov. All jurors are required to submit a waiver of confidentiality prior to the start of the Court session.