Arlington, TX

The Arlington Municipal Court has reinstated its Teen Court program after a four-year absence. Teen Court provides an alternative for minor juvenile offense like traffic violations or other minor offense, allowing participants to appear in a court before a jury of their peers. Sentences include things like community service, and offenses are dismissed once all terms are met.

“The mission of the Arlington Teen Court is to benefit young people and the community,” said Teen Court Coordinator Kristen Enriquez. “Teens get a chance to accept responsibility for their behavior without gaining a criminal or traffic record. Everyone involved becomes more knowledgeable of the justice system.”

Teen Court is currently recruiting teen and adult volunteers to assist with the court. Teen volunteers will serve as prosecutors, defense attorneys, bailiffs, jurors and court clerks. Adult volunteers assist the teen court coordinator by signing up teen defendants for the program, verifying defendants’ completion of the program, and occasionally overseeing court hearings.

This is a great opportunity for teens to learn about the judicial system, even if they don’t plan on a career as a lawyer.

If you are interested in volunteering or need additional information, you can visit the Teen Court Website or contact Kristen Enriquez at 817-459-6495 or e-mail Kristen.enriquez@arlingtontx.gov.

Arlington, Arlington TX, Municipal Court, Teen Court, Volunteers Needed