How to Run a Youth Court

Welcome to our page devoted to helping you learn more about youth courts.  The videos and training materials included here are intended for teachers, law professionals, students, community members and anyone interested in learning essential skills to successfully run a youth court. 

What does a youth court look like?  How does it work?

Videos: These mock trial videos, featuring the Chester High School Youth Court in Chester, Pennsylvania, are designed to answer the questions: "What does a youth court look like? How does it work?"  The trial is divided into 5 short parts for ease of reviewing and training.  Each segment is only about 2-3 minutes long.

Part 1. Administering of Oaths

Part 2. Reading of Charges and Opening Statements

Part 3. Questioning and Closing Statements

Part 4. Jury Deliberations

Part 5. Disposition (Sentencing)

The Whole Trial Start-to-Finish (13 minutes) 

How do I start a youth court?

Training Materials: The following materials will help you put into action what you just viewed in the videos. 

1. Chester High School Youth Court Lesson Plan

2. Chester High School Youth Court Hearing Handbook 2009-2010

3. Chester High School Youth Court Forms

4. American Bar Association Youth Court Desktop Guide

How can I learn more?

Stoneleigh Fellow Gregg Volz is working to develop a movement for the use of youth courts in Pennsylvania, beginning in the City of Chester. 

The National Association of Youth Courts is also a good source of information and provides links to many other organizations.