Henderson County Teen Court is a legally binding alternative system of justice that offers young offenders an opportunity to make restitution for their offenses through community service, educational classes, and jury service, thus avoiding fines and sentences handed down by the adult criminal justice system and keeping the offense off their record.
Henderson County Teen Court hopes to interrupt developing patterns of criminal behavior by promoting feelings of self esteem, motivation for self improvement, and development of healthy attitudes toward authority. An individual's responsibility and accountability for his or her action are stressed.
Two Sentencing Programs
Student Attorney Representation
Volunteer high school students serve as prosecuting and defense attorneys. Defendants are assigned a peer defense attorney who serves as the defendant's advocate before Teen Court.
The roles of court clerk and bailiff are also filled by student volunteers. Real cases of actual juvenile offenders are presented by the peer attorney in the courtroom, and student jurors impose binding sentences that are recognized by Juvenile Court. Student attorneys develop opening statements, prepare questions for direct and cross-examination and for any witnesses that testify, as well as prepare closing statements. Student attorneys also describe a recommended sentence to jurors.
Master Jury Panel
Less formal than Student Attorney Representation, this session does not include student attorneys. The Master Jury is a panel of peers that have a direct conversation with the offender about the offense and circumstances involved. After the Mastser Jury questions the offender and any witnesses, deliberations take place and a verdict is rendered.
To hold juvenile offenders responsible for their behavior and help them recognize that the consequences are a direct result of their own actions.
To provide teenage offenders with a positive experience in the judicial system, thereby reducing recidivism and helping deter the possibility of committing other crimes.
To educate youth volunteers and offenders on the legal and judicial process.
To establish positive relationships between the community and its youth, promoting increased understanding and communication.
To assist Henderson County and local community agencies in saving labor expense by providing youth as community service workers.
Henderson County Teen Court, Inc.
P.O. Box 227
Athens, TX 75751-0227
903.489.1143
courtcoordinator@teencourtathenstx.org
Henderson County Teen Court, Inc. is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501(C)3 supported by private citizens and charitable organizations.
Board of Directors
Angela Sanderson, President
Lauren Fulton, Vice-President
Nelda Farmer, Secretary
Patsy R. Miller, Treasurer
Don Carter, Mark Ferrell, Anne Remley, Len Remley, Sherill Watson, Terry Watson, and Betty Wilson
Lana Perkins - Court Coordinator