ABOUT US

Bethlehem Youth Court is a non-profit organization with a mission to help justice involved youth through peer-led sentencing hearings. Youth Court is a voluntary diversion program for young people who have committed a first-time, low level offense or crime. These cases are diverted out of the traditional justice system and upon successful completion a clean record is restored. Trained high school aged volunteers perform all courtroom roles including: Judge, Defense Advocate, Community Advocate (Prosecutor), Jury Foreperson, Clerk, and Victim Advocate. Sentencing options, which is decided by a peer panel, include community service, restitution, apology letters, educational classes, and other positive sanctions.