Code of Student Conduct

Cases are referred by the district attorney's office based on established criteria. Examples of cases heard include battery / assault, criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, theft, and disorderly conduct.

They include community service hours, apology letter, restitution, educational workshops, Youth Court jury duty, or additional sanctions

Youth Court is voluntary, therefore youth and their parents or guardians have the right to refuse the option of Youth Court. Parents or guardians must notify the Youth Court supervisor and the case will be filed by the district attorney's office or school administration for disciplinary action. Failure to appear at the initial hearing will result in further action.

Hearings involve the respondent, the parent or guardian, attorneys, judges, juries and bailiffs. Respondents and volunteers must be between the ages of 10-17. Volunteers who are 18 years old and a senior in high school may also participate. The program is operated under the guidance of Johnson County District Attorney's Office, legal interns and school sponsors.

Interested students may participate in a Youth Court session as a juror and can attend training sessions to become a Youth Court volunteer. Trained students who have served on two juries are eligible to work as attorneys, judges, bailiffs, and clerks. Attorneys and judges should arrive at the courthouse no later than 5:30 p.m., and jurors should arrive no later than 5:45 p.m.

Various volunteer positions (judges, prosecuting and defense attorneys, bailiffs, jury members) are available for youth ages 10-17. Youth participants may determine their own level of involvement. All Youth Court participants receive training related to their role, as well as community service hours for time spent volunteering.