Teen Court is an innovative alternative to the traditional justice system designed for first- and second-time, non-violent youth offenders aged 10 to 18. This program is founded on the principles of balanced and restorative justice, where sentences are determined by a volunteer jury of teen peers. Successful completion of the program allows participants to avoid having a court record for their offense.

Targeted Offenses

The program specifically targets juvenile participants of misdemeanor crimes, including:

  • Theft
  • Curfew violations
  • Trespassing
  • Possession of drugs or alcohol
  • Vaping
  • Cyberbullying
  • Battery

Sentencing

Sentences for participants typically include:

  • Community service hours
  • Participation in the TRACK class (Taking Responsibilities and Accepting Choices through Knowledge)
  • Additional tasks such as letters of apology, essays, self-love journal
  • Serve time as a peer juror (jury terms)

Eligibility

To participate in Teen Court, youth must meet the following criteria:

  • Aged between 10 and 18
  • Admitted to their offense
  • Have no gang affiliations
  • A fee of $75 is required for participation in the Teen Court program.

Referral Process

Referrals to Teen Court are made by arresting officers from collaborating Police Departments.

Partnering Police Departments

Nicasa operates Teen Courts in partnership with several local police departments, including:

  • Fox Lake
  • Gurnee
  • Island Lake
  • Lake County Sheriff’s Department
  • Lakemoor
  • North Chicago
  • Round Lake
  • Round Lake Beach
  • Round Lake Heights
  • Round Lake Park
  • Wauconda
  • Waukegan
Teen Court
Teen Court

Court Locations and Sessions

There are currently four Teen Courts across the county:

  • 2 in Round Lake Beach
  • 1 in Gurnee
  • 1 in Fox Lake

Teen Court sessions are held once a month in each community.

Nicasa’s Teen Court is the largest in the state of Illinois and has been operating since 1996, providing valuable support and rehabilitation for young participants. If you would like to learn more, please contact the main office (847) 546-6450 and ask for the Teen Court Coordinator.