Welcome to Ontario County

Youth Court

This peer-led, peer-based program is an opportunity to gain a better understanding of the US court system, all while ensuring fellow youth in Ontario County get the help they need.

Youth Court is a diversionary program that aims to help youth avoid further involvement in the justice system through the practices of Restorative Justice.

 

What Happens During Youth Court?


Here’s the breakdown…

  1. Before new members participate in real cases they will need to complete a mandatory 8-10 week, 20 hour training. 

  2. Youth Court is a voluntary program, so the respondent has taken accountability for their actions prior to arriving to court. 

  3. The case is then considered by the members of the Youth Court, as they hold the roles of judge, prosecution, defense, Jury and bailiff, with an adult serving as the Program Director and coordinator. During deliberation, sanction obligation is decided. This can include community service, a letter of apology, written essays, counseling, peer jury, or educational workshops. 

  4. The case is finalized upon sanction completion.


Real Cases. Real Impact.


91% of youth who committed minor offenses and participated in our program had no further involvement in the juvenile justice system


1,150+ youth courts operate in the U.S.


90+ volunteer OCYC members


≈ 65 cases a year in Ontario County

2024 Youth Court Awards

Congratulations to our 2024 Award winners and new inductees!

Seniors:

Mollie Asquino

Michael Ricci

Katelyn Reynolds

Zachary Long

Stephanie Mirras

Toby Prescott

Deborah Vigh

Trevor Ike

Noah Herr Necker

Service Award Recipeints:

Our service award is presented to those Youth Court members who display exemplary commitment and dedication to the program through their efforts and participation

Persephone wood

Tristan Hayflinger

Grace Ross

Stephanie Mirras

Gemma Liberti

Zack Long

Leadership Award Recipants:

The Leadership award is given to Youth Court members who embolden and inspire others to pursue a path toward progress and growth. 

Fernando Soberon

Aryan Moore

Pinnacle Award Recipants:

The Pinnacle Award is awarded to Steering Committee Members who display stellar performance in Youth Court endeavors. These individuals consistently go beyond the requirements of their position and are thoroughly knowledgeable about the Youth Court process.   

Michael Ricci

Deborah Vigh

Anna Nicholson

Top hours Award:

In 3rd place with 42.25hours Lola Diamond

In 2nd place with 46 hours Persephone Wood

in 1st place with 49.5 hours, we have Jenna Lapp

Member of the year award:

The Youth Court Member of the Year award is given to one Youth Court member who has gone above and beyond in demonstrating their sense of character, commitment, and leadership to exceed expectations both personal and program related.

Jenna Lapp

New Inductees:

Dane Marshall, Paul Merrit, Audry Bapst, Bristol Brancato, Sarah Allen, Claire Iascone, Elani Kanellopoulos, Luca Allis

Congratulations 2023 Youth Court Award Recipients!

2023 Annual Youth Court Awards


Be a Leader in Youth Court.
The Future is US.

Older generations are looking to us for our world’s tomorrow. Youth Court is our chance to do something today. Make a genuine impact for youth in our own community and grow alongside a team of leaders, public speakers, critical thinkers, and conflict mediators. This community service opportunity speaks volumes to your commitment to change and we encourage you to include it on your resume.

Support each other. Rise together.