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.
Court is in Session
What Happens During Youth Court?
Here’s the breakdown…
Before new members participate in real cases they will need to complete a mandatory 8-10 week, 20 hour training.
Youth Court is a voluntary program, so the respondent has taken accountability for their actions prior to arriving to court.
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.
The case is finalized upon sanction completion.
Real Cases. Real Impact.
In 2023 and 2024, 100% 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 2025 Award winners and new inductees!
Seniors:
Anna Nicholson
Aryan Moore
Adrian Bapst
Brianna Cafarelli
Logan Kendall
Sarah Allen
Tristan Hayflinger
Service Award Recipients:
Our service award is presented to those Youth Court members who display exemplary commitment and dedication to the program through their efforts and participation.
Adrian Bapst
Bristol Brancato
Lola Diamond
Leadership Award Recipients:
The Leadership award is given to Youth Court members who embolden and inspire others to pursue a path toward progress and growth.
Luca Allis
Jenna Lapp
Percie Wood
Pinnacle Award Recipients:
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.
Gemma Liberti
Fernando Soberon
Brianna Cafarelli
Top hours Award:
In 3rd place- Elani Kanellopoulous
In 2nd place- Jenna Lapp
In 1st place- Percie Wood
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.
Brianna Cafarelli
New Inductees:
Sienna Zion, Alexander Neville, Zara-Jade Neville, Alyssa Dimarco, Andrew Istvan, Jonathan Tuthill, Samara Rodriguez, Lacie Simpson, Lily Brennan, Violet Fox, Zeca Santos, Izabelle Bollinger, Madeleine Streber, Alexus Streber, Quinn Mumby, Shannon Doyle, Elise Reidy, Madelyn Bracci, Jasmine Crawford, Paris Crawford, Fairouz Mekhaimer, Layla Softic, Solana Shea, Rainna McLetchie, Oliver Straub, Caitlyn Coene, Emma Sullivan, Abigail jones, Taylor Zanghi, Grace Lewis, Lucy Johnson, Kennedy Mumby and Brooklyn Fahy
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.