- The St. Johns County Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller runs the Teen Court program in compliance with St. Johns County Ordinance 2005-86. This program is built on the idea that young people who commit criminal offenses are less likely to re-offend if judged and sanctioned by a jury of their peers.
- Adult Volunteers play a vital role in ensuring the success, safety, and professionalism of the Teen Court program. They help facilitate the court process, support youth development, and ensure adherence to program procedures and county ordinances.
- In Teen Court, a jury of teens doesn’t decide if a person is guilty or not—they only give a fair sentence to help the offender make better choices. Before the case is presented to a jury, the juvenile offender must admit to the charge and agree to participate voluntarily. This program is available to offenders who have committed misdemeanors and non-violent felony offenses. If the offender completes their sentence, they can move forward without having a criminal record.
Major Duties
- Supervise and guide teens during court sessions.
- Monitor and assist in maintaining courtroom decorum and appropriate behavior.
- Provide feedback when appropriate.
- Provide mentorship and guidance to student volunteers serving in legal roles.
- Assist with training sessions for new volunteers, including mock trials and orientation activities.
- Reinforce the program’s educational and rehabilitative goals through constructive engagement.
The St. Johns County Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller runs the Teen Court program in compliance with St. Johns County Ordinance 2005-86. This program is built on the idea that young people who commit criminal offenses are less likely to re-offend if judged and sanctioned by a jury of their peers.
In Teen Court, a jury of teens doesn’t decide if a person is guilty or not—they only give a fair sentence to help the offender make better choices. Before the case is presented to a jury, the juvenile offender must admit to the charge and agree to participate voluntarily. This program is available to offenders who have committed misdemeanors and non-violent felony offenses. If the offender completes their sentence, they can move forward without having a criminal record.
Major Duties
The Teen Court process provides student volunteers with:
- Opportunity to demonstrate their capacity for self-government and responsible citizenship, and to prepare for jury duty in adulthood.
- Opportunity to receive training and mentoring from adult attorneys, judges, and court staff.
- Educational “hands-on” experience with the legal system.
- Community service hours for graduation and scholarship opportunities.
You may submit your application by email to: cochumanresources@stjohnsclerk.com or in person to the St. Johns County Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller. All information you submit is subject to verification. Notify Human Resources at (904) 819-3605 directly and in advance if, due to a disability, you require special accommodations to participate further in the application process.
