What process do Teen Courts utilize to handle minor offenses?

Teen Courts utilize peer sentencing as a process to handle minor offenses because this approach empowers young people to take responsibility for their actions in a supportive environment. In Teen Courts, instead of traditional courtroom proceedings led by a judge, a jury composed of peers, often other youth, hears the case. The peers are responsible for determining appropriate consequences for the offender, typically focusing on reparative and constructive outcomes rather than punitive measures. This process not only allows for accountability but also encourages growth and learning among the participants by engaging them actively in the justice process. The involvement of peers helps foster a sense of community responsibility and may also lead to a reduction in recidivism, as young offenders are held accountable by their contemporaries in a manner that is perceived as fairer and more relatable to their experiences.