Youth Court

Elmira Youth Court Program

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The Elmira Youth Court provides an alternative to the traditional criminal justice system for young people who have committed an offense. Its mission is to intervene in early delinquent or anti-social cases, reducing recidivism, and preventing future criminal activity.  

As a diversion program, Elmira Youth Court offers first-time offenders the opportunity to avoid the criminal justice system or Family Court.  Instead, they are held accountable by a court of their peers.  This unique approach not only provides offenders with a second chance, but also gives youth members firsthand experience in the justice system by serving as facts attorneys, law guardians, clerks, and judges.   


A Proactive Response to Juvenile Crime 

Founded in 1997, the Elmira Youth Court was established in response to rising juvenile crime.  The program allows youth offenders to correct their mistakes without obtaining a criminal record.  Instead of traditional sentencing, offenders may be assigned:

  • Community service 
  • Essay or report reflecting on their actions
  • Letter of apology 
  • Educational classes
  • Youth Assistance Program
  • Journaling 
  • Other rehabilitative measures


A High-Impact Program

The Elmira Youth Court program handles on average 140 cases annually, serving the City of Elmira and the Elmira City School District, Elmira Heights, Horseheads, and the Chemung County area.  Referrals come from School Resource Officers (SRO)/ Special Police Officers (SPO), police agencies, school administrators, and parents/guardians. 

The program has seen success with nearly 88% of participants completing their sentences.  Some offenders continue volunteering for the organizations where they served their community service.  Others develop an interest in the legal system and return to Youth Court as members.  


Becoming a Youth Court Member

With over 120 active members, Youth Court participants serve as clerks, facts attorneys, law guardians, and judges.  To join, students must successfully complete a law-related training program, covering:

  • The criminal justice system
  • Youth Court structure, jurisdiction, and procedures
  • Penal law and sentencing 
  • Crime consequences and rehabilitation 
  • Evidence and courtroom procedures

The training concludes with a bar exam, followed by interviews with the Youth Court Coordinator and a panel of Youth Court members.  Selected members sign a confidentiality agreement and take on key roles in handling cases.  


Get Involved

Students in grades 7-11 who attend school in the Elmira City School District, Notre Dame High School, area private schools and/or reside in Chemung County are eligible to apply.  If you have any questions as to whether you are eligible candidate, please call me at 607-737-5802

 

New Member Training begins in October of each year.

 Applications are available by calling the Elmira Youth Court office or click on the link below.  For questions, please call the Elmira Youth Court Coordinator at 607-737-5802.

If you have any questions, please email the Youth Court Coordinator (lmiller@cityofelmira.net).

 

Referrals

 If you are having issues or concerns with a youth between the ages of 7-15, please contact the Elmira Youth Court Coordinator for further information.