Youth Courts in Pennsylvania

A Snapshot of Pennsylvania Youth Courts

Assembled by Hannah Klein with support from Gregg Volz, Stoneleigh Fellow.

Through previously acquired  information and word of mouth, but primarily due to new inquiries, we have assembled a snapshot of youth courts in the Commonwealth. Some of these courts have been open for years while others are just starting. Several youth courts have closed-particularly in Philadelphia. Although some new youth courts were uncovered during this review, others may have escaped notice. This report highlights the history, structure, types of offenses, and dispositions rendered in each of the active youth courts.

            

Youth courts occur in both school and community settings. It appears that during the 20101-2011 school year there were 10 school-based youth courts functioning in Pennsylvania but approximately 24 are planned for this year. Last year there were 7 juvenile justice courts functioning and this year  8-9 will operate. Hence we anticipate the total number of Pennsylvania youth courts will double this year-a remarkable development in light of the economic crisis. Of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties, 9 had youth courts last year, 11 will have youth courts this year, and 6 counties have expressed an interest in starting a youth court. Youth courts are growing in popularity in Pennsylvania.

Map of Current Youth Courts in Pennsylvania