Constructive Sentencing: The Far Rockaway Youth Court holds young people accountable for their actions by requiring them to pay back the community for their offense. Sanctions include community service, letters of apology, essays or skill building workshops on topics like conflict resolution and goal setting. Youth court staff work closely with respondents to ensure that they complete sanctions as mandated.

Access to Help: Adult staff members are responsible for making an initial assessment of each youth court respondent and for linking them to appropriate social services. Some services, such as conflict resolution workshops, may also be part of a respondent’s sanctions.

 Youth graduating from court.

Peer Leadership: To ensure that respondents are judged by a true cross section of their peers, Youth Court members—ranging from 14 to 18 years old—are recruited from the community. Young people who have previously had contact with the police or courts are strongly encouraged to apply. Participants receive 30 hours of pre-service training on critical thinking, precision questioning, active listening and youth court protocols. In addition, they participate in on-going, intensive youth development and team-building activities to help cultivate their leadership skills.