Midland Teen Court Inc

Mission: To provide an alternative system of justice for the youth to promote accountability and community engagement. Teens Helping Teens!

Midland Teen Court, established in 1986 as a collaborative project of the Junior League of Midland, the City of Midland, Midland ISD, and Midland County, is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to offering young offenders a second chance. Teen Court allows youth ages 10-18 (or still enrolled in high school) to appear before a peer jury, accept constructive consequences, and clear their record upon successful completion. Over 18,900 cases have been referred since its inception, fostering a positive impact on the judicial system and the community. Through sessions held at the Midland County Courthouse, Teen Court engages youth in hands-on learning about the justice system, citizenship, and personal responsibility.

Midland Teen Court uses peer-led justice as an educational and rehabilitative opportunity for young offenders. Participants accept constructive consequences such as community service, jury duty, and educational classes, helping them avoid a permanent court record. Volunteer teens serve as jurors, attorneys, and leaders, gaining skills in public speaking, law, mediation, and leadership.

The program reduces court backlogs, decreases recidivism, and protects youth from exposure to more severe offenders, all while teaching accountability, responsibility, and citizenship. Teen Court also benefits families by fostering positive dialogue about justice and offering the community restitution for juvenile offenses through youth-led community service.

By promoting self-improvement and leadership, Midland Teen Court equips all participants with valuable life skills and a deeper understanding of the justice system, building better citizens for the future.