What is the main function of a "youth court" or "teen court"?

The primary function of a "youth court" or "teen court" is to provide a peer-driven approach for accountability. This system allows young people who have committed minor offenses to face consequences for their actions in a setting that emphasizes responsibility, rehabilitation, and community involvement, rather than punishment.

In a youth court, juvenile offenders typically appear before a jury composed of their peers. These peers deliberate and decide appropriate consequences or sanctions that the offender will have to fulfill. The emphasis is on enabling young people to learn from their mistakes in a constructive environment where they are held accountable by their peers, fostering a sense of responsibility and encouraging positive behavior change.

This peer-mediated approach not only helps the offenders reflect on their actions but also aids in reinforcing community values and support for rehabilitation rather than solely focusing on punitive measures. As a result, it serves as an alternative to traditional court proceedings, offering a more restorative form of justice for youth.

Other options, while related to juvenile justice, do not capture the central aim of youth courts as effectively. For instance, youth courts do not aim to severely punish juvenile offenders, nor do they intend to replace the traditional court system entirely. While education is a component, it is not the main function of youth courts, which