Benefits and barriers to youth court implementation: Recommendations for moving forward

Abstract

This study assesses the benefits of youth court participation for respondents, defendants, and peer volunteers, as well as barriers to implementation, recommendations to address the barriers, and resources necessary for the development and sustainability of youth courts. A mixed methods research design was employed using a quantitative survey (N = 53) and qualitative interviews (N = 31). Study participants included stakeholders with experience with school-based and/or community-based or justice-involved youth courts. Benefits to respondents and defendants reportedly include a reduction in suspensions/expulsions, and these youth turned their lives around. Benefits to peer volunteers span interpersonal and personal development. Barriers to implementation include buy-in from the school and juvenile justice system administrations and inconsistent administration of the courts, the need to address the youths' mental health issues, building cultural change from punishment to restorative justice, and territorial issues. The stakeholders offer recommendations and resources necessary to address the barriers uncovered. We interpret the findings within the context of the youth court literature and highlight next steps for moving forward with youth court development, sustainability, and effectiveness.