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 Teencourt-man.RTF |
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Teencourt-man.RTF |
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This manual is lengthy. You may want to use the links to read a few sample sections before you decide to print parts of the manual for your own use. Please be patient, the sections take a little while to load.
The documents on this site are the product of the Knox County Teen Court, 55 West Tompkins Street, Galesburg, Illinois. (April 1998)
Name: ______________________ Mailing Address, City, State, Zip:_____________________________ Phone: __________ Date of Birth: ________________ Age:____________ School Attending: _______________________________ Grade: __________
How did you find out about Teen Court? ____________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________
Why do you want to participate in Teen Court? _______________________________ ____________________________________________________________________
Teen Court meets Monday nights. Please list all sports and activities that may keep you from attending court on that night :
Activities Time _______________________ ____________________ _______________________ ____________________ _______________________ ____________________ _______________________ ____________________ _______________________ ____________________
I would be interested in participating as a(n): (Check all that apply)
Attorney _________ Juror ___________ Clerk _________ Bailiff ___________
For additional information, please call Knox County Teen Court Office at (309) 345-3800.
I solemnly swear that I will not divulge, either by words or signs, any information about actual cases which comes to my knowledge in the course of a Teen Court presentation, and that I will keep secret all said proceedings which may be held in my presence.
Further, I understand that if I break confidentiality by telling anyone else the names of Teen Court defendants or any other specific details of the case which may identify that juvenile, I will no longer be able to serve as a Teen Court participant.
Date: ______________________________________________________
Signature: ___________________________________________
I/ We, _____________________________________, as the parent/guardian of (Printed Name of Student) __________________________, hereby agree to allow him/her to participate in (Printed name of Student) the Knox County Teen Court Program. IT IS FURTHER AGREED AND UNDERSTOOD, that as a condition of participation in the Teen Court Program, I/We promise to hold harmless the Teen Court Board of Directors, its Coordinator, employees and volunteers, any school district in Knox County and its employees, duly authorized law enforcement officers in any municipality in Knox County, the American Legion Auxiliary and its volunteers and any community service agency or individuals, from any and all actions, causes of action, or any claims whatsoever, which may arise out of participation in any activities of the Teen Court Program, including any coming and going. Dated this _____________ day of____________________ 199__ .
Parent/Guardian Signature: _____________________________________
Printed Name: _______________________________________________
Telephone: __________________________________________________
Please list two emergency contacts below:
_________________________________________________________________ Name Address Phone _________________________________________________________________ Name Address PhoneLiability Waver
1. Check in with Teen Court Staff person to get your envelopes. Meet defendants and introduce them to their defense attorney.
2. Make sure attorneys, defendant, and judge are present. Inform Teen Court Staff of any missing people.
3. Meet with the Judge and with the Clerk. Introduce yourself and ask about any instructions from him/her.
4. A few minutes before trial, check that defendant, parents, staff, attorneys and judge are ready to begin. Inform clerk.
5.Stand outside the jury room and wait for jury to line up behind you. Lead them into the courtroom when clerk is sure that all are present.
6. Walk into the courtroom. As you enter, stop. Say:
"ALL RISE. THIS COURT, IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF KNOX, IS NOW IN SESSION, THE HONORABLE _____________ PRESIDING."
7. Lead the jury to the jury box.
8. Take your seat next to the jury box.
1. After the case has been presented, and at the judge's request, say "ALL RISE" and escort the jury to the jury room. Give one of the jurors the sentencing form and stand outside the door to prevent any contact with the jury. You should also be aware if the jury becomes too loud, knock and ask them to be quieter.
2. The jury will notify you (usually by knocking) that they have reached a verdict
3. Notify the judge and all participants that the jury has reached a verdict.
4. When all participants are present in the court room say "ALL RISE" and escort the jury back into the courtroom.
5. When the judge asks for the sentencing form, take it from the jury foreperson and give it to the judge.
6. When the judge gives the sentence back to you, give it to the jury foreman.
1. When the judge dismisses the jury, say "ALL RISE"
2. Lead the jury from the room.
1. Check in with Teen Court Staff person to get your envelopes.
2. Take jury list to the defendant and attorney to check for conflicts.
3. Make sure proper information is listed on both the docket and sentence recommendation form.
4. Get jury list from defense attorney.
5. Meet with the Judge and the bailiff. Introduce yourself and ask for any instructions from him/her.
6. With staff person, assign jurors (minimum of 7). WATCH FOR CONFLICTS.
7. Check with bailiff so that everyone is ready to go. Call jury list and check that all jurors are present.
8. Enter courtroom and take seat to the right of the judge in the clerk's box.
1. When the judge asks, stand and swear in the jury. Have all jurors stand and raise their right hands as you ask the following, loud, clear and slowly:
"DO YOU SOLEMNLY SWEAR OR AFFIRM THAT YOU WILL OBJECTIVELY WEIGH THE ISSUES IN THIS CASE AND RENDER A SENTENCE ACCORDING TO THE EVIDENCE AND GUIDELINES OF TEEN COURT?"
2. Be seated.
3. When the judge requests, stand and swear in the defendant. Have the defendant raise his/her right hand as you ask the following:
"DO YOU SOLEMNLY SWEAR OR AFFIRM THAT THE TESTIMONY YOU ARE ABOUT TO GIVE WILL BE THE TRUTH, THE WHOLE TRUTH, AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH?"
4. Be seated.
1. Make sure the signatures of the judge and jury foreperson are on the court sentencing form.
2. Make sure the staff person assigned to the case gets the court sentencing form.
1. A defense attorney is an advocate for the defendant. The defendant should be represented in the best possible light. While the defense attorney must zealously seek to help his/her client, he/she must never misrepresent the case. To prepare the case, the defense attorney should be familiar with the aggravating and mitigating circumstances.
2. The defense attorney will have the opportunity to meet with the defendant and prepare his/her case. The defense attorney should contact the defendant by phone if at all possible prior to the evening of the trial and get some basic information about the case. Meet 1/2 hour before the trial with the defendant and his/her parent or guardian to join 1st hand information and prepare for the trial. The defense attorney will interview the defendant to learn the circumstances surrounding the offense. The defense attorney does not encourage the defendant to change his/her story in hopes of a lighter verdict, but stresses that the defendant must remain true to the facts. At this time, the defense attorney should also familiarize the defendant with the hearing proceedings.
3. Once the hearing has started, and the jury has been sworn in, the defense attorney should introduce himself/herself at this time (and introduce defendant and colleagues, if any).
4. The defense attorney will make an opening statement.
5. Both the Defense and the Prosecuting Attorney will question the defendant.
6. Be sure to recommend a sentence as a part of the closing argument.
1. A prosecutor has the responsibility to seek justice and to advocate for a verdict based on the severity of the offense.
2. The prosecuting attorney will prepare for the case. The prosecutor will be provided with a copy of the police report giving facts regarding the particular case to be heard.
3. After the jury has been sworn in and the case is called, the prosecutor begins by giving an opening statement. The prosecutor should introduce himself/herself and (colleagues) if any. In the opening statement, the prosecutor should state the defendant's offense and cite the appropriate Illinois Statute. The prosecutor will let the court know what he/she intends to provide and why he/she plans to advocate for a harsh verdict.
4. Next, the prosecutor will question the defendant (direct examination). The questions should be relevant to the offense and should elicit responses that justify the prosecutor's verdict recommendations. Questioning can include why the defendant committed the offense, or that the defendant was the one who started the fight.
5. Following direct examination by both attorneys, the prosecutor will have the opportunity to cross-examine the defendant on the testimony already brought out through direct examination.
6. Lastly, when the questioning of the defendant is completed, the prosecutor will give a closing argument to the jury. It should be organized and supported by the evidence. The prosecutor can point out the reasons why he/she would like the jury to recommend a particular verdict.
7. Be sure to recommend a sentence as a part of the closing argument.
1. Register and sign the confidentiality oath and put on your badge.
2. Check in with the court clerk.
3. Look at docket sheet to see if there is a defendant with whom you feel there may be a conflict.
4. Follow the instructions of the bailiff assigned to your jury.
1 Follow the bailiff to the Jury Box. Judge will ask you to rise again and be sworn in.
2. Do not visit with other jurors.
3. Listen attentively to the attorneys' questions and the Defendant' s answers.
4. When it is time to retire to the deliberation room, follow your bailiff.
1. Jury quickly appoints a foreman. A new foreman will be chosen for each case so all jury members will have the opportunity to serve in this capacity. The Foreman will lead deliberations. Use the Sentence Option Chart. The Foreman will record the decisions of the jury on the Jury Report Form.
2. The jury foreman will be responsible for conducting the deliberation session, writing the consequences and reading the sentence to the Defendant in the courtroom.
3. New jurors will be joining the jury because they are Defendants who have been sentenced to jury duty. Please show respect for them. Defendants may not serve as a jury foreman.
4. All jurors are to be responsible for maintaining order, proceeding with deliberations as quickly as possible and contributing to the deliberation process.
5. Remember, jury members are only dealing with information which was put forth in the court session. Personal knowledge of the Defendant and what they have or have not done should not be brought up or considered in deliberations.
6. What about the believability of the witness? You will need to consider their demeanor when testifying, their character, their degree of remorse and any consistent/inconsistent statements made by them. You also need to consider the extent of their ability or willingness to recollect or communicate their testimony, and their attitude toward the case.
7. You are there to do a job. Keep your personal experiences out of your decision making and do not share your personal experiences with the other jurors to try and sway the decision one way or another. Consider only the information presented in the courtroom.
8. If Defendant jurors bring up the sentences they received for a similar offense, the Foreman is to quickly tell them that information is not pertinent for this case. Jurors are to disregard those statements and decide the consequences solely on the basis of the information presented in court.
9. Tell your bailiff when:
1) Jury deliberations are over.
2) Your have the Jury Report Form completed; and
3) You are ready to return to the courtroom.
1. When asked for, give the Jury Report Form to the bailiff.
2. When the judge asks, "Has the Jury reached a decision?" the foreman will stand and say, "Yes, we have, Your Honor".
3. When the judge asks the foreman will read the sentence in a loud and clear voice.
As a juror on Teen Court, you will have an opportunity to participate in a very important part of your democracy --- jury duty. You are required to base your sentence upon the evidence as you hear it in court and upon the law as the Judge instructs you in it. You are obligated to perform honestly and conscientiously, without fear or favor.
Jurors must be 12-18 years old. An exception is made for defendants who return as volunteers after the completion of the requirements of their sentence.
In discharging your duties as a juror, conduct yourself in such a way that no one can question your uprightness. You are a judicial officer through your participation in TEEN COURT and must not arouse the distrust of the most suspicious.
In case of any questions regarding the trial, the Judge should be consulted. The Judge is always ready and available to determine all questions of law pertaining to the case.
You are advised that you will retire to the jury rroom and first select a foreman from your group. You will then proceed with determining the sentence recommendation that you will make to the court regarding this offense. You are instructed that the verdict of the jury must be unanimous. When you have completed your deliberations and are ready to return to the courtroom, please give your jury report to the bailiff.
PLEASE RETURN THIS SHEET TO THE COURT
THE RESULTS OF YOUR DELIBERATION WILL BE KEPT CONFIDENTIAL UNTIL ANNOUNCED IN COURT. YOU WILL NOT DISCUSS THIS CASE WITH ANYONE DURING OR AFTER THE TRIAL. THANK YOU.
An opening statement is basically the introduction to your case. Like any proper introduction, the opening statement will first present your thesis statement, which is the main idea upon which your case is based and will list your facts or evidence.
Example:
Defense: John could not have meant to steal the pens because they were not on his person at the time he was apprehended.
Prosecution: John intended to steal the pens. Although he did not have them on him at the time he was stopped by the clerk, the clerk did see him put the pens in his pocket.
A closing statement is the conclusion to your case. You must restate your main ideas and thesis, but most importantly, must add any new evidence as learned in the trial and must minimize any inconsistencies brought forth.
1. Look up and define the crime in the penal law book.
2. State the defendant's name and the time and place of the crime.
3. Be concise. Emphasize words most important to your case.
1. First Impressions are important!
2. The value of the opening statement is grossly understated.
3. You can prepare for the opening statement, but not for the closing statement.You need to remain flexible with your closing statement.
1. State the facts clearly.
2. Tell the jury the purpose of the opening a. explain their role b. outline the evidence
1 Do not overstate your case. Create a good first impression, but understate your case just a bit.
2. Be sure your evidence is acceptable. Do not promise to show something that you cannot.
3. Listen to your opponents opening; check for admissions, overstatements, etc.
4. Explain the issues and the elements of the case.
5. Use visual aids where necessary.
6. Do not summarize your opponent's case.
7. End with what you think are the opponent's weaknesses.
1. A closing statement is your review of the evidence with the jury in a final attempt to persuade the jury.
1. Thank the jury in moderation.
2. Review previous representation
a. Make the most of "I told you so" information.
b. Emphazize your opponent's misstatements.
3. Issues
a. Prosecution: make the jury's decision a simple one-issue verdict.
b. Defense: create as many issues and as much doubt as possible.
4. Analyze witnesses and their credibility
a. Where there is conflict in testimony, analyze your opponent's witnesses first.
b. Opponent's Witnesses:
i. Point out undesirable characteristics
ii. Point out all family relationships
iii. Point out their interest in income
iv. Point out the improbabilities of their testimony
c. Reverse the above to show the positive sides of your witnesses.
5. Tell the jury what the law is - refresh their memories and explain why you are entitled to the verdict you want.
6. Explain away your weaknesses.
7. Expose your opponent's weaknesses.
1. Do not read your material aloud.
2. Maintain eye contact.
3. Be aware of your voice tone.
4. Do not make statements such as "that witness is a jerk." Be demonstrative.
5. Do not talk down to the jury, but do not use five-syllable words when three-syllable words will do.
6. Be courteous. Avoid mud-slinging or name-calling.
7. Be careful and subtle, except when you catch a liar.
8. Use visual aids.
9. Bring out your own weaknesses as early as possible.
10. Do not change the story thinking no one will pick up on it.
11. Stay away from forensic or irrelevant arguments, e.g. appeals to sympathy, prejudice.
12. Keep the jury interested.
a. Move around.
b. Put expression in your voice.
13. At the End of the Closing Statement, Recommend a Sentence.
Narrative Technique Let defendant tell story first--if properly prepared, defendant will need few questions. If important point is omitted by defendant, ask questions to refresh his or her memory.Direct Question Technique Use where defendant is unable to narrate without guidance; tactically advantageous.
Use short driving questions such as Who was there? What was said? Where was it said? When was it said? How much did he want?
"Why" questions are usually not permitted. (Why something happened should be obvious from the other questions.)
1. Establish that defendant being examined is lying on one or more material points. 2. Impeach defendant by showing a prior contradictory statement.
Not always necessary or desirable.
An attempt to prove bad character of the defendant may provoke sympathy in the jury.Cross-examinations intended to bring out matters about which the defense failed to inquire in the belief that you will receive favorable answers may result in more unfavorable evidence.
Asking a "why" question in the belief that there is no reasonable explanation may result in statement of prejudicial arguments that would have been clearly inadmissible in the absence of the open question.
Asking repetitive questions and additional details usually just strengthens the direct testimony. Only do so when necessary to lay the foundation when there is a direct contradiction. Asking trick questions generally accomplishes little and creates sympathy.
Objections are an attorney's way of formally notifying a judge that opposing counsel is not following the Rules of evidence and of requesting the judge to make a ruling on the issue. Objections should be made after the question has been asked, but before the answer has been given. Once the witness has answered the question it is too late to make an objection. An objection should be made if it is apparent the question calls for inadmissible matter, e.g. hearsay, or that the question is in improper form, e.g. leading.If the question calls for an answer that is apparently admissible, but the answer itself is inadmissible, e.g. hearsay, the objection is made by way of a motion to strike.
An objection must state the reason for the objection. A list of common objections follows:
1. Improper question;
2. Confusing question;
3. Leading question;
4. Suggestive question;
5. Argumentative question;
6. Speculative question;
7. Question beyond the scope;
8. Irrelevant question;
9. Repetitious question;
10. Question assuming a fact not in evidence;
11. Multiplicitous question;
12. Question calls for an immaterial answer;
13. Question calls for an opinion;
14. Question calls for hearsay;
15. Question calls for a speculative answer;
16. Improper predicate;
17. Answer is not responsive;
18. Answer is argumentative;
19. Answer is evasive.
1. Repetitious
2. Leading and suggestive
3. Argumentative
4. Misleading to the defendant or jury
5. Hypothetical
1. Unresponsive
2. Argumentative
3. Goes beyond the scope of the question
1. Hearsay - an answer that is not based on personal knowledge
2. Irrelevant or immaterial
3. Repetitious
4. Assumed facts that are not in evidence
5. An improper test, such as value
1. Prompting the witness
2. Attempting to intimidate the witness
3. Arguing with the witness
4. Using abusive language
The objection must be made when the evidence is tendered, not after the witness has answered.
The objection must be supported by a stated ground.
All objections must be addressed to the bench, not to the opposing attorney.
Defendant and/or counsel cannot figure out what the questions mean. Very important that the question be properly stated so defendant will give the correct answer, rather than attempted answer.
Should be distinguished from "cumulative" which pertains to the repetition of evidence. Probably best used to stop endless direct examination.
Permits opposing counsel to badger defendant into changing his story even though he may not mean to do so.
Question may trap the defendant into impliedly affirming the truth of assumed facts, without meaning to do so. This question may be incorporated into a hypothetical question so pay close attention to this type of question being made. This question usually starts with "Do you know," "Have you heard," or "Do you remember."
If forced to answer the question, the defendant may answer one part not meaning to answer the other part. However, if the answer is permitted to stand, it will cover both sections of the question. Example: "Isn't it true that you were drinking a beer on the beach, and someone said you were harassing the public with name calling?"
1. I know that I can talk to an attorney (at any time) about entering into a Knox County Teen Court Agreement.
2. I know the attorney can look at my police report, tell me about the law(s), help me understand my rights, and help me decide if I should enter into a diversion agreement or go to court.
3. I understand that participation in the Knox County Teen Court Diversion program is wholly voluntary and that I am not required to participate and may at any time terminate my participation. I further understand that my termination of participation will result in my case being referred back to the referring agency for further prosecution.
4. I have decided not to employ an attorney at this time.
_______________________________ Parent or Guardian Signature _________________________________ _________ Juvenile's Signature Date
The above statements were read to, signed by, and a copy given to the juvenile on the date indicated above.
_________________________ _________ Knox County Teen Coordinator Date
Waiver of Right to an Attorney
Teen Court is a court diversion program specifically designed for misdemeanor youthful offenders who have no prior court record. Participation by all parties is totally voluntary. All participants are required to tell the truth and each takes an Oath of Confidentiality. In Teen Court, specially trained teenagers fulfill the roles of prosecuting and defense attorneys, clerks, bailiffs, and jurors.
The purpose of Teen Court is to direct cases away from circuit court and provide a forum for the defendants (who admit guilt) to explain their involvement in the offense. The defendants in Teen Court are sentenced by their peers. A jury of trained student volunteers and previously sentenced defendants, listen to the attorneys present arguments both for and against the defendant's involvement in the case. It is then the duty of the jury to talk over the important points raised and unanimously agree to an appropriate sentence. The judge approves the sentence and the defendant and their parents or guardians sign a contract agreeing to carry out the sentence imposed.
As a DEFENDANT, you need to know and understand that only when these sanctions and conditions have been successfully completed will the referring agency be notified to close your case with no further action taken. In addition, you will have no court record at this time.
As a DEFENDANT, you need to know and understand that if you fail to complete each and every sanction and/or condition as set forth in the time frame given, or if you get arrested before you have completed the sentence, you will automatically be expelled from the program and referred back to the court.
IT IS FURTHER AGREED AND UNDERSTOOD, that as a condition of participation in the Teen Court Program, you and your parent or guardian promise to hold harmless the Teen Court Board of Directors, its Coordinator, employees and volunteers, any school district in Knox County and its employees, duly authorized law enforcement officers in any municipality in Knox County, the American Legion Auxiliary and its volunteers and any community service agency or individuals, from any and all actions, causes of action, or any claims whatsoever, which may arise out of participation in any activities of the Teen Court Program, including any coming and going.
I authorize the Teen Court Coordinator to release information to participants in the Teen Court Program.
With my signature, I acknowledge that I have read, or that some one has read and explained to me, the contents of the above mentioned AGREEMENT TO PARTICIPATE IN TEEN COURT. I understand my obligations to the program and I will abide by its requirements.
_________________ __________________________ Defendant Parent or Guardian ______________________ __________________________ Teen Court Coordinator Parent or Guardian _________________ Date
I, ____________________________________________ hereby give permission to
Parent or Guardian ___________________________________________________________ Community Service Agent
to call and obtain the services of a physician or hospital for medical or surgical care for _____________________________________________ should an emergency arise.
Youth
I understand that a conscientious effort will be made to locate me or my spouse before any action will be taken.
Mother' s or guardian's work phone ______________________________ Father' s or guardian's work phone _______________________________ Home phone ________________________________________________ Physician's phone ____________________________________________ Hospital preference ___________________________________________ Insurance ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________ ___________ Signature of Parent or Guardian Date ***********************************************************
State of Illinois
County of Knox
This instrument was acknowledged before me on the __________________________ day of ______________________________, 19___ , by____________________________.
_____________________ Teen Court Staff _____________________________ Teen Court Staff's Printed Name
DATE: ___________________
Docket Number ______________
Defendant ___________________________________________
Address ____________________________________________
Phone Number _______________________________________
OFFENSE: __________________________________________
COMMITTED (Date/Place): _____________________________________
PLEASE BRING THIS NOTICE WITH YOU. YOU MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY YOUR PARENT(S) OR GUARDIAN(S). AN ASSESSMENT FEE OF $25.00 WILL BE DUE AT THIS TIME.
If you have any questions, contact: Teen Court Coordinator: ________________
YOU ARE TO APPEAR FOR YOUR TEEN COURT TRIAL ACCOMPANIED BY YOUR PARENTS OR GUARDIAN, AT THE DATE AND TIME LISTED IN THE SUMMONS.
YOU SHOULD DRESS AS IF YOU WERE GOING TO A SPECIAL EVENT. BIB OVERALLS, BACKLESS OR BARE MIDRIFF OUTFITS ARE NOT APPROPRIATE ATTIRE FOR A COURTROOM.
BRING YOUR SUMMONS WITH YOU.
CHECK IN ON THE MAIN FLOOR WITH THE TEEN COURT STAFF.
YOUR BAILIFF WILL MEET YOU AND INTRODUCE YOU TO YOUR DEFENSE ATTORNEY AND ESCORT YOU TO A WAITING COURTROOM WHERE YOU WILL REVIEW YOUR CASE WITH YOUR ATTORNEY AND AWAIT CALL FOR YOUR TRIAL.
THE BAILIFF WILL ACCOMPANY YOU AND YOUR PARENT OR GUARDIAN TO THE APPROPRIATE COURTROOM.
YOUR PARENT OR GUARDIAN WILL BE SEATED IN THE FRONT ROW OR THE LEFT SIDE OF THE COURTROOM. YOU WILL BE CALLED TO THE WITNESS BOX AND SWORN IN BY THE TEEN COURT CLERK. YOU WILL BE QUESTIONED BY YOUR DEFENSE ATTORNEY AND CROSS EXAMINED BY THE STATE'S ATTORNEY.
THE JUDGE WILL INSTRUCT YOU WHAT TO DO AS YOU AWAIT THE JURY SENTENCE.
THE BAILIFF WILL SUMMONS YOU AND YOUR PARENT OR GUARDIAN WHEN THE JURY RETURNS WITH A SENTENCE IN YOUR TRIAL.
YOUR PARENT OR GUARDIAN WILL AGAIN BE SEATED. YOUR FIRST NAME WILL BE CALLED AND YOU WILL STAND AND FACE THE JURY AS THE SENTENCE IS READ.
YOU WILL THEN BE ASKED TO ACCEPT THE SENTENCE.
YOU AND YOUR PARENT OR GUARDIAN WILL RETURN TO THE WAITING COURTROOM WHERE TEEN COURT STAFF PERSON WILL MEET WITH YOU TO COMPLETE AND EXPLAIN ALL NECESSARY FORMS AND PAPERWORK.
DEFENDANT__________________________ CASE NO ___________
RECOMMENDED SENTENCE We, the Teen Court Jury, recommend that the Defendant, ____________________ receive the following constructive sentence for committing the offense of
_______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ X 1. Teen Court Basic Training (Mandatory) X 2. ____________ times Teen Court Jury Duty (Mandatory) __ 3. Written apology to: (Recommended) _____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ __ 4. Oral apology to: (Recommended) __ 5. ____________ Hours of Community Service __ 6. Decision Making, Peer Pressure or Violence Prevention Workshop () (Recommended) __ 7. Alcohol, Tobacco, Drug Abuse Evaluation. __ 8. Wal Mart Theft Seminar __ 9. Education Program (Specify: _________________________) __ 10. Research Paper (Describe: __________________________)
__ 11. Curfew (Specify:____________________________) __ 12. Restitution in the amount of $_________ to whom ___________________________________________________________ __ 13. Other (Specify:_______________________________________)
__________________ ________________________ DATE FOREMAN, TEEN COURT
Approved by:
_____________________ ____________________________ JUDGE, TEEN COURT TEEN COURT STAFF
******************************************************************************
I,______________________ , hereby accept the Court Sentence from Teen Court.
________________ __________________ (Parent/Guardian) (Defendant) ________________ ___________________________ (Parent/Guardian) (Teen Court Coordinator or Staff)
******************************************************************************
I,_________________ , hereby do not accept the Court Sentence from Teen Court.
__________________ __________________ (Parent/Guardian) (Defendant) __________________ ___________________________ (Parent/Guardian) (Teen Court Coordinator or Staff)
******************************************************************************
TO:__________________________________________
This is to introduce _________________________,who is to complete____________ hours of community service as part of his/her TEEN COURT agreement. Supervision of community service will be performed by___________________________________.
Teen Court has on file a Community Service Release, executed by the referenced youth and parent. A copy of that Release is available on request.
It is the youth's responsibility to return this notice in person or by mail to THE TEEN COURT COORDINATOR upon completion of assignment.
I hereby certify that the above named youth has completed ________________ hours.
________________________________
Signature
__________________
Date
If question arise, please contact TEEN COURT COORDINATOR:
Lolita Junk55 W. Tompkins Street
Galesburg, Illinois 61401
(309) 345-3800
Date of Referral___________________________ Case No. __________ Juvenile Name _________________________________ Address _________________________________ Phone _____________ Victim ____________________________________ Address _________________________________ Phone_____________
Offense & Date of Offense
___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________
Type of Restitution (Include Specific Amount & Time)
___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________
I agree that the above information is acceptable to me and will comply to the best of my ability
______________________ ___________________________ Juvenile Teen Court Coordinator ______________________ _____________________________ Juvenile's Parent or Guardian Juvenile's Parent or Guardian
Dear Teen Court Defendant,
An apology is a part of the recommended sentence of Knox County Teen Court. Nearly every minor who comes before Teen Court is required to apologize either orally, in writing, or both. The sentencing report that was given to you after the Teen Court hearing will indicate your apology sentence. Completed letters should be sealed, addressed, stamped and given to the Teen Court Coordinator to be mailed. IMPORTANT: If it is unclear to whom the letter should be sent, please send it to your parent(s) or guardian.
If you choose, you can use the following worksheet to help you organize the information to express your thoughts and feelings. Please call Teen Court Coordinator __________ with any questions at _______________.
Date_____________ Name of person or organization _________________________________ Street Address _______________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code _________________________________________
Dear _______________________________,
I was responsible for (doing what)
___________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________(when)________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ I am sorry because (why) __________________________________ ___________________________________________________________
Since the offense I have taken responsibility by (doing what)
___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________
The experience of my arrest, court hearing, and consequences has taught me that
___________________________________________________________ I realize now that my offense hurt (who)___________________ ___________________________________________________________ and I regret (what) _______________________________________ ___________________________________________________________
Sincerely,
______________________
After being informed of my rights and the requirements of this program, I hereby refuse the services of this court, and ask that my case be referred back to the referring agency. I understand that by this act my case enters into the judicial system and may result in a court hearing.
DATE: ___________________________ ________________________ Signature of Juvenile __________________________ Signature of Parent or Guardian __________________________ Referring Officer __________________________ Teen Court Coordinator/Staff
FROM: Teen Court Coordinator DATE: _________________ TO:__________________________ RE:__________________________
___________________________________ is being referred back to your office for further legal action because ________________________________________
___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ _____________________ Teen Court Coordinator
Referral Back to the Juvenile Bureau
DATE: ____________________________________ DATE OF OFFENSE: ________________________ DOCKET NUMBER: _________________________ OFFENSE: _________________________________________________
NAME OF DEFENDANT: _____________________________________ ADDRESS: _________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________
HAS COMPLETED AND COMPLIED WITH THE TEEN COURT PROGRAM. DISMISSAL OF CHARGES ARE RECOMMENDED.
_____________________________ TEEN COURT COORDINATOR
IN THE MATTER OF: Case No. ORDER OF DISMISSAL
On the________ day of _________________, 19 __, the District Court of Knox County has received and examined a report from the Coordinator of Teen Court, which states that _________________________________________________________ has successfully completed the sentences which were levied on him or her by a Teen Court Jury on ___________________________________ , case no. ____________
HERETOFORE certain records and materials have accumulated pertaining to the offense committed by the said juvenile in this case by the following criminal justice agencies, as marked.
_________ (City or Town) ___________________ Police Department _________ Knox County Sheriff's Office _________ Knox County District Attorney's Office _________ Knox County Juvenile Bureau _________ District ______________ School District _________ (City or Town) _____________________ Ordnance Violation _________ Other_______________________________
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT all public records relating to the juvenile's arrest and case are hereby ordered sealed except for basic identification information. No person shall have access to such records except by order of this court. The actions of the juvenile giving rise to this case shall be deemed never to have occurred and that no such records exist with respect to said juvenile.
Sealed material, which is recorded in the same document as unsealed material may be recorded in a separate document and sealed, then obliterated in the original document. It is further ordered that the Knox County Juvenile Bureau may keep a record of the fact that the juvenile has appeared before Teen Court as a defendant, should subsequent charges be filed.
____________________ ______________________ Teen Court Coordinator Referring Agency
advocate
1) To speak in favor of; 2) One who supports or defends a cause; 3) One who pleads in another one's behalf.
ambiguous
1) Liable to more than one interpretation; 2) Uncertain or indefinite.
compound
1) To combine so as to form a whole; 2) A combination of 2 or more elements or parts.
confidential
1) Communicated or effected secretly; 2) Entrusted with the confidence of another.
contradictory
1) To express or assert the opposite of (a statement); 2) To deny the statement of; 3) To be inconsistent with. To utter a contradictory statement.
court
1) The building, hall or room in which cases are heard and decided; 2) The regular session of a judicial assembly.
cumulative
Enlarging or increasing by successive addition.
defendant
One against whom an action is brought
defense
1) Something that defends or protects; 2) An argument in support or justification; 3) The action of the defendant in opposition to complaints against him or her.
deliberation
1) Formal discussion and debate of all sides of an issue; 2) Thoughtfulness in action or decision; 3) Careful and thorough in deciding or determining.
demeanor
The way in which one behaves or conducts himself.
distortion
A factual misrepresentation.
evidence
1) The data on which a conclusion or judgment may be based; 2) The documentary or verbal statements and material objects admissible as testimony in a court of law.
hypothetical
1) To suppose; 2) An explanation accounting for a set of facts that can be tested by further investigation THEORY; 3) Something considered to be true for the purpose of an investigation or argument: ASSUMPTION; 4) Of, relating to, or based on a hypothesis; 5) Contingent; conditional.
impeach
To challenge or discredit.
imply
1) To involve or suggest by logical necessity; 2) To say or express indirectly.
inadmissible
Not admissible; OBJECTIONABLE
irrelevant
Having no applications or effects in a specified circumstance.
judge
1) A public official authorized to hear and decide cases brought before a court of law; 2) To act or decide as a judge.
offense
1) A violation of law: CRIME; 2) A breach of a social or moral code: SIN.
omission
1) An act or instance of omitting; 2) Something left out or neglected.
overruled
A court's denial of a motion or point raised to the Court such as in overruling an objection.
prosecute
1) To initiate legal or criminal court action against; 2) To seek to enforce or obtain by legal action; 3) to initiate and conduct legal proceedings; 4) To act as prosecutor.
refuse
1) To prove to be false or mistaken: DISPROVE; 2) To deny the accuracy or truth of
sentence
1) A judicial decision; 2) The penalty imposed; 3) An opinion, especially a formal one made after deliberation.
speculation
1) The act of speculating; 2) Profound contemplation; 3) An opinion, theory, or conclusion reached by speculating.
summation
A concluding statement containing a summary of principal points, especially of a case before a court of law.
sustained
To support; to approve; to adequately maintain (e.g. the judge sustained the objection because he found it to be true).
testimony
1) A declaration or affirmation of truth or fact, as that given before a court; 2) Evidence in support of a fact or assertion: PROOF; 3) Collective written and spoken testimony offered in a legal case.
unintelligible
Unable to understand.
NAME: ______________________________________ PHONE: ______________ ADDRESS: ___________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ Date Date Jury Training: _________________ Clerk Training: _____________________ Bailiff Training: ________________
Date Jury Bailiff Clerk 4 DUTY SESSIONS MUST BE COMPLETED ___ ___ ___ ___ BEFORE PARTICIPANT MAY MOVE ON TO ___ ___ ___ ___ PHASE 2. ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
1. ________________ met with Defense Attorney 2. ________________ met with Prosecuting Attorney
Each participant must meet with prosecuting and defense attorneys since they will be serving in both defense and prosecuting roles.
1. ________________ case number one STUDENT PROSECUTING ATTORNEY 2. ________________ case number two STUDENT DEFENSE ATTORNEY
All participants must be assigned a student trainer who will include the trainee in ALL phases of the court cases--including preparation.
OTHER - Students should be encouraged to sit in on regular court and to gain other experience and information if they can. Whatever they are able to do above and beyond the above requirements will be helpful to their experience.
You are hereby notified to appear before the Teen Court of Knox County at the Knox County Courthouse in the City of Galesburg, Knox County, Illinois at _________________ PM on ______________________,1996 to serve on Teen Court as a: ___ bailiff ___ clerk ____defense attorney ___prosecuting attorney
You may be serving on several trials. You should be finished by approximately __ PM. Please Call the Teen Court Office at 345-3800 to notify us that you can or cannot attend.
When serving as a member of Teen Court, you will need to dress appropriately. You should dress as if you were going to a special event. Jean shorts, bib overalls and backless or bare midriff outfits are not acceptable. Remember, you are a representative of Teen Court while serving at trials. Please dress and act accordingly.
Please enter the courthouse through the east entrance (Cherry Street) as the other doors will be locked at 5 PM.
If you have any other questions, please contact Teen Court Office.
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Please bring this summons with you to Teen Court. Please sign the space below indicating that you have read and agree to the confidentiality oath. Please give this summons and signed form to the staff at the check-in desk.
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I solemnly swear or affirm that I will not divulge, either by words or signs, any information about actual cases which comes to my knowledge in the course of a Teen Court presentation, and that I will keep secret all said proceedings which may be held in my presence.
Further, I understand that if I break confidentiality by telling anyone else the names of Teen Court defendants or any other specific details of the case which may identify that juvenile, I will no longer be able to serve as a Teen Court participant.
________________________________
I solemnly swear that I will not divulge, either by words or actions, any information which comes to my knowledge in the course of a Knox County Teen Court case presentation, and that I will keep secret all said proceedings which may be held in my presence.
Further, I understand that if I break confidentiality by telling anyone else the names of Teen Court defendants or any other specific details of the case which may identify that juvenile, I will no longer be able to serve as a Teen Court participant.
DATE: ____________________ CASE DOCKET NUMBER: _____________
Teen Court Volunteer/Observer Signatures
Names Addresses / Phone # _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________ _______________________ ___________________________
The undersigned understands and agrees that all youth to be referred will have agreed to voluntarily perform community services pursuant to Teen Court. The undersigned agrees to accept such services from such youth as volunteers and to complete any necessary forms relating to such services as requested by the Teen Court Coordinator.
The undersigned understands and agrees as follows: The referred youths are not employees, agents or contractors for the Ralph M. Noble Unit #285 American Legion Auxiliary, Teen Court, the Sheriff or Police Departments, any city or municipality in the County or of the persons for whom community service is to be provided. The youths will be performing the services solely in an individual capacity and none of the above assume any responsibility for the quality of the youth's work.
Approved on this ______ day of_____________, 19____.
____________________ By:_________________________ Entity Receiving Service Title
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The undersigned executed the foregoing instrument for the uses and purposes therein set forth. Witness my hand and seal the date and year above written
______________________________ Teen Court Coordinator or Staff Member
Name: _____________________________________________ Age: ____________ Address: _______________________________________________________________ City: ______________________________________ Zip Code _________________ Date of Birth: ___________________________________________________________ School: __________________________________________ Grade: _________ Grade Point Average: ___________________________________________________ List number of suspensions and give reasons for each suspension _______________ 1. ____________________________________________________________________ 2. ____________________________________________________________________ 3. ____________________________________________________________________ Mother' s Name: ________________________________ Address: _______________ Work #: _______________Home #: __________________ Other #: _____________ Father' s Name: _________________________________Address: ________________ Work #: _______________Home #: __________________Other #: _______________ Have you seen a copy of the police report? ___________________________________ Do you agree with the police report? __________________ If no, give reasons: _________________________________________________________________________ Have you ever received counseling? ________________________________________ Where and what for? ____________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ Were you punished at home? ______________________________________________ What was your punishment? ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ What have you learned and how do you feel about what you have done? _____________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Have the Police questioned you or talked to you about any other incidents? _________________________________________________________________________ What was your involvement? ______________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Do you have brothers or sisters?_____ Ages?_____ Involved in school or church? ______________________________________________________________________
1. Offense: _________________________________ Court Date: _________________ 2. Sentence: ____________Community Service Hours _________Jury Terms _______ Apology: _____________Basic Training: ______________ Other:_______________ 3. Do you feel your sentence was ______Fair _______Too Harsh _____Too Lenient 4. Do you feel that you were well represented? ______ Yes ______ No Please explain: _____________________________________________________________________ 5. Name of Community Service Placement: __________________________________ Position: ____________________________________________________________ 6.Did you learn any new skills during your community service hours?__ Yes__ No Please Explain: ______________________________________________________ 7. Would you recommend this alternative program to your friends? ____Yes ____No 8. Why did you choose the Teen Court Program? (Check all that apply) _______Did not want to pay fine _____Did not want offense on record _______Heard about it from a friend _____Parents made me
1. Were you pleased with the Teen Court Program? ____Yes ___ No Please explain: _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ 2. Should the Teen Court Program Continue? ____Yes ____ No 3. Comments:__________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________
