Volunteer with Superior Court

Superior Court welcomes volunteers in the following program areas:

• Partnership for Youth Justice (Juvenile Diversion)

Partnership for Youth Justice (Juvenile Diversion)

The Partnership for Youth Justice program of King County Superior Court is a community response to a community problem.  Concerned citizens just like you are reaching out within their neighborhoods to assist youth offenders and their families, and they are making a difference.  Visit the Partnership for Youth Justice webpage for program and contact information.

Why Do Neighborhood Youth Need Your Help?

Each year thousands of boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 17 have a brush with the law.  Typical offenses include shoplifting, vehicle prowling, fighting, or possession of drugs or alcohol.  These youth often lack the skills and insight needed to steer clear of trouble.  Most need to be reminded that each person is responsible for his or her own acts.

What Would You Do as a Volunteer?

Volunteers from your local community, with the help of a trained court advisor, make up a Community Accountability Board (CAB).  The CAB interviews the offending youth and his or her parents, then determines a constructive accountability plan.  The plan, written in the form of a legally binding contract, may require community service, skill building classes, counseling, restitution, or a fine.  Youth sign the contract, pledging to fulfill its terms, and a program monitor follows up to make sure the accountability plan is successfully completed.  The main goal of the CAB is to help young offenders reestablish a sense of community values and a sense of personal responsibility for their actions.

The youth is asked:

• Who was harmed by your offense?
• What was the harm that was done?
• What do you need to do to "make it right"?

Benefits of the Program

• A Conference... rather than a hearing
• A Contract... rather than a sentence
• A Community... rather than a judge

It Works!

• Intervention is provided early, when it counts!
• 95% complete their diversion requirements successfully
• Family confidentiality is maintained
• Local communities hold their own youth accountable
• Court congestion is reduced by approximately 3,000 cases per year
• Taxpayers save over $2 million per year

If you have an evening a month to invest in your neighborhood youth, please call 206-296-1131 or email PYJ.group@kingcounty.gov.

Learn more about Juvenile Diversion on King County TV.