Frequently Asked Questions

Kodiak Teen Court hears cases that involve misdemeanor charges, status offenses, or rule violations. These cases are referred either from the Alaska Division of Juvenile Justice, the Kodiak District Court, or the Kodiak Island Borough School District. 

Kodiak Teen Court sentencing can include, but are not limited to;

- Attending an adult court hearing pertinent to their offense.

- Attend Alcohol, Drug, or Vaping/Tobacco classes or counseling.

- Community work service up to 45 hours.

- Write an essay about their experience in the case or an issue relevant to their charge.

- Pay restitution to the victim.

- Write a letter or in-person apology to victims or others involved in the case.

- Certification of completion for Competency Development Skills or Safety classes. 

- Attend behavioral development counseling.

Attending Kodiak Teen Court has many substantial benefits for a juvenile client. These benefits include, but are not limited to;

- Balanced and restorative justice practices.

- Being able to be held accountable by their peers.

- Lawful representation by their peers.

- Being able to accept responsibility for their actions, make reparations, and learn new skills     to prevent recidivism. 

- Avoid incurring a criminal record.

- Learn about Juvenile Justice and the law, and what may happen if they break the law in the future.

- Become a contributing member of their community. 

The law classes teaches students about Youth Court jurisdiction, restorative justice, courtroom procedure, evidence, ethics, advocacy, case preparation, public speaking, interviewing, and general law. Students participate in mock trials and other hands-on experiences to learn the skills necessary to provide clients with a fair and just hearing that is held in a formal and ethical manner. 

Once an attorney passes the Bar Exam, they are sworn into the Bar Association, which is the membership organization of all the Kodiak Teen Court youth members. As a Bar Member, attorneys will enjoy the challenge and excitement of handling actual cases involving real people and real crimes or infractions. Whether you choose to prosecute, defend, or even pursue a judge position, you will learn about the legal system, sharpen your reasoning skills, and become more comfortable with public speaking. You will serve your community by providing valuable work service and a positive example for your peers. 

On top of attorneys being able to improve their interpersonal, reasoning, and critical thinking skills, Kodiak Teen Court provides additional benefits to involved attorneys. After successfully completing the law class, the Kodiak Island Borough School District will award the attorney with one-half elective credit through the Kodiak High School. If the attorney completes an additional 90 hours of volunteer service for Kodiak Teen Court, they are eligible to earn an additional one-half elective credit.  In addition, Kodiak Teen Court opens avenues to other volunteer work service on top of volunteering for a non-profit corporation, which is beneficial to have on a resume and college applications. 

Kodiak Teen Court Bar members are able to serve in electoral positions on the Bar Association and for the Board of Directors. These positions allow the youth member to engage in the running of an actual non-profit business, including budgeting, management, and program direction. The members develop leadership, management, and interpersonal skills through these positions. In addition, members are able to participate in fundraising activities, program events and parties, and serve the community through association with a number of other community non-profits.