Joining Kodiak Teen Court

To join Kodiak Teen Court, students must pass the BAR Examination following participation in our law class, which is held from November through January annually.

For those interested, keep an eye on our FaceBook Page for updates on the law class. Sign-ups typically begin in October, and interested students can sign up at their local school office or call us at (907)-486-3550 and leave a message.

What is Kodiak Teen Court?

Kodiak Teen Court is a state-approved program in which youth serve as judges, prosecuting attorneys, and defense attorneys (as well as court bailiffs, court clerks and jurors) in real criminal cases involving youth under the age of 18. These programs are also called “Youth Courts” or “Community Diversion” courts. To become a Kodiak Teen Court attorney, you most be between the 8th and 12th grade, complete the Kodiak Teen Court law class, take the Bar Examination, and complete related exercises. Once complete, attorneys are sworn into the Bar Association by the current Supreme Court judge or Magistrate. 

Kodiak Teen Court accepts cases that are referred from the Alaska State court system, the Alaska Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), and the Kodiak Island Borough School District. These cases typically involve minors who have committed misdemeanor offenses or offenses involving alcohol such as an MIP (Minor in Possession of Alcohol), but can also include other status offenses. The offenders, known as “Clients” have voluntarily chosen to have their case handled by Kodiak Teen Court. These proceedings are closed to the public to protect the confidentiality of the juvenile involved. Clients must be 18 or under at the time of the offense to be eligible for Kodiak Teen Court.

When you are sworn in as a member of the Kodiak Teen Court Bar Association, you will enjoy the challenge and excitement of handing “live” cases involving real people and real crimes. Whether you choose to prosecute, defend, or even pursue becoming a Kodiak Teen Court judge, you will gain many valuable skills you can use throughout your life. You will also serve your community by providing valuable work service and being a positive example for your peers.