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The Harford County Teen Court was implemented in May 2010 and is managed by the Harford County Sheriff’s Office Youth Services Division and the Harford County Office of Drug Prevention. It is a voluntary diversion program that is used to resolve misdemeanor offenses without requiring intervention by the Department of Juvenile Services. Youth who successfully complete the Harford County Teen Court program avoid a juvenile record for their offense.
Cases are referred to Teen Court by local law enforcement agencies, school systems, and the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services. In order to be eligible for the program, youth must be between the ages of 11-17, first time offenders, Harford County residents, and admit their guilt. In addition, every participant is required to have an alcohol/drug assessment and screening.
District Court Judge Susan Hazlett volunteers her time to preside over all of the Teen Court cases. The teen jury consists of Harford County high school students. Adult volunteers act as guides for the teen jury. The jury may mandate that the youth complete community service, serve jury duty, attend educational programs, write an apology letter, compose an essay, or other creative sanctions.
High school volunteers can earn 3 hours of service learning hours each session. If you are interested in becoming an adult or youth volunteer, or would like to find out more information about the Teen Court Program, you may email us at teencourt(at)harfordcountymd(dot)gov.