About Mercer County Teen Court...
The Mercer County Teen Court is only one of four in West Virginia and is among a growing number of teen courts across the United States. Currently, there are 1037 throughout the nation with more additions everyday.
The officials and citizens of Mercer County had a vision to launch a Youth Justice System that would empower young people to be leaders in their community. The Mercer County Teen Court was designed to provide youth with the necessary tools to demonstrate the power they have, individually and collectively, to influence others and make positive changes in their own lives and in their community.
This vision is continually shared with city, county, and state law enforcement agencies; city, county and state government officials; the Chamber of Commerce; County and District court officials; clubs and agencies with a vested interest in the community and Mercer area school officials. The shared vision and "Army" of Teen Court volunteers will empower young and not-so-young people as we work toward keeping our community safe.
Through the involvement of volunteers and defendants in the MCTC program, youth will dispelled the misconception that adolescents are incapable of being responsible, being accountable for their wrongdoing, making appropriate decisions, or handling any type of independence.
It is hoped that the Mercer County Teen Court will interrupt developing patterns of criminal behavior by promoting feelings of self-esteem, motivation for self-improvement, and development of a healthy attitude toward authority. MCTC challenges youth to perform at their highest level of ability. It places a high priority on educating young people regarding their responsibilities as individuals, family members and citizens.
We invite you to explore the variety of information and resources found on this web site and encourage you to share your own experiences with Teen Court/Youth Court programs. Any feedback is welcome as we continue to learn daily from one another.
If you would like to talk about volunteering or would like to share your expertise, please email us at:
(subject: Teen Court).
A cooperative effort of the Mercer County Drug Free Community Support Program,
Community Connections, Inc. and ChildLaw Services, Inc.
Additional Funds are provided by a
Juvenile Accontability Incentive Block Grant from the
Division of Criminal Justice Services
