VOICED: Giving America's teens a fair trial

The McCullum Youth Court in Oakland is a program for first-time youth offenders, aiming to divert them from the juvenile justice system using restorative justice. The program involves peer trials where youth offenders serve as jurors, providing sentences like community service. It is cost-effective, significantly cheaper than traditional juvenile systems, and has a low recidivism rate. Many participants pursue careers in law and social work. The program is expanding to nearby cities, offering a positive alternative to the justice system.

What is the primary goal of the McCullum Youth Court program?

• To increase the number of youth in the justice system

• To provide free legal education

• To divert teens from the juvenile justice system

• To punish youth offenders severely

How does the McCullum Youth Court program differ from the traditional juvenile justice system?

• It is more expensive

• It uses adult jurors

• It focuses on restorative justice

• It has a higher re-offense rate

What is a typical component of the sentence given by the youth jury in the McCullum Youth Court?

• Life imprisonment

• Community service

• Monetary fines

• House arrest

What is one of the outcomes for participants of the McCullum Youth Court program?

• Increased likelihood of re-offending

• Pursuing careers in law and social work

• Longer probation periods

• Higher education costs

How has the McCullum Youth Court program expanded its reach?

• By serving other nearby cities

• By reducing the number of jurors

• By increasing the age limit for participants

• By increasing the number of offenses it handles