Teen Court

Teen court serves several purposes. Instead of imposing a fine that might be covered by the defendant's parents, it requires the teen to take personal responsibility for their actions. This approach helps deter repeat offenses by making the consequences more immediate and personal, such as additional community service or further court appearances. Additionally, having peers act as jurors and lawyers can have a significant impact on the defendant. Finally, teen court also aims to foster respect for and understanding of the legal system.

If your citation was issued by San Angelo Police Department, you may apply at the San Angelo Municipal Court office at 110 S. Emerick St.  

If eligible, you will be given an application and related forms. This paperwork, along with a $20 non-refundable court fee, must be completed and returned prior to your case being scheduled for a Teen Court docket.   

Teen Court is a legal court held in a regular courtroom. All participants must observe the following: 

• No cell phone use in courtroom  

• No torn or dirty jeans, shorts or rompers 

• No hats or caps 

• No t-shirts, or sheer see-through clothing 

• No tank tops, spaghetti straps, or low cut tops 

• No visible skin mid-thigh to the stomach 

• No gum chewing 

• No sandals, shower shoes or flip flops 

• Shirts must be tucked in 

Teen Court reserves the right to refuse participation for anyone who does not meet these guidelines. Defendants’ cases may be referred back to a regular court. 

Penalties consist of community service hours and jury services. Community service hours are categorized into classes depending on the charge.  

• Class 1: 5-10 hours + 1-2 jury terms.  

• Class 2: 10-20 hours + 1-3 jury terms.  

• Class 3: 20-30 hours + 2-4 jury terms. 

• Class 4: 30-50 hours + 3-5 jury terms.

What is community service for Teen Court? 

In lieu of a fine, a Teen Court defendant must agree to perform Community Service Restitution (CSR) hours as determined by the jury. CSR hours must be performed at a non-profit organization in the San Angelo Area. Approval must be requested prior to performing the hours. Immediately after their penalty has been determined, the defendant will be given a log sheet on which all CSR hours must be recorded.    

What are jury terms?

In addition to community service hours, juries assign mandatory jury terms. One complete night of jury duty is considered one jury term. All jurors must stay for the entire court session.

Defendants have 90 days in which to complete these hours. The original log sheet must be returned to the court after all hours and jury terms are completed. Anyone failing to complete his or her obligation within the prescribed 90 days will be referred back to the originating court for sentencing. This may result in a conviction and payment of the original fine.   

Successful completion of assigned CSR hours and jury terms will result in dismissal of the citation.