2850 College Drive, Rice Lake, WI 54868

715-736-0940

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE TEEN COURT

VOLUNTEER JOB DESCRIPTION/RULES

You will have the honor of participating in a courtroom proceeding serving as a juror, bailiff, clerk or lawyer for the purpose of assessing fair consequences to a respondent who has pled guilty to an ordinance violation. In order to participate you must:

· Be in grades 9-12

· Observe the Volunteer Release Agreement (must be returned before first volunteer duty).

· Attend the mandatory training sessions.

· Dress for court in professional attire - no hats, shorts, torn clothing, or t-shirts; and no cigarette/alcohol use in the building or on the grounds.

· Behave in a professional manner. No profanity, gum chewing or food/soda allowed in the courtroom. Act in a mature and responsible manner.

· Refrain from negative comments regarding other volunteers or participants. Do not discuss your personal opinion of the charge or of the outcome of the case with parents/defendants other than to wish them luck. Appropriate conversation is expected throughout the court house building.

· Observe the Oath of Confidentiality. Do not discuss a case with anyone outside the Restorative Teen Court Program.

· Be willing to work as part of a team. Be willing to serve in other roles if you do not get the role that you wish. All roles are important and make the program successful.

All volunteers will participate as jurors first. When you are properly trained, and feel comfortable, you may then serve as a bailiff/clerk. You may then volunteer as a lawyer. Changes in positions will be requested, and approved, through Restorative Teen Court staff. You will receive dates and times that you are expected to volunteer by mail/email. If you cannot volunteer on the dates assigned, it is your responsibility to call the Restorative Teen Court office in a timely manner.

Evening sessions are held in Barron, Rice Lake, and Turtle Lake.

Volunteering with the Restorative Teen Court will give you the satisfaction of helping other youth and their families bring an end to a difficult time that has resulted from an offense committed by a juvenile. Some additional benefits are:

1. Community Service Hours: You will be able to fill your school community service requirements.

2. Letters of Recommendation: As long as your involvement has been responsible, letters can be written for college or job applications.

3. Leadership Opportunity: Practice leadership skills with other professionals.

**Volunteers will receive a name badge as you enter the courtroom.