Will County Juvenile Justice Council invites educators, law enforcement to attend presentation on Peer Juries

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November 13

JOLIET – Will County State’s Attorney James Glasgow invites law enforcement representatives, educators, township officials and other juvenile justice professionals to a free presentation on establishing Peer Juries for juvenile offenders.

The free presentation is scheduled for 2 p.m. Nov. 18 in the 4th Floor Probation Training Room at the Will County Court Annex, 57 N. Ottawa St., Joliet. 

The session is hosted by the Will County Juvenile Justice Council. State’s Attorney Glasgow is the chairman of the council.

Downers Grove Township Director of Human Services Lori Wrzesinski will present information on how to develop and implement a peer jury program and discuss the benefits of this highly beneficial diversion program for juvenile offenders.

Peer Juries, which are often referred to as Teen Courts, are designed to deal with select juvenile offenders without referring them to Juvenile Court. Cases referred to a Teen Court are heard by a jury of other juveniles. The jury assigns appropriate consequences, which can include community service.

The program offers a simpler and more effective alternative for juvenile officers to deal with cases as well as a method for reducing recidivism rates among juvenile offenders. Teen Courts also involve young jurors in a positive experience that encourages them to have a meaningful impact in their communities.

To register for this free training, call the Director of Crime Prevention Programs for the Will County State’s Attorney’s Office, at (815) 727-8742 by Monday, Nov. 17.