Juveniles and Teen Court

The Municipal Court has jurisdiction over juveniles (persons age 10 to 16) charged with Class C Misdemeanor offenses. Juveniles must appear in open court with a parent or legal guardian present for all proceedings in their cases.  Identification is required for both the young person and the parent or legal guardian.

Young persons also have a duty to keep their address up to date and on file until their case is completed with the court.  All changes of address must be in writing and must include the name, case number, new address, phone number, and email. Failure to do this may result in a hold being placed upon the driver’s license along with a possible hold on the ability to renew the registration of the vehicle, if the ticket involved a vehicle.

Teen Court is for both Juveniles and other students who are enrolled in high school or the equivalent. For both groups, Teen Court can result in a dismissal of the offense from the person’s record.

What to Expect at Your Hearing

 If you have never been summoned or brought to court before, all the requirements and instructions can be confusing. The following information is provided so that you may know what to expect.  Every case is a little different so there could be a few differences.  If you have questions, you may call 254-298-5687 and ask to speak to the Juvenile Case Manager.

First Step: Check in with the Clerk

The clerk in the lobby take your name and mark you present.  You may be asked to provide identification.  If you are under 17, you will need a parent or legal guardian with you and they must also be ready to show identification.

Second Step: Stand and Recognize the Judge

The Judge will explain why you are in court and the process. Listen carefully.  

Third Step: The Judge Will Bring You Forward

The Judge will bring you forward and may also bring your guardian or parent forward.  You may be required to fill out paperwork.  The Judge will also ask for your plea and will review your options with you.

Fourth Step: Meet with the Juvenile Case Manager

This step may be optional, depending on the case details.  If this meeting takes place, the Juvenile Case Manager may perform an intake assessment and make a recommendation to the Judge.  The Juvenile Case Manager will also listen to you and in some cases, may talk to your parent or guardian.  The Juvenile Case Manager will also answer any questions you may have about your case. 

This is a program for young people who are enrolled in high school or the equivalent.  Successful completion of a Teen Court program keeps the item off the person’s record while addressing the underlying reason that the person was brought to court.  Teen Court is a successful way for a young person to learn to not re-offend, while keeping a clear record. 

To Qualify

A young person who is enrolled in high school or the equivalent is qualified for Teen Court if the offense is a first offense.  In some cases, second offenses may also be qualified.  The young person must ask for Teen Court.

 To Request this Option

If you are under the age of 17 you must come to court with a parent or guardian and make a request for Teen Court. 

If you are 17 or older, you may be able to make a written request for Teen Court or appear online.

To Successfully Complete This Option

The Temple Teen Court provides for a variety of Teen Court methods, including live Teen Court Trials and sentencing recommendations from the Juvenile Case Manager (JCM).  Once your case is reviewed and a recommendation made from the JCM, an agreed order will be made.  You will have the duty to complete the agreed items from the order.  Failure to do so will result in further court proceedings and a possible conviction entered on your record with a hold placed on your license until you complete your case.

As you go through the process of getting a court order for Teen Court, please listen carefully, ask questions, and make sure you understand what you are being asked to do to gain your dismissal.  In some cases, you will be required to attend a hearing, turn in a class certificate, or prove that you performed community service.  It will be your responsibility to complete and honor your promises in order to keep the dismissal option available.

Teen Court has proven to be very successful and it can help you save money and keep your record clear.  However, you must do your part and complete the agreement you make with the Judge, in order to obtain a dismissal. 

 Please be aware of the Court Dress Code.

Directions to the Temple Municipal Court.