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September 2007 is the sixth annual National Youth Court Month, held to focus the Nation's attention on an innovative program in which youth who commit minor offenses are sentenced by their peers. The theme for the 2007 event is "Empowering Youth . . . Experiencing Justice."

Youth courts, also known as teen courts or peer courts, affect the lives of youth in a unique and positive way. The courts hold juvenile offenders accountable for their actions, educate youth about the judicial and legal systems, empower youth to be active in their communities, and encourage positive behavior.

Youth courts typically accept minor offenses such as theft, vandalism, and disorderly conduct. Sentences vary widely and can include community service, restitution, jury duty, essay assignments, and educational workshops.

The Federal Youth Court Program, funded by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and the Office of Safe and Drug Free Schools, currently promotes the activities of some 1,300 youth court programs in 49 States and the District of Columbia. The National Association of Youth Courts (NAYC) serves as a central point of contact for these programs. NAYC manages an information clearinghouse, maintains a Web site, and provides national guidelines, training and technical assistance, and other services.

To learn more about youth courts, visit the NAYC Web site. At the Web site, click on the National Youth Court Month 2007 Action Kit icon for publicity and promotional materials, artwork, suggested activities, and other resources designed to help local youth courts involve community partners in the celebration of National Youth Court Month.

"Prosecutor" Matt Bogdan delivers his opening statement in Youth Court as First Lady Laura Bush and other court attendees listen. Photo provided by White House photographer, Sheelah Craighead.	Children participate in Youth Court proceedings.