The Brooklyn Young Adult Court seeks to provide meaningful alternatives to conventional prosecution for young people, ages 18 to 24, charged with misdemeanors.
Reach
Misdemeanor cases involving young adults that are not resolved at arraignment are sent to the Brooklyn Young Adult Court. The court places special emphasis on young people at high risk of re-offending and those facing more serious criminal consequences.
Specialized Court Staff
The Brooklyn Young Adult Court is presided over by a dedicated judge and is staffed by dedicated prosecutors, defense advocates, and social workers. All court staff have received specialized training on the unique needs of young adults.
Risk and Needs Assessments
A specialized social worker performs an evidence-based risk-need assessment for all participants in order to determine the unique challenges facing each young person, as well as appropriate interventions.
Evidence-Based Interventions
The court mandates participants to a range of evidence-based social service interventions in lieu of incarceration. Interventions are determined by the risk level and particular needs of each defendant. All participants are given access to voluntary referrals and ongoing case management.