Empowering teens for
a brighter future.
An innovative approach to restorative justice and hands-on learning.
The Guadalupe Teen Court operates a peer, youth court restorative justice model where the teen volunteer members take on the roles of judge/foreperson, attorney, victim advocate, bailiff, and jurors to hear the testimony of teen defendants and decide consequences.
Teen court offers youth defendants an alternative to the traditional juvenile court and prosecution process, which in turn supports positive outcomes for the victim, community and defendant. Learn more about our approach and mission here.
In 2016, The National Association of Counties (NACo) Awarded Guadalupe Teen Court for their innovative work in judiciary.
They were recognized as the only teen court that was held in a library setting with a judge as director.
Get Involved
We graciously welcome volunteer speakers at our meetings, field trip suggestions, community projects and donations to support our nonprofit 501(c)(3) program. For opportunities, please inquire below.
Meet the Members
This program is not affiliated with a specific school or school district, therefore, teen members attend a variety of schools in Tempe, Chandler, and the Ahwatukee/Foothills areas of Phoenix, and can reside in any local municipality. To meet the current members or for information on joining, click below!
Learn More
The Guadalupe Teen Court Program was founded in 2015 by former presiding judge of the Guadalupe Municipal Court, Hon. Lilia Alvarez. In 2016, the National Association of Counties (NACo) recognized this program for innovation and leadership in the judiciary.
“Society as a whole benefits immeasurably from a climate in which all persons, regardless of race or gender, may have the opportunity to earn respect, responsibility, advancement, and remuneration based on ability.”
— Sandra Day O'Connor
