Although Teen Court is largely youth-run, we do need adult volunteers to help our court nights run smoothly! To apply to be an adult volunteer with Teen Court, you must be 18 years or older (and out of high school) and consent to having a background check run (completed by Teen Court staff).
Quick FAQs
How do I apply?
You can find the adult volunteer application at the very bottom of this page.
Once completed, email the application (PDF/pictures/screenshots) to the Volunteer Coordinator, Liz Wilson at Elizabeth.Wilson1@wake.gov
What do I do when I volunteer?
When you arrive at the Wake County Courthouse (316 Fayetteville Street, Raleigh, NC), enter through the Salisbury Street entrance. Once you’ve gone through the metal detectors, a staff member will assist you to the 9th floor, where you will sign-in at the check-in table.
Teen Court staff will assist you in identifying which court room you have been assigned to. Descriptions of each role are listed below.
Teen Court has three roles available to adult volunteers: Jury Monitor, Exit Interviewer, and Judge.
As a Jury Monitor…
You will help guide jurors through deliberation and ensure they reach a unanimous and appropriate sanction. You are not responsible for choosing the sanctions (those are provided by the case manager), but rather for creating space for discussion, redirecting as needed, and encouraging respectful collaboration.
You will be expected to:
- Track jury attendance and participation
- Collect juror’s phones before the start of each hearing
- Facilitate group discussion and ensure all voices are heard and encourage deliberation that is respectful, thoughtful, and aligned with Teen Court values
As an Exit Interviewer…
You will meet with the referred youth (the client) and their family after their case has been heard. You will review the jury’s decision, answer questions about next steps, and ensure the client understands what is required of them to successfully complete the program.
You will be expected to:
- Review the assigned sanctions clearly and professionally
- Ensure the client and guardian understand deadlines and expectations
- Direct questions or concerns to staff when needed
As a Judge…
You will oversee courtroom proceedings and support youth attorneys in understanding proper procedures. You do not determine the verdict—jurors do—but you ensure the process is followed and provide general courtroom structure and guidance. Judges in Teen Court are licensed attorneys, current or former judges, or law students (2L or above).
You will be expected to:
- Begin each case, administer oaths, rule on objections, and guide the flow of the evening
- Ensure youth attorneys remain respectful, on-topic, and professional
- Offer brief feedback to youth attorneys after each case
Adult Volunteer Application: