First Circuit Solicitor's Office

What is Community Juvenile Arbitration?^{Return to top}

Juvenile arbitration is a juvenile diversion program designed to divert first time, non-violent/non-status offenders out of the Family Court system and into an informal arbitration setting that is operated by trained community volunteers.

Goals of Community Juvenile Arbitration ^{Return to top}
- Offender Accountability
- Victim Reparation
- Community Reparation
- Reduce Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) Caseload of first time, non-violent offenders
- Lower recidivism (repeat offender) rates in the First Judicial Circuit
- Increase Community Involvement and Pride

How does it work ^{Return to top}
- An arbitration hearing is held by a trained volunteer and includes the juvenile, his/her parents, the victim and the arresting officer.
- The Arbitrator monitors the progress of the juvenile to see that all sanctions are completed.
- Once completed, the case is closed with no juvenile record being established.  If the juvenile fails to complete, the case is sent back to DJJ for formal court actions.
- Using the input of all parties involved, the arbitrator determines and imposes the appropriate sanctions which can include restitution, donations, letters of apology to the victim, curfews, community service work and any other sanctions the arbitrator deems appropriate, within guidelines.

Requirements to Volunteer as a Juvenile Arbitrator ^{Return to top}
- Must be at least 21 years of age. 
- Must possess a High School Diploma or GED.
- Must have no criminal record.
- Must have transportation and valid South Carolina driver's license.
- Must complete the 21-hour arbitrator-training course.