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Community Court supports people charged with low-level, quality-of-life offenses—such as trespassing or minor shoplifting—by offering a path that focuses on accountability, stability and long-term success.
Instead of traditional penalties, the court connects participants with services that address the issues contributing to their involvement in the justice system. Each participant completes an individualized plan that includes:
- Community service, giving back to the community as a form of accountability.
- Social service support, such as housing assistance, counseling referrals or employment resources.
Participants who successfully complete their plan avoid jail, fines and probation. For most first-time offenders, charges are dismissed when they graduate from the program.
A One-Stop Service Mall
Community organizations and volunteers partner with the court to create a co-located Service Mall—a centralized hub offering easy access to multiple forms of support. The Service Mall is open to all Community Court participants and to anyone in the community who needs assistance, regardless of whether they have a current case.
Available services include:
- Help applying for food stamps, Social Security benefits and other self-sufficiency programs
- Referrals for mental health and addiction counseling
- Job readiness support, including résumé help
- Connections to Job Corps, workforce training and other employment resources
By reducing barriers and offering meaningful support, Community Court helps participants build stability and avoid future involvement in the criminal justice system.
