Eligibility for participation in Teen Court is based on an appropriate referral is a first-time offender who meets all of the following requirements:
- Is between the ages of 14 and 18, and attends high school full time in New Hanover County
- Commits a qualifying misdemeanor, such as disorderly conduct or communicating threats
- Voluntarily admits guilt and accepts the Teen Court alternative
- Has a parent or guardian who agrees to support their child's participation in the program