Each year, millions of teens are cited for various offenses, ranging from traffic violations to criminal trespassing. Regardless of the offense, the majority of these young people arrive in court for the first time, usually unfamiliar with the judicial process and unprepared to stand before a judge.

In this no-holds-barred guide, Leora Krygier, a judge for almost 20 years, provides teens with important information about how to prepare for a court appearance. Krygier addresses the most common types of offenses committed by young people and helps decipher their citations. This instructive guide gives teens and their parents an overview of the juvenile court justice system, then takes the reader through the entire process—from the moment a citation is written, to arraignment, possible trial, and disposition of their case.

Drawing on examples, stories, and excerpts from actual letters and essays written by teens, Juvenile Court: A Judge's Guide for Young Adults and Their Parents de-mystifies the judicial process and help teens get back on the right track. The book also offers no-nonsense tips aimed to help teens avoid future citations.