The issue of whether enabling legislation is needed for the operation of youth court programs is an ongoing debate. However, the number of states attempting to pass some type of enabling legislation related to youth courts has increased over the past few years. Of the 45 states that have youth court programs, 25 states had enacted legislation that specifically addresses youth/teen court in some manner. You will find that some state legislation is fairly detailed and comprehensive in its guidelines for youth/teen courts; whereas, other state legislation related to youth/teen courts tends to be very broad and general.
The following states have statutes related to youth courts: