2021 Reports

A Roadmap to Reform: Key Elements of Specialized Courts for Emerging Adults

Siringil Perker, Selen; Chester, Lael E. H.; Andonian, Juliana

Within the last decade, several jurisdictions have launched specialized courts for system-involved emerging adults (ages 18–25) to address the distinct needs of this developmental group. This report highlights key elements of this important reform initiative as identified by members of the Columbia University Justice Lab’s Emerging Adult Justice Learning Community and draws lessons from the experience of three innovative models: San Francisco Young Adult Court, Brooklyn Young Adult Court, and the Chicago (North Lawndale) Restorative Justice Community Court.

Key elements of specialized courts highlighted in this report focus on five areas: centering youth experience and agency; process and procedural justice; connecting to community and developmentally appropriate services; communicating benefits to youth and community; and other design considerations.