Young Adult Court

The last two decades have given rise to a body of research establishing that young adults are fundamentally different from both juveniles and older adults in how they process information and make decisions.  The prefrontal cortex of the brain — responsible for our cognitive processing and impulse control — does not fully develop until the early to mid-20s.  At the same time that young adults are going through this critical developmental phase, many find themselves facing adulthood without supportive family, housing, education, employment and other critical protective factors that can help them navigate this tumultuous period.  Our traditional justice system is not designed to address cases involving these individuals, who are qualitatively different in development, skills, and needs from both children and older adults.

 

Young Adult Court (YAC) in San Francisco was established in summer 2015 for eligible young adults, ages 18-25.  The court strives to align opportunities for accountability and transformation with the unique needs and developmental stage of this age group.  The case load in the first year will serve approximately 60-80 clients.  Partner agencies include the Superior Court, Office of the District Attorney, Office of the Public Defender, the Department of Public Health, Adult Probation Department, Department of Children, Youth and their Families, the San Francisco Police Department and Family Service Agency/Felton.  YAC is the first of its kind nationwide.