HB 2042 - DIGEST

     Declares that youth courts provide a diversion for cases involving juvenile offenders, in which participants, under the supervision of an adult coordinator, may serve in various capacities within the program, acting in the role of jurors, lawyers, bailiffs, clerks, and judges.  Youths who appear before youth courts are youths eligible for diversion pursuant to RCW 13.40.070 (6) and (7).  Youth courts have no jurisdiction except as provided for in this act.  Youth courts are diversion units and not courts established under Article IV of the state Constitution.

     Directs the office of the administrator for the courts to encourage the juvenile courts to work with cities and counties to implement, expand, or use youth court programs for juveniles who commit diversion-eligible offenses, civil, or traffic infractions.