Information for:


Seattle University School of Law

Seattle Youth Traffic Court

What is the Seattle Youth Traffic Court?

  • Seattle Youth Traffic Court (SYTC) is the first youth court to be offered in Seattle.
  • SYTC is a diversion process in which youth from Garfield High School will sentence their peers who have received actual traffic tickets in Seattle
  • Youth under 18 without prior traffic violations will be offered the opportunity to be sentenced by the youth court
  • Under restorative justice principles the Garfield High School students will develop creative sentencing
  • Youth completing their sentences will have their tickets dismissed, and no report will be made to the Department of Licensing or insurance

How Does the Seattle Youth Traffic Court Work?

  • Garfield students serve as judge, prosecutor, defense attorney, jury and court staff
  • Using restorative justice principles, the students sentence their peers
  • Dispositions generally include service on future youth court juries
  • The Garfield defense attorney then mentors the defendant to ensure completion of the disposition
  • SU law students develop policies, provide training, help the Garfield students prepare cases, and conduct hearings.

Why Should Law Students Get Involved?

  • Learn extensive legal content about civil procedure and traffic-related laws.
  • Develop leadership skills through program management and youth  mentorship.
  • Get experience collaborating with many different partners including youth, teachers, and judges.
  • Hone legal skills by managing court processes.
  • Develop grant-writing, systems creation and policy making skills.

What Kind of Commitment Do Law Students Need to make to Be Involved?

  • Students must commit to approximately four to six hours per week, with hearings and training to be held at a regular time and day of the week.
  • Hearings occur once monthly on the third or fourth Monday of the month.
  • Trainings occur the first or second Monday of the month.
  • Additionally, the advisory board meets weekly on Thursdays from 5-7 p.m.
  • Food is served at all sessions.

How Do I Apply?

  • Contact Margaret Fischer, Distinguished Practitioner in Residence and manager of Youth Court to apply by emailing her at fisherm2@seattleu.edu.

Who Do I Contact For More Information