Home>Community Justice Boards
What are Community Justice Boards
The Pima County Attorney's Office is committed to reducing juvenile crime, but we can't do it alone.
Pima County
Attorney Barbara LaWall's vision of partnering with local neighborhoods and
training volunteers to become a strong voice in the justice system became a reality when the first Community
Justice Board was created in May of 1998.
Now located throughout Pima County, Community Justice
Boards (CJBs) operate on the principles of balanced and restorative justice while focusing
primarily on
juvenile accountability and building competencies for our youth and their families.
Volunteer
We ask that each volunteer serve with the program for at least
1 year, and:
- Complete the application and interview process.
- Undergo fingerprinting and a background check.
- Complete the training and orientation process.
- Regularly participate in the Board process.
- Set a positive example for youth and other community members.
How they work
Community Justice Boards are comprised of specially trained volunteers from communities throughout Pima County.
With guidance, training, and support from the County Attorney's Office, these volunteers hold
family conferences
to learn more about the youth, their families, and the circumstances surrounding the offense.
The Board subsequently
assigns age-appropriate and developmentally-appropriate consequences designed to hold youth accountable for their
actions and decisions; build problem-solving, decision-making, and life skills; motivate youth through education; and
promote successful futures. Boards also conduct follow-up conferences to monitor progress, encourage and motivate
participants, and help youth feel more connected to their communities.
Resource Center
For more information regarding the Community Justice Board Program, please contact:
Community Justice Unit
(520) 724-5231
