This diversion program is designed to help a young person avoid a criminal record.
We also provide supportive case management and education to ensure the youth does not continue down a path of recidivism.
Neighborhood Conference Committee is a voluntary program that utilizes a Restorative Justice model.
Important to Know
Eligibility
We work with juvenile Travis County residents, ages 10-16, with a first-time misdemeanor offense.
Timeline
The process from referral to completion takes between 90 to 180 days.
Cost
It is free to participate in the Neighborhood Conference Committee program.
How to Participate
Receive your referral
You, the juvenile, will receive a referral to this program from the Juvenile or Municipal Court handing your first-time misdemeanor offense.
Complete an intake session
After your referral, we will assign a case worker to you.
They will reach out by phone to schedule an intake session.
Attend the Conference
Your case manager will set up session called the Conference.
During the Conference, you, your family, volunteers, and the program representative establish a voluntary contract among you and your community.
Follow the contract
Your contracts may include different tasks depending on your needs, such as:
- Attend Neighborhood Conference Committee classes such as Juvenile Anger
- Management or Character Counts
- Complete Community Services restitution hours
- Journaling
- Book reports
- Complete an agreement of regular school attendance
You will be required to check in weekly or more often depending on the contract.
Receive your certification & charge dismissal
After you complete all sessions, you will earn a Certificate of Attendance.
After completion, your misdemeanor offense charges will be dismissed and you will avoid a criminal record.
This prevents the charges from impacting your future employment and study prospects.
Questions?
If you have any questions, please reach out to the Neighborhood Conference Committee at (512) 854-4580.
Related Resources
Health & Human Services
We provide accessible, person-centered services with respect and care.