Partnership for Youth Justice

The Partnership for Youth Justice (PYJ), established by Washington state law as part of the diversion system in 1978, operates under the authority of King County Superior Court. The mission of the PYJ Program is to provide an alternative to the formal court system for youth alleged to have committed certain classifications of criminal offenses. These youth have been determined to be eligible for diversion by the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney. Traditionally, they have appeared before the Community Accountability Boards (CABS), which interview and assign dispositions within administrative and statutory guidelines. These nine CABS serve communities within the county. The selection of CAB members begins with nominations of concerned, dedicated citizens, and community providers. Each prospective volunteer is carefully screened, oriented and trained by staff before serving on a CAB.

The key role of the CAB as a community is to balance the needs of victims, communities, and at-risk youth. The goal is to restore each of the parties fully as possible, from the effects of the alleged crime, while also building skill development and addressing risk factors. This approach is rooted in restorative practices, healing interventions, collaboration, and Community Engagement. CABs can and do have enormous positive impact on young people and their families. They provide an excellent and effective form of early intervention that helps to uplift and support young people in their community.