Young Adult Court
SF Young Adult Court
The last two decades have given rise to a body of research establishing that young adults are fundamentally different from both juveniles and older adults in how they process information and make decisions.
The prefrontal cortex of the brain — responsible for our cognitive processing and impulse control — does not fully develop until the early to mid-20s. At the same time that young adults are going through this critical developmental phase, many find themselves facing adulthood without supportive family, housing, education, employment, and other critical protective factors that can help them navigate this tumultuous period. Our traditional justice system is not designed to address cases involving these individuals, who are qualitatively different in development, skills, and needs from both children and older adults.
Judge Eric Fleming. Photo credit: Abigail Van Neely, Mission Local
Young Adult Court (YAC) in San Francisco
Young Adult Court (YAC) in San Francisco was established in summer 2015 for eligible young adults, ages 18-24. The court strives to align opportunities for accountability and transformation with the unique needs and developmental stage of this age group. The caseload in the first year will serve approximately 60-80 clients. Partner agencies include the Superior Court, Office of the District Attorney, Office of the Public Defender, the Department of Public Health, Adult Probation Department, Department of Children, Youth and their Families, the San Francisco Police Department, and Felton Institute. YAC is the first of its kind nationwide.
The Felton Institute clinical case management team. Photo credit: Elaine Chan, Judicial Council of California
Awards
Judge Bruce Chan was presented with the Aranda Access to Justice Award on December 11, 2025. Co-sponsored by the Judicial Council, the California Lawyers Association, the California Judges Association, and the Commission on Access to Justice, the Aranda Access to Justice Award honors a judge who has demonstrated a long-term commitment to improving access to our courts, and who has significantly improved access for low- and moderate-income Californians. The Aranda Award is named in honor of the late Benjamin Aranda III, who was known for his tireless efforts promoting fairness and access in the courts. Judge Chan founded YAC in 2015 to provide accountability and transformative opportunities based on the neuroscience of the developing brain and the unique needs of young adults ages 18–25. It operates as a collaborative court for transitional-age youth facing felony charges who seek to have their records expunged in exchange for successful participation in and graduation from the program.