The Senior Court seeks solutions to preserve the dignity and legal rights of those 60 years of age and older while considering the needs and safety of the entire community.

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WHAT IS THE SENIOR COURT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM?

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The Trumbull County Senior Court Assistance Program is a voluntary assistance program which seeks to provide solutions to legal issues faced by those 60 years of age and older.  Eligible participants are seniors who have been charged primarily with non-violent misdemeanors or civil actions.  The Senior Court Assistance Program provides a multidisciplinary approach and strives to connect seniors with the services, programs, and benefits available in Trumbull County. Participation in the Senior Court Assistance Program does not guarantee a reduction or dismissal of any charges.  This decision is within the sole discretion of the referring court. 

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CASE REFERRAL CATEGORIES

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Including, but not limited to:

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• Traffic Offenses

• Under the Influence

• Petty Theft

• Community Disturbances

  • Neighbor Disputes

  • Disorderly Conduct

  • Aggravated Menacing

  • Disturbing the Peace

• Landlord/Tenant and Home Owner Citations from Board of Health, Zoning, etc.

• Civil Actions

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Referrals must be pre-screened and be in conformance with the criteria set by the Senior Court Assistance Program.

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SENIOR COURT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

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• To increase the use of community resources to positively impact the senior's behavior and quality of life.

• To decease the number of sanctions imposed by the courts by developing solutions through individualized case plans.

• To focus on the issues that may have led to the commission of the crime to help prevent recidivism.

• To engage persons in treatment and rehabilitation services that stabilize and improve problem-solving capacities.

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APPLICATION PROCEDURE

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Upon entering the criminal justice system, Trumbull County residents age 60 and older may ask the presiding judge or court staff to refer their case to the Senior Court Assistance Program.  If the judge and prosecutor deem the matter appropriate, the senior will be directed to contact the program within three court days to schedule a screening and assessment.  Non-court referrals may also be made to the program by an attorney, service provider, or others by contacting the court at (330) 675-2521.   If the senior is found to be eligible, an individualized case plan will be created.  

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WHAT IS A CASE PLAN?

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Each Senior Court Assistance Program case plan is created with the needs of the individual in mind.  The Senior Court Assistance Program takes a holistic approach by considering all the issues faced by the senior. Case plans may include: counseling, rehabilitation, educational programs, drug or alcohol screenings, and agency referrals.  Case plans vary in length, and the time needed to complete the program is determined on a case-by-case basis. 

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PARTICIPATING COURTS

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Girard Municipal Court

Judge Jeffrey D. Adler

 

Newton Falls Municipal Court

Judge Philip M. Vigorito

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Niles Municipal Court

Judge Christopher J. Shaker

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Trumbull County Court - Eastern District

Judge Marty D. Nosich

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Trumbull County Court - Central District

Judge Thomas A. Campbell

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Warren Municipal Court

Judge Thomas P. Gysegem

Judge Terry F. Ivanchak

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SUPPORTED BY THE TRUMBULL COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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