Judge Teri Thompson: Empowering Youth and Reforming Justice One Step at a Time

Judge Teri Thompson has dedicated over three decades of her career to uplifting marginalized youth and pushing for transformative justice reform. With 32 years of experience in the legal field, she has worked tirelessly to address the systemic biases that impact Black, Brown, and low-income communities, often driving young people into the criminal justice system with limited hope of escaping its grasp. Early in her career, Judge Thompson recognized these injustices and decided to take a stand. Her commitment to at-risk youth goes beyond mere advocacy; she has actively helped shape paths for young people to access educational resources, mental health support, and positive community influences—all elements she believes are key to preventing youth from entering the judicial system.

Judge Thompson’s impact stretches far beyond her courtroom. As the founder of Zella Publishing, she has created a platform that produces literature aimed at provoking thought and fostering justice reform. Her nonprofit, Justice Redefined, furthers her mission through the R.E.C.K.L.E.S.S. program, which equips youth with essential life skills: Responsibility, Empowerment, Character, Knowledge, Leadership, and Entrepreneurial Skills for Success. This program embodies her belief that when given proper guidance and resources, young people can overcome challenges and achieve greatness. Her program, Imagine Me, provides impactful programs for young girls that promote self-confidence and self-worth.

Judge Thompson’s influence is global. She partners with the Oydeji Grammar School in rural Nigeria, providing young girls with inspiring educational resources that help them dream beyond the limitations of their circumstances. Within the United States, she collaborates with institutions like the American Intercontinental University (AIU) in Atlanta, teaching classes and conducting webinars focused on career development and entrepreneurship. Locally, she supports the Children’s Museum of Montgomery in Alabama, working to inspire children’s interest in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) fields. Her website, www.zellapublishing.com, offers resources for individuals and organizations interested in supporting her mission.

Judge Thompson’s passion for community involvement, educational reform, and justice advocacy continues to drive positive change for countless young people. She remains steadfast in her vision to create an equitable justice system that values rehabilitation and prevention, and she invites others to join her in this transformative journey.

Inspiration: What inspired you to focus on helping youth, particularly those at risk of entering the judicial system?

Judge Teri Thompson’s inspiration to champion at-risk youth emerged from her experiences as an attorney, where she saw firsthand the unjust treatment of marginalized communities within the justice system. Early in her career, she observed how Black, Brown, and low-income youth were often treated as disposable and encountered limited opportunities for positive intervention. “It was heartbreaking to see those who lived on the fringes of society be completely discarded in the criminal justice system,” she reflects. Determined to bring about change, Judge Thompson committed herself to using her career to advocate for at-risk youth.

Her decision to pass the Bar over 32 years ago was not just about practicing law; it was about pushing for a fairer, more just society that does not abandon its most vulnerable. She believes that every child deserves a chance to thrive, regardless of their background. Her work, both in and outside the courtroom, is driven by the goal of dismantling the structures that hold young people back. By providing support, guidance, and community engagement, Judge Thompson strives to build a world where youth are empowered to realize their full potential.

Impact of Early Intervention: Can you share some examples of how early intervention has positively impacted the lives of young people in your community?

Judge Thompson is a staunch advocate of early intervention, a strategy she believes is pivotal in altering the course of young lives. She’s seen firsthand how academic support and mental health care can lead to significant improvements in a youth’s outlook and choices. Academic assistance in core areas often keeps students engaged and prevents them from dropping out. "Academic success, even in basic reading, reduces dropout rates and improves future career success," she notes. By focusing on early intervention, she helps teens avoid the pitfalls of the criminal justice system.

Mental health support is another key component. Many young people face challenges that, if left unaddressed, can increase their chances of ending up in the justice system. Early access to counseling and therapy enables them to manage their issues constructively. Judge Thompson’s work as a juvenile court attorney has allowed her to help many young people secure mental health and social services. In every case, the earlier the intervention, the greater the chance for success. Her commitment to early support reflects her belief that given the right resources, young people can navigate challenges and create meaningful lives.

Children’s Book: You’re an author of a children’s book. What message do you hope to convey to young readers through your writing?

Through her children’s book, Judge Thompson encourages young readers to embrace self-love and self-respect. "Self-love and self-respect equip you with resilience to navigate through life’s ups and downs," she explains. By teaching these values early, she hopes to empower children to steer clear of harmful choices and develop a strong sense of self-worth.

Judge Thompson’s products, which include coloring books and journals filled with daily affirmations, are designed to benefit not only children but also their parents. The messages within her products are reminders for adults and children alike, underscoring the importance of self-worth and resilience. She believes that by fostering these values early, children will grow up to lead lives of purpose and positivity, while adults are reminded of the importance of nurturing self-love within their families. Her goal is to create resources that strengthen both children and their families, helping them build a foundation of respect and self-confidence.

Community Involvement: How important is community involvement in your efforts to keep youth out of the judicial system?

Judge Thompson emphasizes that community involvement is a cornerstone of her mission to keep youth out of the judicial system. She believes that a sense of community fosters belonging, which is essential for young people’s development. "Every child wants to belong," she explains. A supportive community provides young people with role models and mentors who offer guidance and accountability, which can have a profound impact on their choices and life path.

Through her website, www.letssaveouryouth.com, Judge Thompson provides resources on mentorship and encourages community members to become positive role models for at-risk youth. By connecting youth with mentors, she hopes to create bonds that promote growth and resilience. For Judge Thompson, community involvement isn’t just a support system; it’s the fertile ground where young people can flourish, find direction, and ultimately avoid the pitfalls of the criminal justice system.

Contact Information

For more information on Judge Teri Thompson’s work or to explore potential partnerships, you can connect with her through the following:

• Website: www.letssaveouryouth.com
• Instagram:@terileethompson
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/terithompsonllc
• Email:teri@zellapublishing.com