Behavior that at one time was considered fun and mischievous— or just part of growing up—is now reason for you and your parents to appear in court. An overnight with a friend that turns into several days may be viewed as a runaway act, a night out on the town may land you a curfew violation, and senior “ditch day” is considered truancy. These are examples of status offenses, and they can only be committed by someone under eighteen.
Your parents are required to provide for your care and upbringing. You, in turn, are required to obey them and follow their rules. The law gives parents a lot of freedom in raising families. It′s not unlimited, however. If the rules of the house are reasonable under the law—even if they don′t seem reasonable to you—they must be followed. If the rules place you in danger of being neglected or abused, however, you need to report what′s going on and get help for yourself and your brothers and sisters.
Parents who′ve tried punishments (such as grounding or loss of privileges) and have failed to improve their child′s behavior can file an incorrigibility charge against their child. A judge will then decide what to do, from putting the child on probation to ordering counseling or locking the child up for a period of time.
Disorderly conduct is another act that′s against the law. It′s sometimes called disturbing the peace, and it happens when you act in a way that upsets someone else. Examples include fighting, making loud noise, cursing, disruptive behavior in public, or refusing to obey an order from a police officer, firefighter, or school official. It′s also possible to disturb the peace at home. If you′re disruptive and your parents′ peace is upset, you may end up in court.
Approximately one million children run away from home each year. Another 300,000 children are homeless, living on the streets with no supervision, nurturance, or regular assistance from a parent or responsible adult. Many more youth are homeless along with their families. If you or a friend needs help or someone to talk to in a difficult situation, call the operator or 911 for immediate assistance, or call a hotline for counseling or referrals in your community.
