When can I have a beer?
You must be twenty-one in most states to buy or drink beer, wine, or any alcoholic beverage. If you break
Judge Tom
Judge Tom is the founder and moderator of AsktheJudge.info. He is a retired juvenile judge and spent 23 years on the bench. He has written several books for lawyers and judges as well as teens and parents including 'Teen Cyberbullying Investigated' (Free Spirit Publishing) and 'Every Vote Matters: the Power of Your Voice, from Student Elections to the Supreme Court' (Free Spirit Publishing). In 2020, the American Bar Association published "Cyberbullying Law," the nation's first case-law book written for lawyers, judges and law students. When he's not answering teens' questions, Judge Tom volunteers with the American Red Cross and can be found hiking, traveling and reading.
How old do I have to be to smoke?
Tobacco—whether in the form of cigarettes, snuff or smokeless (chewing) tobacco—is a subject of great concern to adults and teens. Several
When can I get a tattoo?
You′ve probably had many conversations (or battles) with your parents about your choice of hairstyle and color, earrings, and style
What if I′m depressed or thinking about suicide?
Everyone, regardless of age or circumstances, occasionally gets depressed or stressed out. Sadness, loneliness, or feelings of alienation from family
Do I lose any rights if I′m pregnant?
Not long ago, the answer to this question was a definite “yes.” In the 1970s, you could have been asked
What is date rape, and what can I do to protect myself?
“Was it rape?” “I told him no, but he wouldn′t stop!” “I had a few drinks and let my guard
Can you get an abortion without telling your parents?
In 1973, Justice Harry Blackmun wrote the majority opinion for the U.S. Supreme Court in Roe v. Wade,* a landmark decision in
Can you get birth control without your parents knowing?
If you choose to be sexually active, it′s important to know your rights regarding birth control. Strictly speaking, yes, you
What can I do if I′m being abused or neglected?
The abuse and neglect of children in the United States is epidemic. Approximately 3 million reports of child abuse and
Can I donate my blood and organs?
Generally, you can′t give blood until you′re eighteen. Once you′re an adult, the decision is yours. A few states allow