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
CategoryYour Rights
Find out everything you need to know about youth rights, juvenile law and juvenile justice. Judge Tom answers teens’ questions about the law.
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
Can I go to the doctor without my parents′ permission?
Most doctors, health care professionals and hospitals require written permission from your parents or legal guardian before seeing you. There
Can I start my own business?
The general answer is yes. Because many employers won′t hire anyone younger than fifteen or sixteen, entrepreneurial teens have found
Can I open my own bank account?
Between expenses for transportation, personal items, and entertainment, you may be living from paycheck to paycheck. But if you′re in