This informative, easy-to-use reference book covers a wide range of legal issues that affect children from birth until legal adulthood. Readers will learn about issues of importance to teenagers such as the right to drive, drink, engage in sexual relations, and choose a custodial parent. The book also addresses young adults' legal responsibilities including civil and criminal liability and the special legal doctrines and procedures that protect minors when they are the subject of legal proceedings. General issues such as child custody, support, adoption, abuse, and inheritance are also discussed. Important legislation and legal cases affecting children and young adults are thoroughly covered in this timely volume. A table of cases, a directory of organizations, a guide to further reading, and an index are also included. Includes table of cases A directory of organizations and a guide to further reading round out this volume