Because young people, teens in particular, may not realise just how risky their behaviour is, or the wider consequences of their actions, The Royal Gazette is running a series entitled The Law and Youth, which began on November 4 with "Getting Laid Underage''. The series will run every Tuesday for six weeks. And while the series is geared towards young people, the articles contain information parents also need to be aware of.

The series has been produced with the input of two young lawyers and a pupil from law firm Trott and Duncan, who volunteered their time in researching the material on a variety of issues, ranging from playing hooky to dealing drugs.

Keiva Maronie, who was recently called to the Bermuda bar, Eugene Johnston and Dawn Welton, a pupil at the firm, were chosen by the partners in part because as young persons they would be able to identify issues relevant to young people and write about them in a language easily understood.

The issues addressed were suggested by the Gazette's Education Services Co-ordinator, Jennifer Hind. Asked to list the most important legal issues, Miss Maronie noted, "There's a lot of talk of under-age sex among them [young people]. Unfortunately, they receive information from each other, which is for the most part inaccurate. Other issues are drug-related, whether the young people themselves are involved or they have known associates who are involved."

"This series raises concerns highlighted by other young people," she went on to say, "and will help you become more aware of your rights if you find yourself in one of these situations. The series is also important for parents and guardians to read because some of the actions of young people can have severe consequences for them also."

Expanding the conversation to talk about her own career, the young Bermudian who specialises in property law, stated she was attracted to the profession because of its complexity. "I love problem solving," she declared, " and I'm always learning. I get to interact with people in a different way." She explained that providing legal services meant the lawyer was trusted with so much information that the client's welfare, finances, future even, were in her hands. "And the adrenaline rush – I am always up against tight deadlines."

The rewards: "The completion, knowing that I have helped a client reach his or her goal." The challenges: "other attorneys and demanding clients" she declares with a laugh.

The Royal Gazette is keen to continue to offer real-life advice for real-life issues. If you have any legal issues related to young people that you would like addressed in the column, submit your questions to nie@royalgazette.bm or telephone Jennifer Hind 278-0136.