In the United States, drinking is a sort of rite of passage for many teenagers, though it is illegal. One of the worst things a teenager can do when they have been drinking is get behind the wheel of a car. Driving while you are under the influence of alcohol, or any other drug for that matter, is illegal for anyone, no matter your age. For those who are under the age of 21, drinking and driving is a much more serious offense, and young offenders face harsher penalties.

Prior to 1899, there was no such thing as a juvenile justice system. Illinois was the first state to create a separate court that was solely for juvenile offenders. The juvenile justice system was created with the idea that the majority of children’s behavior can be changed and modified so that they can become law-abiding citizens. Though the juvenile justice system does differ from the adult justice system, juveniles retain many of the same rights as their adult counterparts.

With the rise of technology, almost everyone has a computer in their pocket these days -- their cell phones. While these handy devices can make life easier for us, they have also proven to make life more dangerous. In an effort to prevent drivers from using their electronic devices while driving, a new Illinois law that will take effect in July will increase the consequences that drivers will face when caught using an electronic device while driving. This new law will make a first-time offense of using an electronic device while driving a moving violation, rather than just a warning.

Whether you are in court for a civil or criminal matter, or you are the plaintiff or defendant, you are expected to act a certain way and adhere to certain rules when you are in the courthouse. Every time you appear in court, you are being watched and analyzed. The judge, opposing counsel and the jury are examining you and determining what kind of person you are and if you have any credibility. Your actions and behavior in court could either favorably or unfavorably affect your case outcome. Here are a few tips to help you succeed and act appropriately when you go to court: