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In the NPR recording, "Brain Maturity Extends Well Beyond the Teen Years" the speaker, Sandra Aamodt, a neuroscience, believes that maturity in adults happens after the age of 18, closer to the age of 25.

"So the changes that happen between 18 and 25 are a continuation of the process that starts around puberty, and 18 year old are about halfway through that process. Their prefrontal cortex is not yet fully developed. That's the part of the brain that helps you to inhibit impulses and to plan and organize your behavior to reach a goal."

"For instance, a 20 year old is 50 percent more likely to do something risky if two friends are watching than if he's alone."

I agree with this article because I have a

Yes this article links the novel Dear Martin because while Jus and Manny were driving they were only 17, and

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What does the author think about adulthood:
you are legally responsible for all of your actions, assets, and decisions. you are allowed to work more hours then one you was a minor. When you are a minor there is a certain time you have to be home and cant be on the road but when your 18 and older you can stay on the road all night. you can get your own credit card without a cosigner. 48 out of 50 states you can get married at 18 in 48 of those states. there is certain items that you can not buy until you are 18.

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Turning 18 is a milestone for any young adult, from gaining legal rights and responsibilities to feeling a newfound sense of freedom and maturity. While it's an exciting time in any person's life, it's important to understand exactly what factors change when you turn 18 in order to establish yourself as a respected and valuable member of your community. From purchasing fireworks to registering to vote, here's what you can legally do when you're 18:

What Can You Do At 18 Legally?

If you're nearing the age of 18, you have likely seen the meme circulating on social media that says "don't grow up, it's a trap." Maybe you rolled your eyes or became overcome with fear - but either way, adulthood is inevitable. And while most 18-year-olds in the United States still live with their parents, they are legally allowed to do many new things upon entering adulthood. It is important to keep in mind that the responsibilities and consequences of being 18 are much more severe than they were as a minor. You are legally responsible for all of your actions, assets, and decisions. Cheers to 18 years!

1. Vote.

The 26th amendment to the Constitution, enacted on July 1, 1971, established the legal voting age for Americans as 18. You can vote in all national and local elections once you are registered to vote.

2. Join the military.

As a legal adult, you can enlist or be drafted into a branch of the military.

3. Donate blood and become an organ donor.

To help save the lives of others, you can register to donate blood, as well as become an organ donor.

4. Work full time.

As a minor, you were only allowed to work a certain about of hours at your job because of child labor laws. But as a legal adult, you can work full-time and overtime.

5. Play the lottery.

From scratch-off tickets to the Powerball, anyone 18 and older can play the lottery.

6. Obtain special driving permits.

If you work for a company that has heavy equipment or provides transportation services that require special driving permits; you can now train for and acquire a special driving license.

7. Purchase and use tobacco products (in some states).

The legal age to buy tobacco products has recently changed from 18 to 21 in some states across the US, but the majority of states have kept it at 18 years old. States that have changed the age to 21 include Hawaii, California, New Jersey, Oregon, Maine, Massachusetts, as well as 350 cities.

8. Drive late at night.

Most states have a legal curfew for minors when it comes to the time they are able to be out driving at night. If pulled over past a certain hour, a person under 18 would receive a traffic violation.

9. Consent to having sex with someone that is 18 or older.

The federal government has established 18 as the age of consent to legally engage in sexual activities with another person aged 18 or older. The age of consent may be younger or older according to your state's law.

10. Establish a checking and savings account and apply for loans.

Having a job may be a requirement for loan approvals.

11. Apply for credit cards and establish your creditworthiness by paying your bills on time.

Credit card companies are known to target the younger crowd. You can apply for your first credit card without a cosigner once you turn 18.

12. Get piercings or tattoos without parents permission.

Before eighteen, you have to have a parent accompany you when you go to get a tattoo or piercing.

13. Change your birth name.

If you aren't happy with the name your mom and dad gave you when you were born, you can now name yourself something different by filing a petition in the local civil court.

14. File a lawsuit.

Anyone who is 18 years or older and mentally competent can file a lawsuit.

15. Get married.

When you turn 18, you can get married without parental approval in 48 of the 50 states. Mississippi requires you to be 21, and Nebraska requires you to be 19 before you can get married without parental consent.

16. Adopt.

Legally, you can adopt both a puppy and a child when you turn 18. Your likelihood of getting approved for either, however, is another story.

17. Create your Will.

While it seems like a far stretch, it's a great idea to develop a Will earlier in life to ensure your assets are accounted for if anything were to happen to you.

18. Buy spray paint, fireworks, and adult videos.

For obvious reasons (graffiti, safety, etc.), there are certain items you cannot buy until you turn 18 years old.

19. Purchase a house and a vehicle.

Now that you can apply for a loan and work full-time, you can also purchase more expensive investments like land, a home, or a vehicle.

20. Move out of your parents' home.

Unless you apply for emancipation, you are legally supposed to be living at home with your parents until you are of age to move out.

Responsibilities of Turning 18

1. If you are a male, you are required to register with the Selective Service System within 30 days of turning 18. According to the law, www.sss.gov/default.htm, you can be prosecuted if you do not register. If convicted, you can be fined up to $250,000 and/or spend up to five years in jail.

2. As a legal adult, you are now responsible for your actions. If you violate any law, you will be charged as an adult.

3. You can be selected for jury duty.

4. You are legally obligated to pay all debts you incur.

What's still restricted when you turn 18?

While turning 18 comes with many new opportunities, rights, and responsibilities, there are a few restrictions that have yet to be lifted, like purchasing and drinking alcohol (21 years old), purchasing tobacco products in some states (21 years old), going to a casino (21 years old), and renting a vehicle ( 20 to 25 years old).

For more details on your rights and responsibilities as a legal adult, check out additional information on Privileges of Turning 18.

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Turning 18 is a milestone for any young adult, from gaining legal rights and responsibilities to feeling a newfound sense of freedom and maturity. While it's an exciting time in any person's life, it's important to understand exactly what factors change when you turn 18 in order to establish yourself as a respected and valuable member of your community.

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now that you are an adult you are able to do more stuff than when you were a minor. you are able to get married, to work for pay. when you are 18 you still cant drink beer, wine etc you have to wait until you are 21. you are gonna have more responsibility. you can get your own house at 18.  you can get your credit card without your parents having there name in it.

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Download the "Now You Are 18" app!
Welcome to the adult world! NOW YOU ARE 18 has been prepared especially for you. Our purpose is to explain to you what some of your new rights are. Some areas of the law that you want to know about and indeed should know about are presented. We tried to project what your questions might be: what should you do if you have a car accident? ... or, what are your rights if you are arrested? ... or, what should you look for in buying a used car? ... or, what are your legal obligations if you marry? NOW YOU ARE 18 gives you some answers.

The rights explained in this booklet are important. They are your LEGAL rights. It is also important for you to know and remember that ALL the laws that pertain to your rights cannot be listed in such a short guide. It is our purpose to give you these guidelines to make you aware. Please remember there are exceptions and special circumstances that also affect your rights and responsibilities. NOW YOU ARE 18 is your basic guide. We hope it will be helpful in your understanding of your rights and responsibilities as an adult.

When does a person become an "adult "? In Texas, as in most states, you become an adult at age 18. Each state may determine its own "age of majority."

What does it mean to become an "adult"? When you become an "adult" you then have certain new rights, i.e., to vote, make contracts in your own name, and to become completely independent. You also have certain new responsibilities and are held personally accountable for your actions.

When I reach age 18, am I automatically given all the rights of an "adult"? In Texas, the answer is "yes" with the exception of the laws relating to alcoholic beverages. Each state may set differing age limits for many situations, including the following:

To vote in state and local elections

To serve on a jury in court

To marry without parental consent

To make a will

To work for pay

To obtain a driver's license

To be able to examine your credit record

Some of the rights you have after age 18 that you did not have before are as follows:

To sue in court in your own name

To make a contract (rent an apartment, buy a car, and/or take out a loan) in your own name

To obtain medical treatment without parental consent

To be completely independent from parental control

What are some of the responsibilities I have after age 18 that I did not have before?

In Texas after age 17, criminal charges filed against you will be tried in adult criminal court rather than juvenile court.

Your parents are no longer required to support you, and they are not liable for accidents you cause.

Others may sue you on contracts you make.

You are eligible for jury duty.

All males are required to register for military service

What are the requirements for voting? Every citizen of the United States, 18 years of age or older who is a resident of the State and has been registered to vote for 30 days prior to the election is qualified to vote, and may vote in the precinct in which he or she resides. Some exceptions exist.

How do I register to vote? Each person who will be 18 years of age by the next election, who is a citizen of the United States, and who, if he continues to reside in the precinct in which he or she will vote until that election, shall be entitled to register. Once registered, you are not required to register again unless you change your permanent address to a different voting precinct.

Where do I register to vote? You apply to the County Registrar (County Tax Assessor-Collector in most counties) or to Deputy Registrars at most State agencies or to high school principals or other designated school officials. The application may be completed at no cost, either in person or by mail. The earliest you may register is up to two months in advance of your eighteenth birthday. You must be registered by a stated deadline to be able to vote in an election.

Where do I vote? Your local County Clerk establishes voting locations (polling places), usually at a school, city hall or similar place, within the precinct in which you live. Your precinct number is on your voter registration form. In many locations, newspapers list the voting and early voting places by precinct. At the polling place, you will be required to present a photo ID to vote. This may be a Texas driver's license, passport or other approved ID.

May college students vote in the city where they go to school? Yes, for voting purposes, a student has a right to choose his or her place of residence. The student may register at college or at the permanent residence to which he or she intends to return. Students registered in their hometown who will be at school at election time may vote by mail, by applying to their local county election administrator (County Clerk in most counties) for an absentee ballot.

For more information, call 1-800-252-VOTE or visit www.sos.state.tx.us.

Why is jury service important? The United States Constitution and the Texas Constitution guarantee all people, regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin, or economic status, the right to trial by an impartial jury.

If called to serve on a jury, do I have to go? Yes, unless you are excused for some special reason. This is one of the responsibilities of being an adult. You can be penalized for failure to go.

How are people called to serve on a jury? A list of names of potential jurors, from all precincts of the county, is prepared annually from three official sources: current voter registrations, licensed drivers, and Department of Public Safety photo identifications. Before a jury is needed, names are chosen at random from the list and those people are notified to appear at court. This is the jury panel from which jurors are chosen.

Do all people who are in a jury panel actually serve on a jury? No. More people are chosen than will be needed because the judge or attorneys automatically excuse some people.
What are the qualifications for serving on a jury?

Be at least 18 years of age

Be a citizen of this state and of the county in which you are to serve as a Juror

Be qualified under the Constitution and laws to vote in the county in which you are to serve as a juror

Be of sound mind and good moral character

Be able to read and write

Not have served as a juror for six days during the preceding three months in the county court or during the preceding six months in the district court

Not have been convicted of theft or any felony

Not be under indictment or other legal accusation for theft or any felony.

Who will a judge excuse from jury service? A person qualified to serve as a juror may establish an exemption from jury service if he or she:

Is over 70 years of age

Has legal custody of a child younger than 10 years old and service on the jury requires leaving the child without adequate supervision

Is a student at a public or private high school

Is a person enrolled and in actual attendance at an institution of higher education

Is an officer or an employee of the Senate, the House of Representatives, or any department, commission, board, office, or other agency in the legislative branch of state government

Is the primary caretaker of a person who is invalid or unable to care for himself

Is an active duty member of the military who is deployed away from his home station and out of his city of residence

Has to appear or serve on a religious holy day that he observes

A person is disqualified to serve as a juror in a particular case if he or she:

Is a witness in the case

Is interested, directly or indirectly, in the subject matter of the case

Is related by blood or by marriage to a party in the case

Has a prejudice in favor of or against a party in the case

Has served as a juror in a former trial of the same case or in another case involving the same questions or facts

Do people on a jury lose their salary? That depends on the employer. Employers are required to give employees time off for jury service but are not required to continue wage payments. Jurors are paid a nominal fee by the county for their service. An employer may require this fee to be rendered to them for payment of wages for jury days. This can vary from county to county. Financial hardship is not a reason to avoid serving.

How long can people be required to serve on a jury? Jurors are required to serve until the case for which they have been selected is finished.

Is driving a right or a privilege? It is a privilege that the State of Texas regulates. You must pass a written test and a driving test before you are issued a driver's license. This privilege can be revoked and your license to drive can be suspended by the State for many reasons, including bad driving such as multiple collisions, excessive tickets, or driving under the influence of alcohol.

Do the parents continue to be liable for a child's accidents after the child turns 18? No. The liability of a parent ends when a child becomes 18.

Are all drivers required to have car insurance? Yes. All drivers are required to maintain a liability insurance policy and to carry proof of insurance in the vehicle. A driver is required to show proof of insurance to a law enforcement officer who requests it. Proof of liability insurance is required for driver license renewal, annual vehicle license renewal, annual vehicle inspection, and motor vehicle title transfer. Failure to carry insurance is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine determined by the legislature.

How do driving laws apply to motorcycles? All laws of the road that apply to cars also apply to motorcycles. A regular driver's license does not permit a person to legally operate a motorcycle on public roads, however. A person must apply for a permit to operate a motorcycle and must either satisfactorily complete a safety course or pass an operator's test in order to be granted a permit to operate a motorcycle. All operators and passengers under 21 years old must wear a DPS-approved helmet while riding.

What is an occupational license and how does one get one? An occupational license grants limited privileges to drive a motor vehicle for those people whose licenses have been suspended. The person must demonstrate an essential need to drive in order to attend school or work. The application made to the Court must state very specifically why one needs to drive and must limit the driving to the specific times and locations.

What happens if someone is stopped for driving while intoxicated? You will be arrested and taken to jail if you fail a breath/blood test. Your license will be suspended for a specific period of time determined by the legislature. In addition, if you refuse to give a breath/blood specimen, the time of suspension will be increased. You have the right to request a hearing to contest the driver's license suspensions. Your license can be suspended following your arrest for DWI and following your conviction for DWI. Persons under the age of 21 can also be charged with a DUI, driving under the influence. A DUI can be filed simply because an officer detects an odor of alcohol about you. You do not need to be intoxicated to receive a DUI. Intoxicated also includes being under the influence of drugs. A DUI can result in a fine and a license suspension.
What are the penalties for driving while intoxicated?

No prior conviction: Fines and times in jail are determined by the legislature. In addition you will be required to attend some alcohol counseling or educational programs. Remember that your license may have already been suspended.

One or more convictions: Maximum amounts of fines, confinement, and driver's license suspension may more than double for a subsequent offense.

Open Containers: It is a criminal offense for a driver or passenger to possess an open container of alcoholic beverage in a motor vehicle on any public street or highway, whether the vehicle is moving or is stopped or parked.

In all cases you may be eligible for probation for a period of time. Penalties are substantially increased where serious bodily injury results from the offense. If it is shown at the trial of a person that at the time of the offense the person operating the motor vehicle had an open container of an alcoholic beverage in his immediate possession, then the minimum term of confinement substantially increases.

Do the "Driving While Intoxicated" laws apply only to cars and trucks? No. According to Texas law, they apply to operating "motor vehicles," such as motorbikes, motorcycles, aircraft, and watercraft while intoxicated.

Distracted Driving. As of September 1, 2017, drivers cannot use a wireless device to read, write or send electronic messages while operating a motor vehicle unless the vehicle is stopped. Violations could result in substantial fines.

May the state change the drinking age? Yes. Buying beer, wine, or liquor is considered a privilege rather than a right, so a state may change the drinking age.

Is the drinking age different for beer and liquor? No. In Texas it is the same. No person under the age of 21 may legally purchase beer, wine, or liquor. Furthermore, it is an offense to consume it except in visible presence of an adult parent, guardian, or spouse or to be in possession of it under most circumstances. The only time a person under the age of 21 can even possess an alcoholic beverage is in the course and scope of employment at a licensed premise; they are not allowed to consume it.

What is the punishment for purchasing, consuming, or possessing an alcoholic beverage as a minor? This is a misdemeanor offense punishable by fines, which increase with each prior conviction. The court can also suspend your driver's license, and you will be required to do some community service work. In addition, the court may require the minor to attend an alcoholic awareness course.

May a person under the state drinking age buy beer, wine or liquor with parental consent? A person under the legal drinking age may not buy beer, wine, or liquor even if accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or spouse who is over the drinking age. All places that sell beer, wine, or liquor have the duty to ask for identification for proof of age of all persons who appear to be and might be under the drinking age. All places have the right to refuse to sell beer, wine, or liquor to all persons who cannot show true proof of age, even if that person is 21 years or older.

What is the penalty for using a fake ID? If a minor knowingly makes a false entry or alteration on a state driver's license or ID certificate or makes, presents, possesses, sells, or offers to sell a state driver's license or ID certificate with knowledge that it was obtained unlawfully and falsely, he/she commits an offense punishable by fines, confinement, and community service as set by the legislature.

If someone is arrested for a criminal offense, what does he or she have a right to expect from the arresting officer(s}? If arrested, you can expect to be thoroughly searched for weapons, handcuffed, and taken to a police station unless the offense is a minor one like a traffic violation. If the police wish to question you about the offense, you will be advised of your rights under the United States Constitution (your "Miranda" rights); that is, you will be told that you need not answer any questions, that you have the right to a lawyer present during questioning, and that a lawyer will be appointed to assist you if you cannot afford one. If the police do not wish to question you, they are not required to give these warnings.

What basic things should a person remember if arrested? You have an absolute right to refuse to discuss the case with anyone, and you should not answer questions without consulting a lawyer. If you request a lawyer but cannot afford to pay the lawyer's fee, one will be appointed to represent you. If you do answer questions or volunteer information, your statements can almost certainly be used as evidence against you at your trial. This is often true of oral statements as well as those that are written. Police officers cannot force you to answer questions by threats, and cannot bargain leniency in exchange for your statement. If you voluntarily agree to permit police to search you or your property, anything they find can be used as evidence against you. If you choose to answer questions, take tests, or permit a search, you may change your mind at any time and refuse further cooperation but anything already obtained by the police can be used as evidence.

How soon after an arrest must that person appear before a judge? You must be taken in front of a magistrate without "unnecessary delay" after being arrested. In most cases, this will be done within twenty-four hours of your arrest, but the delay may be somewhat longer on weekends and holidays. The magistrate will tell you what you are charged with, inform you of certain rights, and set the amount of your bail, unless you are charged in one of the circumstances in which bail may be denied. If you cannot afford an attorney and you wish to have one appointed, you should tell the magistrate during this hearing.

It is illegal for adults 18 and over to electronically transmit sexually explicit messages and photographs to minors. Such acts are felonies punishable by prison time.

What does it mean to be released on bail? Bail is a security, usually money, given by a person arrested to assure his appearance in court. In Texas, bail is permitted in almost all cases; a magistrate will determine the amount at which the bail is set. You may be released on your promise to appear in court, or you may be required to post an amount of cash or a "surety bond" in which someone guarantees your appearance in court. In any case, if you do not appear as promised, the amount of your bail will be forfeited and a warrant can be issued for your arrest.

What is a contract? A contract is any agreement between two or more people from which each receives some benefit.

Can I make a contract before turning 18? Yes, but as a minor you could have terminated most contracts. Once you reach the age of 18 you can reaffirm a contract made as a minor either expressly or by failure to disaffirm it. Adults cannot usually enforce contracts against minors. That is why your parents, or some adult, probably had to co-sign any contracts you made as a minor. You may be liable for the fair market value of necessary items purchased as a minor. In Texas, if married and under the age of 18 you are considered an adult.
What are some likely contracts I may soon be part of?

Employment contract

Loan for education or to buy a car or to make another large purchase

Installment purchase of some product

Apartment rental

Insurance

Marriage

Medical care

Do all contracts have to be in writing? No. Many contracts (employment, some apartment leases, a promise to pay for medical care) are rarely in writing. However, some contracts must be in writing:

Any purchase of an item costing more than $500

Any contract to buy or sell land

An agreement that cannot be fully performed within one year

What are some of the advantages of written contracts?

Protection against dishonesty - against lies by the other person as to what you had agreed

Protection against poor memories - after a time people will usually have different recollections of their agreement even if there is no dishonesty

What are some of the disadvantages of written contracts? Consumers are often forced to sign printed form contracts that are written to favor the seller; for example, attempting to limit warranties and saying that the consumer must pay the business's legal fees if there is a lawsuit to enforce the contract. Some words contained in written contracts have technical legal meanings, which are unknown to most people.
What are some general rules to follow when I am asked to sign a contract?

Do not sign anything until you are sure you understand the agreement.

Read the entire contract before signing it.

Ask questions about anything in the contract you do not understand.

Cross out parts of the contract that conflict with your agreement. If you do this, initial the cancellations and have the other party do so as well.

Write in parts of your agreement that are not in the contract and have the other party initial the additions.

Do not sign a contract if it contains any blank spaces; either fill them in or cross them out if they do not apply.

Do not be intimidated by sales people.

Do not be taken in by friendly sales people.

Do not think that a printed form contract is OK

Never sign anything unless you understand why you are being asked to sign and what you are agreeing to do.

Be sure that you get a complete, accurate, signed copy of the contract.

What can happen if I do not honor a contract - miss payments or other obligations? You can be sued. You, as a "defendant," can be required to appear against the other person's (plaintiff) claim against you. The judge or jury decides what the facts are and the judge decides who wins. If you do not defend, you will lose by default. If you lose, a "judgment" will exist against you. Interest is added to the amount of the judgment until it is paid.

What can I do if owe more money than I can pay? Some options include working out agreements to pay your debts back over a period of time, taking out a new loan to pay back existing debts, and bankruptcy, which is a formal court proceeding and quite complicated. Bankruptcy can have a bad effect on your credit rating, making it harder for you to obtain a loan in the future.

How do I get a good credit rating? A credit rating, or "credit worthiness," measures your ability to repay a debt. This can be established by a past record of completing payments or by showing a regular salary or other source of money. You can also get a good credit rating by maintaining a savings account, showing uninterrupted employment, and using, and timely paying on, credit cards.

How do I know what my credit rating is? The Fair Credit Reporting Act guarantees you access to a free credit report from each consumer reporting agency that compiles and maintains files on consumers on a nationwide every twelve months.

How long does it take to dear up a bad credit report? There are multiple time periods for how long negative events stay on one's credit report. Generally, bankruptcy, judgements, collections (including unpaid student loans). And unpaid tax liens/judgments can last for 10 years, 7 years. 7 years, and 15 years respectively.

What is collateral? Collateral is anything that has value that can be given as security for a loan. The lender wants to identify property that has a value at least equal to the amount of the loan so that the property can be used to pay back the debt if you are unable to repay the loan.

What if I buy a TV or stereo on installments and have a problem getting it fixed? If the store refuses to fix the set, can I refuse to make payments? In most cases, it is not wise to discontinue payments, since the seller will claim that you are in default on your obligations. In general, you may stop making payments if the selling merchant financed your purchase himself and if you validly revoke your acceptance by notifying the seller of the reason for revocation and returning or offering to return the goods. To use this remedy, however, the non-conformity of the goods (i.e. broken TV set), at the time of purchase, must be such that its value to you is substantially impaired and the non-conformity complained of was not caused by you. On the other hand if the seller sold your promissory note to another party, your payments would most likely have to continue, although the holder of your consumer note may also be subject to a revocation, repair or replacement action. Note that in some instances a seller has a right to repair the set if defective under consumer warranties. In such cases, you may not revoke your acceptance and discontinue making payments.

If I buy something with a high interest rate loan and later have money to pay off the loan, must I pay the entire amount of interest, which would have been due over the term of the original contract? No. Generally a consumer has a right to prepay a loan at any time without penalty. It is important to follow the general rules given in the contracts section of this book prior to signing. You should read and understand all provisions of a contract and check to see if it has a prepayment penalty provision.

Can a purchase contract say that if I do not pay, the store can automatically get its money from my wages? No. The Texas Constitution, except for the enforcement of court-ordered child support payments, prohibits garnishment of wages due for personal services. However, once a payroll check is deposited into a debtor's bank account, the proceeds may be subject to garnishment.

Can the purchase contract say that if I default, I agree to assign my wages to the store? No. In Texas, no retail installment contract or retail charge agreement can include an assignment of wages. This is generally true of all consumer credit loans as well.

Can a lender have different rules for making loans to women than to men? No. It is unlawful for any creditor to discriminate against any applicant because of race, religion, gender, marital status or age. Lenders may only make distinctions based on the applicant's credit worthiness. A married person who does not have an outside job might have problems obtaining a loan unless that person has sufficient collateral to provide as security for the loan. If the person's spouse has an established credit rating, the spouse could guarantee the loan or provide other security, which would support the loan.

What are some consumer protection laws and what do they do? State regulations have been adopted in many areas including term paper sales, motor vehicle sales and repairs, home solicitation selling, and home improvement contracts. Information about consumer protection can be found on the Internet at http:///www.oag.state.tx.us.

Truth in lending: This requires disclosure of credit costs and contract provisions so that consumers can compare credit terms. It also gives a three-day right to cancel any credit sales when the collateral for the debt is a residence.

T.C. Door-To-Door Rule: This regulation creates a three-day recission right for any contract on credit and cash sales of $25.00 or more, which take place away from the seller's regular place of business. Door-to-door contracts are required to contain a bold-faced notice of the cancellation right.

Unsolicited credit cards: This law prohibits issuance of unsolicited credit cards. You may file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission if you receive an unsolicited credit card. However, you may have applied for one and forgotten about it (in the mall, at the football stadium, or the basketball arena, where you received a free T-shirt or towel to fill out an application), or you may simply have received a renewed card for an account that you have recently cancelled. If you do receive a card that you do not want, cut it up and contact the card issuer and tell them that you do not want an account.

Fair Credit Reporting Act: This law ensures fair, timely and accurate reporting of credit information. It also restricts the use of reports on consumers, and in certain situations, requires the deletion of obsolete information. The law applies to lenders and employers, as well as any business that provides credit reports.

Equal Credit Opportunity Act: This prohibits discrimination in lending because of race, religion, sex, marital status or age. The law applies to all lenders and credit transactions, not just consumer credit transactions. There are rules for taking, evaluating and acting on a credit application except when the spouse's credit history is part of the loan or the signature is needed for the lender to take a security interest in collateral for the loan. Other rules apply to furnishing and maintaining credit information.

What is the difference between a "full" and "limited" warranty? All warranties must be labeled as either "full" or "limited." Under a "full" warranty, the dealer/manufacturer is given a reasonable number of chances to fix defects but then must allow you to choose a full refund or a replacement without charge. A "full" warranty applies to anyone who owns the product during the warranty period. Few "full" warranties are given. The refund or replacement rights do not exist under "limited" warranties. Most warranties are "limited."

Are warranties important? Yes, they establish your right to have defects fixed at no charge. You should always ask for a copy of the warranty. A dealer is required to give you a copy. Texas has a Deceptive Trade Practices Act, which gives you additional rights for breach of warranty or for other deceptive trade practices. The Act offers consumers strong protection against sellers of defective products.

Do I have any protection after the stated warranty period ends? Maybe. There is usually an implied (unwritten) warranty created by statute that, for a reasonable time, an item purchased from a dealer will be fit for the purpose for which it was sold.

Do these warranties apply to used items? After the stated warranty period, there are no warranties.

Do I have to pay for unauthorized work done by a repair shop? It depends on what you told the shop when you asked them to do the repairs. The law protects all consumers on repair contracts, requiring written estimates under certain circumstances.

What if I bought a "lemon"? The Texas Lemon Law is a state law that helps consumers who buy or lease new motor vehicles and have repeated problems getting their vehicles properly repaired, repurchased, or replaced. The Lemon Law is limited to vehicles purchased or leased from Texas licensed dealers or leasers.

What vehicles are covered by the Lemon Law? New vehicles, including cars, trucks, vans, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, motor homes, towable recreation vehicles, and demonstrator vehicles. The relief available to used motor vehicle buyers is limited to repairs only, if the vehicle is still under the original factory warranty.

How do I file a complaint? A Lemon Law complaint must be filed in writing to the Texas Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicles Division. It is important that all records be kept of repair orders, letters to manufacturer, and calls. For further information and forms, contact the Texas Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division, P.O. Box 2293, Austin, TX 78768 or call Statewide toll free 800-622-8682.

Whom should I contact if I have consumer questions? Attorney General of Texas, Consumer Protection at 1-800-621-0508 or Texas Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicles Division, (888) 368-4689, or on the web at either http://www.oag.state.tx.us or http://www.txdmv.gov/protection/lemon_law.htm.

When can a person marry without parents' consent? At age 18, you can marry without the consent of your parents.

What is the youngest age at which a person can marry with parents' consent? The youngest age at which a person may marry with parents' consent is 16. (Tex. Fam. Code Ann. / 2.102.)

Is a marriage a contract? Yes, it is a contract between two consenting adults. State law creates the relationship and describes the consequences of divorce or other marital problems.

How does one get a marriage license? You apply to the county clerk no more than 30 days, but at least 72 hours, before the marriage ceremony and pay the application fee.

What is required for a valid ceremonial marriage? All you need is:

A valid marriage license

An authorized official (generally a clergyman, judge, or others authorized to perform marriages under the law)

A marriage ceremony

Does Texas recognize "informal" or common law marriages? Yes, a valid marriage may also be provided by the execution of a Declaration of Informal Marriage form at the County Clerk's office or by proof that: (1) the parties, free to marry, agree to be married; (2) live together as partners in this state; and (3) represent to others that they are married. There is no specific amount of time they must live together. An informal marriage is as valid as a ceremonial marriage, and a divorce must be obtained to end it. However, if a claim of informal marriage is not made within two years of the date the relationship ended, there is a rebuttable presumption that there was no agreement made.

In a marriage, who has to provide support? Both partners have an obligation to provide for support of the other and of all minor children. Either spouse may be held liable for necessities furnished to the other, or to all minor children.

What happens in a divorce? A judge will consider child custody, child support, and property division. As a general rule, all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are divided equally.

What are the grounds for divorce? There are 7 grounds for divorce in Texas. These are enumerated in Section 6.001 - 6.007 of the Texas Family Code. Texas has two "no fault" grounds for divorce. One is "insupportability," here the legitimate ends of the marriage have been destroyed and the parties have no reasonable expectation of reconciling. The other no-fault ground is living apart for a period of three years.

Can a father be required to support a child if he is not married? Yes. The child, the child's mother, a child support agency, or certain other parties can sue a father. A wage assignment can be obtained that will automatically deduct the amount from the father's paycheck.

What if the man denies that he is the child's father? The child, the child's mother, a child support agency, or certain other parties can start a paternity action. The court will require blood tests. Very accurate blood tests now exist. If the question is not settled, a trial will be held to determine who is the child's father.

May a parent's rights be terminated? Yes. A court may terminate parental rights for a variety of reasons, including abandonment, failure to support, endangerment of the physical or emotional well-being of the child, and various other grounds.

Does an abused spouse have to start a divorce action to get assistance from the courts? No. You can get a protective order from the court if you or a member of your family or household have been subject to abuse and the court finds that abuse is likely to occur in the foreseeable future. The order may contain a wide variety of remedies. Failure to comply with the terms of the order can be punishable by fine, imprisonment, or both. Consult the Yellow Pages under Social Services Organizations for contact information of groups serving abused spouses. (Not limited to battered wives ... some women beat up their husbands too!)

What kinds of protection can an abused spouse receive from a court while a divorce action is pending? In Texas the same relief under protective orders, as stated above, is available to a spouse while a divorce action is pending.

Can an abused spouse have a criminal complaint pursued against the offending spouse? Yes. If you are abused, immediately call the police or prosecuting attorney's office. Get hospital treatment and keep records of injuries, witnesses, police officers, and medical attendants. Get copies of medical reports. A temporary protective order may be requested to keep your spouse away from your home and place of employment.

Can an abused spouse bring an action for personal injuries against the offending spouse? Yes. To do so, a civil action must be started. You should see an attorney to discuss the sufficiency of evidence, the facts that must be proven, and the amount of damages or other remedies you could obtain.

Must a lease be written to be enforceable? No, unless the lease is for longer than one year.
What are the advantages of having a written lease?

You will have a better idea of all your rights and obligations.

You will have protection against dishonesty.

You will have protection against poor memories.

What are the disadvantages of a written lease?

Printed form leases usually favor the landlord.

The lease could change some of the rules that would otherwise favor the tenant.

What is a security deposit, how much money is it usually, and what is it used for? It is an amount of money (often equal to one month's rent, but can be any amount) that the landlord may hold as security against loss for items such as property damages, unclean conditions, and unpaid rent. The landlord may retain all or part of the security deposit to pay for damage or charges for which you are legally liable under the lease or as a result of breaking the lease. He may not, however, retain any portion of a security deposit to cover normal wear and tear. The tenant must give the landlord a written statement of the tenant's forwarding address upon moving out. If the tenant does this, and is not delinquent in the rent, the landlord must give to the tenant an itemized list of deductions, if any, within 30 days, and a refund of the unused portion of the security deposit.

May I withhold my last month's rent and request that my landlord applies my deposit to the rent due? No.

In a monthly lease, can I end the lease by just leaving at the end of a month? No. You must give one month's notice, unless a different period of notice is specified in a document signed by both parties.

If I sign a lease with 3 friends as tenants, and they move out, do I have to pay the full rent or only my quarter share? It depends on what the lease says. You will probably have to pay the full rent. You would then have a claim against your friends and could sue them.

If I break a lease, what amount can I be sued for? You can be sued for all unpaid rent, for any physical damage including unusual cleaning expenses, for advertising expenses and other costs of re-renting the apartment, and for the landlord's attorney fees and court costs, if the written lease provides for that.

Should I have renter's insurance? Yes. The landlord's insurance will cover only the building, not your possessions. Renter's insurance is relatively inexpensive.

What are my obligations as a tenant? Under the law, a tenant must refrain from damaging the rental premises and keep the premises in a fit and livable condition.

How does the landlord terminate a tenancy for non-payment of rent? If you do not pay the rent when due, a landlord may give you a notice to either payor leave within three days. This notice to leave or vacate may be preceded by a notice of default if there is a written lease that provides for one. The three-day notice requires the tenant to leave the premises within that time. If you do not leave, the landlord can file an eviction lawsuit in the Justice of the Peace court. Even if you are evicted, you are liable for the rent until you are evicted by an order of the court.
What can I do if the landlord refuses to make repairs to the premises? The landlord's general duty is to make a diligent effort to repair or remedy a condition if:

The tenant specifies the condition in a notice to the person to whom rent is normally paid.

The tenant is not delinquent in the payment of rent.

The condition materially affects the physical health or safety of an ordinary tenant.

The condition is not caused by the tenant or a member of the tenant's family or a guest of the tenant.

If the cost of the repair is minor in relation to the rent, it may be your responsibility to fix the problem depending on what your written lease may provide. When conditions are so bad as to make the premises "uninhabitable," you should consult an attorney about possible remedies. A landlord has a legal duty to provide security and safety devices such as deadbolt locks, peep holes, and smoke detectors.

Under what circumstances can the landlord enter my premises? A landlord may enter your premises at reasonable times to inspect, make repairs or show the premises to prospective tenants. The landlord may enter at unusual situations to preserve or protect the premises.

Can a landlord refuse to rent an apartment to me? Generally, yes. The denial may not be based on race, religion, familial status or national origin.

Must an employer give employees a written contract? No. Texas has "at will" employment. An employment contract is a rarity in Texas because employers do not like to hinder by contract their ability to fire an employee.

For what reasons can an employee be fired? No employee has an expectation for continued employment, and an employer has the right to fire any employee for any reason. The employee must show that the termination resulted from a statutory violation. Most statutory violations concern allegations of discrimination of some sort. Illegal discrimination occurs when an employer treats you differently because of your race, sex, religion, national origin, age, or because of a disability. You must be 40 years of age or older to have protection from age discrimination.
The Fair Employment Practice Agencies office in Texas is listed below:
Do these discrimination prohibitions apply to hiring as well? Yes. An employer is prohibited from basing employment decisions on an applicant's race, sex, religion, national origin, age, or because of a disability. If discrimination is suspected, an administrative complaint must be filed with the appropriate agency. The federal agency is the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC works with the Fair Employment Practice Agencies (FEPAs). You must file your discrimination charge with the FEPA within 180 days of the wrongful conduct. These charges raise claims under state and local laws prohibiting employment discrimination as well as the federal laws enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Texas Commission on Human Rights

P.O. Box 13006

6330 Highway 290 E, Suite 250

Austin, Texas 78723

Phone: 1-888-368-4689

Website: http://www.twc.state.tx.us/customers/jsemp/jsempsubcrd.html

At what age can a person enlist in the armed forces? A person can enlist as early as age 17, with parental consent, and at 18, without. Both males and females can choose to enlist in any branch of the military. Enlistees must be citizens of the United States or immigrant aliens with immigration and naturalization papers.

Who is required to register for Selective Service? All U.S. citizen males are required to register for Selective Service upon reaching their 18th birthday. Also, all permanent resident aliens and undocumented aliens must register. Lawful non-immigrants on visas should not register. Until the age of 26, men are required to inform the Selective Service Agency whenever they change their permanent address.
How do I register?
When do I register? All required males must register within 30 days of their 18th birthday; this provides a 60-day window in which registration is possible. A man may register as early as 17 years and 3 months old.

Online at sss.gov

Complete and return a registration form available at any Post Office.

Return a reminder mail-back card that is sent to many young men around the time they turn 18.

Check "Yes" on Box #29 on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Through the assistance of an appointed Selective Service Registrar at your high school, if available.

Will draft cards be issued when I register? You will receive a registration acknowledgment card. This card will be proof that you have complied with the law, so keep it in a safe place. If a draft occurs, you will be notified. You must report for a physical examination and processing. The notice will also provide information on possible exemptions and deferments.

What happens if I don't register? Several punishments, including fines, incarceration and loss of privileges.

In 2015, the Texas Legislature amended the state's truancy law to raise the ceiling for compulsory student attendance from age 17 to age 18. Thus, effective 9/1/15, students ages 6-18 are required to attend school. At the same time, the Legislature removed criminal liability for student truancy (defined as ten or more absences in a six-month period), but parents who contribute to student truancy may still be found criminally liable. Instead of being jailed, truant students may be ordered by a court to participate in mandatory counseling or tutoring, among other things.

State Bar of Texas for lawyer referral services
http://www.texasbar.com
800-204-2222 option 8

Attorney General of Texas, Consumer Protection
http://www.oag.state.tx.us
800-621-0508

Consumer-Reporting Agencies (fees are involved)

Experian: 888-397-3742

Trans Union: 800-888-4213

Equifax: 888-202-4025

Texas Department of Transportation
www.dot.state.tx.us
888-368-4689

Motor Vehicle Division

P.O. Box 2293, Austin, TX 78768

Texas Commission on Human Rights (FWPA)
http://www.welcome.toftchr
888-452-4778

P.O. Box 13006 Capitol Station

Austin, Texas 78711-3006

Texas Abuse Hotline

800-252-5400

NOW YOU ARE 18 is a project of the TEXAS LAWYERS AUXILIARY.

The TEXAS LAWYERS AUXILIARY gratefully acknowledges the contributions of the faculty of the SCHOOL OF LAW, ST. MARY'S UNIVERSITY, San Antonio, Texas. For Updated Versions, the TEXAS LAWYERS AUXILIARY expresses its appreciation to the Travis County Bar Association and the Lawyer Referral Service of Central Texas, and to Dean C. Paul Rogers, III, of Southern Methodist University School of Law and to Austin Attorneys Leon Barish, W. Stephen Banesh, Blair Dancy, Randy Glenn, Michelle Huhn, Tom O'Leary, Brad Reagan, Greg Reed, Bill Rossick, David Sheppard, Todd Wong, County Clerk Dana DeBeauvoir and District Clerk Amalia Rodriquez-Mendoza for consideration and verification of the new material.

FOUNDING EDITOR and CHAIRMAN (1987 - 1990): Ann M. Smith, San Antonio
GRANT: THE TEXAS BAR FOUNDATION
NOTE: THIS BOOKLET [sic] IS BASED ON TEXAS LAW AND IS ISSUED TO INFORM AND NOT TO ADVISE

This material is a summary of the laws, as they existed in September 2017 at the time of publication. This is GENERAL and BASIC information only. Laws are constantly changing. Exceptions and special circumstances exist. You should seek legal advice from an attorney of your choice who can take into account all the factors relevant to your particular situation.

Copyright (c) 1987 TEXAS LAWYERS AUXILIARY. All rights reserved.

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Download the "Now You Are 18" app! Welcome to the adult world! NOW YOU ARE 18 has been prepared especially for you. Our purpose is to explain to you what some of your new rights are. Some areas of the law that you want to know about and indeed should know about are presented.