Youth & Law Forum

Young people often face alcohol, marijuana and counterfeit pills without understanding the risks to judgment and brain development. This piece from the Judge Charles V. Johnson Youth and Law Forum urges honest conversations about substance use, warning that impaired decisions can worsen already difficult situations and change life trajectories, while calling on adults to provide guidance.

Black youth in King County have the drive to work and learn, but often lack access to mentorship, networks, internships and reliable transportation. This commentary from the Judge Charles V. Johnson Youth and Law Forum argues that employers, institutions and community leaders must remove these barriers, ensuring young people know about opportunities and receive genuine support to pursue them.

Firearm possession among youth carries risks many young people don't fully grasp, from unknown gun histories to serious legal consequences under Washington law. This commentary from the Judge Charles V. Johnson Youth and Law Forum explores why fear and pressure drive teens toward guns, and calls on adults to build trust, offer alternatives, and guide youth toward safer choices.

Counterfeit pills may contain fentanyl and other dangerous substances, while alcohol and cannabis impair judgment, memory and reaction time—especially in developing brains. Impairment can worsen risky situations like peer pressure or arguments. Most importantly, never let embarrassment prevent seeking emergency help if someone shows signs of overdose or medical distress after substance use.

A guide outlining five key points young people should understand about firearms and Washington law, including age restrictions, exceptions for safety courses and hunting, the importance of context in legality, avoiding legal advice from friends or social media, and seeking help from trusted adults when fear drives thoughts of carrying a gun.

Seattle-area youth seeking their first job can benefit from six practical tips: building a simple résumé, practicing interviews, exploring programs like the Seattle Youth Employment Program, networking with trusted adults, planning reliable transportation and asking for help along the way to prepare confidently for entering the workforce.