FindLaw for Teens

Getting suspended from school might not sound that bad sometimes. After all, school days are long, so what's wrong with a little vacay from the school year every now and then? However, out-of-school suspensions likely become part of your permanent school record. (And your parents get Big Mad too.) But…

Public school students don't lose their constitutional rights when they walk onto school property. This includes your expectation of privacy and the right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure under the Fourth Amendment. So, what does this mean when it comes to your Fourth Amendment rights as a student? And when is it okay or not okay for school administrators to search you? Here's what you should know.

Public school students generally have the same First Amendment rights to freedom of speech as everyone else when they're at school and during school activities. But the U.S. Supreme Court has carved out some exceptions when it comes to protecting student speech because of the need to provide a safe and orderly school environment. So when it comes to your First Amendment free speech rights, what can you say without getting in trouble at school?

As a student, you maintain certain individual rights under the U.S. Constitution at school and at school activities. Federal laws and state laws also protect students. Local school districts must ensure that their school policies protect your civil liberties as well. What exactly are the rights you have when you're at school? Stop scrolling social media and take some notes. We've got the 411 on your fundamental rights as a student.

If it seems like it's taking an eternity turn 21, try learning to exercise a little patience. The legal consequences of being caught with a fake ID are more serious than you probably think. FindLaw takes a look at this important topic in our teen comic series.

It's the weekend, and that means it's time to go out! Time for mixed drinks and some shots with your friends. Except you're still underage. Oh yeah, that. A minor setback. You'll just ask your older brother, who everyone says looks just like you, if you can borrow his ID for the night so you won't miss out on the fun. Or, since your 21st birthday is still painfully far off, you'll have someone in the know hook you up with a fake ID. Whoever said that kids don't know how to use their brains or solve problems? Guess again, genius.