LAUGH IT OFF
Are Your Teens Getting More Than Candy This Halloween? MINOR IN POSSESSION
Trick-or-treating season is here, and while it can be a fun occasion for kids and adults alike, some teenagers tend to focus on the “trick” portion of the evening. With mischief as part of the holiday, it’s not uncommon for even well-behaved kids to get up to no good this time of year. Sometimes, they can take things too far. This is especially true when alcohol is involved. DEFINING POSSESSION Just like in the rest of the United States, it’s illegal here for anyone under the age of 21 to consume alcohol. But consumption is just part of a wider umbrella of laws designed to keep beer and liquor out of the hands of youngsters. A juvenile in Georgia can wind up with a minor in possession charge for any of the following actions: • Misrepresenting their age or identity to buy alcohol • Possessing an alcoholic beverage • Purchasing or attempting to purchase such a beverage • Using a fake ID to buy alcohol CONSEQUENCES If your child is found guilty of this misdemeanor, they will face consequences. A judge may require they seek counseling, do community service, and/or pay restitution to any individuals hurt by their actions. Also, their driver’s license may be suspended, and they could be placed on probation. A minor in possession charge can also establish a criminal record for your child, though the judge may be persuaded to avoid leaving such a permanent mark on their future. This is where having an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your case can make all the difference. AN IMPORTANT EXCEPTION There are a few exceptions where those under 21 will not be charged with a crime for possessing and consuming alcohol, such as working in a brewery or taking part in a religious ceremony. But the most important circumstance where this law does not apply is in emergency situations where a minor has overdosed. In these life-threatening occasions, neither a minor who calls emergency services to report the overdose nor the overdosed teen themselves will be charged. It’s deeply important you emphasize this to your teenager. Their safety and that of their friends is most important. They don’t have to fear seeking help.
LEFTOVER CANDY SNACK MIX Inspired by Food & Wine Magazine
This recipe from Momofuku Milk Bar chef and “Master Chef” judge Christina Tosi makes great use of those extra Halloween goodies. It’s a quick and easy way to both elevate and get rid of unwanted leftovers.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups mini pretzels, coarsely broken
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted • 12 oz mini candy bars, such as Snickers, chopped into 1/2-inch piece
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar • 2 tbsp granulated sugar • 1/3 cup dry milk powder
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat oven to 275 F. 2. In a large mixing bowl, fold together pretzels, sugars, milk powder, and butter. 3. Spread mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 minutes. 4. Let cool for at least 30 minutes and mix in candy bar pieces before serving.
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