Because young people, and teenagers in particular, may not realise just how risky their behaviour is, or the wider consequences of their actions, The Royal Gazette is to run a series entitled the Law and Youth, beginning tomorrow and running every Tuesday for six weeks.

And while the series is geared towards young people, the articles contain information parents also need to be aware of.

The series has been produced with the input of two young lawyers and a pupil from law firm Trott and Duncan, who volunteered their time in researching the material on a variety of issues, ranging from playing hooky to underage sex.

Keiva Maronie, who was recently called to the Bermuda Bar, Eugene Johnston and Dawn Welton, a pupil at the firm, were chosen by the partners because as young people they would be able to identify issues relevant to young people and write about them in a language easily understood.

The issues being addressed were suggested by The Royal Gazette's Education Services Coordinator, Jennifer Hind.

Asked to list the most important legal issues, Miss Maronie said: "There's a lot of talk of under-age sex among young people.

"Unfortunately, they receive information from each other, which is for the most part inaccurate. Other issues are drug-related, whether the young people themselves are involved or they have known associates who are involved.

"This series raises concerns highlighted by other young people and will help young people become more aware of their rights if they find themselves in one of these situations.

"The series is also important for parents and guardians to read because some of the actions of young people can have severe consequences for them also."

Miss Maronie, who specialises in property law, said she was attracted to the profession because of its complexity. "I love problem solving and I'm always learning. I get to interact with people in a different way."

She explained that providing legal services meant the lawyer was trusted with so much information that the client's welfare, finances and even their future were in her hands. "And the adrenalin rush – I am always up against tight deadlines."

On the rewards, she said: "The completion, knowing that I have helped a client reach his or her goal." And on the challenges, she added: "Other attorneys and demanding clients" she declares with a laugh."

The Royal Gazette is keen to continue to offer real-life advice for real-life issues.

If you have any legal issues related to young people that you would like addressed in the column, submit your questions to nie@royalgazette.bm or telephone Jennifer Hind 278 0136.