Far too often, teens find themselves caught up in the legal system over actions that didn’t seem like a big deal at the time. Unforeseen consequences of small pranks, petty theft, public drinking or urination, simple assault, and trespassing can become too overwhelming for somebody without legal experience, resources, or know-how. This simple guide defines misdemeanors and minor offenses, explains what to do when cited for one, and narrates the court experience in an accessible way. Most important, it also guides readers who may have already encountered trouble on successfully moving beyond it and avoiding further problems down the line.