Adult 101: Pamphlet explains responsibilities to young adults

A pamphlet designed to answer some of the questions young adults may have about the legal system is available at the Yuma Justice Court office.

Titled, "When You Turn 18," the pamphlet is intended to give new adults a basic understanding on a wide variety of Arizona laws.

"These are the type of topics that at some point, everyone is going to be exposed to," said Marshall George Hofer. "They may have some misconception about what the laws are and this pretty much lays it out for them."

Hofer, who works at Yuma Justice Court, said while the law can seem complicated and intimidating, there are new rights and responsibilities that come with being an adult.

He added it's also important that young adults realize they are now accountable for their actions.

"I would suggest everyone who turns 18, or will soon, to read it," Hofer said.

The pamphlet deals with the state laws regarding alcohol, criminal charges, divorce and marriage, domestic abuse, drugs and narcotics, what happens when they get arrested, tobacco and torts.

It also contains lots of information on subjects such as banking, contracts, credit, employment, jury duty, military service and voting.

Hofer added he thinks the pamphlet is so informative that adults, even those who don't have children about to turn 18, should read it also.

"They may actually learn things themselves that they may be unclear about," Hofer said.

In addition to the information listed in each section, there are lots of helpful phone numbers listed in the end of the pamphlet.

The pamphlet is a project of the Arizona Foundation for Legal Services and Education in partnership with the Arizona Supreme Courts and the the Maricopa County Courts.

Hofer added that the pamphlet is not designed to take the place of an attorney, but to provide general information.

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James Gilbert can be reached at

jgilbert@yumasun.com or 539-6854.