If you’re the parent of a teenager, you’re probably already aware of just how popular vape pens are. You may have seen other kids using them, but it can still come as a shock when your own is caught.
The truth is, good kids can make mistakes, and the best way to protect your teen’s future is to talk with a well-qualified defense attorney.
Vape Pens and Teenagers
When it comes to tobacco, teens can get in some pretty serious trouble. Texas law prohibits the purchase, possession, and use of vape pens (also called e-cigarettes) by people under 21 years old or 18 years old and in the military. Teens caught with vape pens for inhaling tobacco products can be fined up to $100.
Vape pens are also prohibited on school premises. If a teen is caught with a vape pen on their high school or college campus, they may also face additional, separate consequences, including being suspended or expelled and losing critical financial aid.
THC and Juvenile Drug Charges
The law is much more strict when it comes to THC. Adults caught with THC vape pens can be charged with a felony and face jail time of six months to two years. For teenagers, charges involving small amounts of drugs—like a vape pen with trace amounts of THC in it—are usually juvenile court matters.
However, sometimes teens can be tried as adults in these matters. This can happen if the teen is almost an adult, for example, if they are 17. It can also happen if the quantities involved are large or if there are other factors that make the situation more serious.
Teens caught with vape pens containing even small amounts of THC can face juvenile drug charges that result in consequences such as:
- Fines up to $500
- Probation
- Educational course on substance abuse requirements
- Rehabilitation or treatment requirements
- Suspension or expulsion from school (if on school property)
If Your Teen Is in Trouble, Call Our Fort Worth Lawyers
Teens caught with THC can face serious consequences. It’s important to get legal help right away. The sooner you act, the more time your attorney has to take action in your teen’s case.
If your teenager has been accused of possessing a vape pen with THC in it, call 817-678-6771 for a confidential consultation with the Fort Worth defense attorneys at Lee and Wood, LP. You can also send us a message.
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