BY PERRY KLARE ESQ
Class of 1998
Los Alamos High School

Disclaimer: This op-ed is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as advice. If you have specific legal questions, please consult with a qualified attorney.

As a criminal defense attorney practicing in our community and State for many years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of drug use on our teenagers. The allure of experimentation, the desire to fit in, and the crushing weight of academic pressure can lead even the most promising young people down a dangerous path. However, I’ve also seen how a single misstep, fueled by youthful indiscretion and amplified by harsh legal consequences, can derail a life before it’s truly begun.

The war on drugs has not been kind to our children. While the intent may have been to protect them, the reality is that we’ve criminalized an issue that is often rooted in adolescent curiosity and poor judgment. A minor drug offense, a first-time possession charge, can result in a record that haunts a young person for years to come, limiting their educational and employment opportunities, and casting a shadow over their future.

Parents, it’s time to have a reckoning. The stakes are too high to leave your children’s fate in the hands of the criminal justice system. If your child is facing drug charges, or if you suspect they might be involved in substance use, your first call should be to an attorney. Not to the police, not to the school, but to a legal professional who can advise you on your rights and options, and help you protect your child’s future.

I understand the impulse to cooperate with authorities, to believe that honesty is the best policy. But in the legal arena, honesty can be a double-edged sword. What you say to law enforcement or school officials can be used against your child, even if it’s intended to help them. An attorney can act as a buffer, advocating for your child’s best interests, negotiating with prosecutors, and exploring alternatives to incarceration that prioritize rehabilitation and recovery.

It’s also crucial to recognize that drug use is often a symptom of deeper issues. Mental health struggles, academic pressure, social isolation, and trauma can all contribute to a teenager’s vulnerability to substance abuse. By addressing these underlying causes through counseling, therapy, and support, we can help our children heal and break free from the cycle of addiction.

I urge parents to educate themselves on the legal landscape surrounding juvenile drug offenses. Learn about diversion programs, expungement options, and the potential consequences of a criminal record. Talk to your children openly and honestly about the risks of drug use, but also reassure them that you’re there to support them, no matter what.

Remember, your child’s future is too precious to leave to chance. By taking proactive steps to protect their rights and seek appropriate help, you can empower them to overcome their struggles and bring them back to your family.