Things to do before and after you turn 18

1. Before You Turn 18: Go to Your Last Court Date
At your last court date, the judge will hold a hearing and close your case. It is very important that you go to this hearing. At the hearing the judge will make sure that…

• you are able to view your court records
• you have information about your family’s history and about your foster care placement history
• you know where your brothers and sisters are (if they are in foster care)
• you have completed an application for health insurance
• you have applied to college or a job training program or have secured employment

The judge will also make sure that you have your birth certificate and social security card, along with proof of identification and citizenship or residency status. You need these things to get a job and get into college. If you haven’t been given these documents, tell your lawyer and speak up before the judge closes your case.

You can attend all court hearings for your case once you turn 16. It is a good idea to attend hearings and keep up-to-date on your case.

2. After You Turn 18: Register to Vote
Once you turn 18, you can register to vote. To download an application click here. (You can mail this application, but it must be postmarked at least twenty days before the next election.)

It is important that you vote and make your voice heard. The leaders who are elected will make decisions that affect how our state and country is run. Learn about candidates and make informed choices by going to Vote Smart.

3. After You Turn 18: Register for the Selective Service (Men Only)
The Selective Service is a list of names the United States Government can use to draft men into the military during a war. The selective service list has not been used since the 1970s, but you still need to register. If you do not register, you cannot participate in Federal programs or get federal loans for college.

Find out more and register online at Selective Serivces.

 

 

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