What is the Legal Drinking Age in Texas? History of the Legal Age of Consumption and Purchase of Alcohol Currently, in Texas the legal age to purchase or consume alcohol (with few exceptions) is 21. Prior to 1920, there was no national minimum drinking age, and the laws regarding age varied widely from state to state. Some states had no minimum age for consumption or purchase whatsoever. However, in 1920, the “Grand Experiment” began with the ratification of the 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution, which established the prohibition of alcoholic beverages throughout the country by making the production, transport, and sale of alcohol illegal. Prohibition lasted for thirteen years until the 18th Amendment was repealed by the 21st
Read more →Assault and Battery: What is the Difference? The Common Law History Assault vs. Battery at Common Law – “Common Law” is the term used for laws derived from judicial precedent made in the court system rather than codified in a statute. Common law crimes originated in England and eventually found their way to the United States. When a decision was handed down in a case, the opinion had a binding effect on later decided cases, and the principle by which judges are bound to follow a rule of law created in a previous, similar case is known as stare decisis. Today, many crimes that originated in the common law are now enumerated in both state and federal statutes. Traditionally, common
Read more →Texas Child Discipline and Punishment This is a follow-up to our popular post about whether it is legal to spank a child in Texas. As pointed out before, whether spanking amounts to a criminal charge (Injury to a Child) or reasonable discipline if often a matter of opinion. In their natural development, children sometimes challenge or test parental and adult expectations or choose to misbehave for secondary gain. This significant part of their growth process should have consequences. Discipline teaches children right from wrong, acceptable from unacceptable behavior. Parental discipline should help children engage with others by modifying or controlling their conduct. Appropriate discipline is one of the most important parental responsibilities. Consistent and constructive discipline helps children become responsible,
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