My son is 16 years old. My wife and I have had problems with him for several years not doing his schoolwork and have tried all methods to motivate, encourage, and/or force him to become responsible for his actions. He has had a few run-ins with the law (resulting in adjudication or setting aside the charges) and has been suspended from school several times (once nearly expelled). To make a long story short, his road has lead him to becoming totally disobedient, running away from home and not returning and staying when we have requested. He does not have a job or any means of support and has started to use drugs and alcohol.
We are at our wits end what to do with him and to further complicate matters we have an 8 year old boy and a 1 year old girl that are being affected by his actions and the disturbances that occur when he is around. My wife and I do not want to get in any legal trouble with the oldest child regarding physically restraining him or abuse.
Any advice on what we can do in our situation would be greatly appreciated.

