Hunter Biden has long been a burden on his family. His father has been a loyal, perhaps over-indulgent, parent. Understandably so, given the loss of his wife and daughter in a motor vehicle accident years ago and the more recent death of his son, Beau, from cancer. This explains why he is so protective of Hunter.

But Hunter has now become a serious political burden not just on his father but also on the country. In a close election, Joe Biden could lose to a man who presents a clear and present danger to the nation. It may not be fair, but the Trump campaign will do anything to exploit perceived weaknesses in the run-up to the election. That includes efforts to tie the president to the unsavory aspects of Hunter’s life.

What can the son do to ease both the burden on his father and the risk to the country? His father is being accused, by association, of participating in or condoning some of Hunter’s activities. He has even been accused of directing the Justice Department to go easy on his son.

It’s time for Hunter to grow up. He could do so by pleading guilty and accepting the consequences, even if it means going to jail. It’s past time for him to accept responsibility for the gun possession charge, not paying his taxes and for trading on his father’s name in many of his business ventures.

How refreshing it would be in this day and age to hear him say: “I am responsible! I am at fault! Instead of demanding a trial, I will plead guilty to any offense for which there is credible evidence that I committed a crime. It’s past time for me to stand up and accept the consequences. If it means jail time, so be it!

“It’s not my father’s fault that I have been a burden on the family. He certainly tried to help me overcome my weaknesses. But, too often, I did not listen. I was the prodigal son, always welcomed home, no matter my transgressions. My father was always there for me. He never lost faith. At long last I can repay the debt.

“If my father made a mistake; it was being too kind, understanding and supportive when I needed tough love. I have hurt him and other members of my family deeply. More importantly, I have put the country at risk by becoming an election issue. I can finally show my appreciation by admitting responsibility and accepting the consequences of my behavior. There are many things I have done wrong and some may have been illegal. If so, here I am, at last prepared to do what’s right.

“There is too much at stake for me to risk being a contributing factor to a devastating defeat that would imperil the nation. I owe this acceptance to my family and a loving father who was always there for me, even when I wasn’t there for myself.”

James W. Dolan is a retired Dorchester District Court judge who now practices law.