It might happen if James doesn't follow Harry's instructions or does something dangerous. Like when he experiments with forbidden magic or disregards Harry's warnings about certain magical creatures.
His father, Harry Potter, might also send a Howler. Harry knows the importance of discipline and responsibility, and if James was shirking his duties or not following the rules at Hogwarts, Harry would not hesitate to use a Howler to communicate his disappointment and expectations.
Well, sometimes it's because he did something really naughty or broke a major rule at Hogwarts.
It could create a lot of drama and tension. Maybe it leads to a big argument or a revelation of some hidden secret.
Maybe it's because Harry did something really naughty that Sirius needed to scold him about.
Maybe Harry was really angry or frustrated with something Sirius did and wanted to express his strong feelings in a dramatic way.
Maybe Harry was really angry or frustrated with Sirius and wanted to express it strongly. A howler gets the point across!
He might be initially embarrassed, especially if he receives it in a public place like the Great Hall.
One possible plot could be that James Sirius Potter has done something really naughty at Hogwarts, like pulling a major prank that went too far. The Howler then arrives, screaming at him in front of all his friends and classmates, causing him great embarrassment. This could lead to him having to face the consequences and also learning a valuable lesson about the limits of his mischief.
Well, it could involve all sorts of things. Maybe he gets into trouble and the howler is from a teacher or a family member scolding him.
Maybe Snape did something that went against Lily's expectations or values, and she uses the howler to express her disappointment. For instance, he might have joined a group she doesn't approve of.