Legal Definitions - major

In a legal context, the term major refers to an individual who has reached the age of legal majority, which is typically 18 years old in most jurisdictions. This status signifies that the person is considered an adult and possesses full legal capacity. This means they are legally empowered to make independent decisions, enter into contracts, manage their own affairs, and are fully responsible for their actions under the law, without requiring parental or guardian consent.

• Example 1: Contractual Agreements

  A 19-year-old college student decides to rent an apartment off-campus. Because they are a legal major, they can independently sign the lease agreement, obligating themselves to pay rent and abide by the terms of the contract. The landlord does not need parental permission or a co-signer based solely on the student's age.

  This illustrates that as a "major," the student has the legal capacity to enter into binding contracts, like a lease, without the involvement of a guardian.

• Example 2: Personal Autonomy and Healthcare

  A 20-year-old individual visits a doctor for a medical concern. As a legal major, they have the right to privacy regarding their health information and can consent to medical treatments or procedures on their own behalf. The doctor is not legally permitted to disclose their medical information to their parents without the individual's explicit consent.

  This demonstrates that being a "major" grants an individual the legal authority to make personal decisions, including those related to healthcare, and to control their private information.

• Example 3: Legal Responsibility

  A 22-year-old is involved in a car accident where they are found to be at fault. Because they are a legal major, they are held fully accountable for any damages or legal consequences arising from the accident, including potential lawsuits or criminal charges, just like any other adult.

  This example shows that a "major" is subject to the full extent of legal responsibility and accountability for their actions, without the protections or limitations that might apply to a minor.