Legal Definitions - mature

The term "mature" has different meanings in a legal context, primarily referring to financial obligations becoming due or to a legal principle concerning minors' decision-making.

Mature (verb) / Maturity (noun)

In finance and contract law, when a debt or obligation "matures," it means that the agreed-upon date for payment or fulfillment has arrived, and the obligation becomes due and payable. "Maturity" is the specific date or point in time when this occurs.

• Example 1: Corporate Bond

  A large technology company issues a bond that states it will "mature" in five years. This means that after five years from the issue date, the company must repay the principal amount of the bond to the bondholders.

  Explanation: The five-year mark is the maturity date, at which point the company's obligation to repay the principal becomes due.

• Example 2: Certificate of Deposit (CD)

  Someone invests in a 12-month Certificate of Deposit (CD) at their bank. When the 12 months are complete, the CD "matures," and the investor can withdraw their initial deposit plus any accumulated interest.

  Explanation: The end of the 12-month period is when the bank's obligation to return the funds and interest becomes due, marking the CD's maturity.

• Example 3: Promissory Note

  A small business owner signs a promissory note agreeing to repay a loan to a private lender on a specific date, say, October 1st, 2025. On that date, the promissory note "matures," and the full outstanding balance of the loan becomes due.

  Explanation: October 1st, 2025, is the maturity date, signifying when the business owner's obligation to repay the loan principal and any remaining interest is legally due.

Mature-Minor Doctrine

The mature-minor doctrine is a legal principle, recognized in some jurisdictions, that allows an adolescent who has not yet reached the age of legal majority (typically 18) to make certain decisions about their own health and welfare without parental consent. For this doctrine to apply, the minor must demonstrate sufficient maturity, understanding, and the ability to articulate reasoned preferences regarding the matter at hand.

• Example 1: Medical Treatment Choice

  A 16-year-old patient diagnosed with a chronic illness is presented with two different treatment plans by their doctors. The teenager thoroughly researches both options, discusses them with medical professionals, and clearly explains their understanding of the potential benefits, risks, and long-term implications of each. If a state recognizes the mature-minor doctrine, the court might allow the teenager to choose their preferred treatment plan, even if their parents disagree, because they have demonstrated the capacity to make a reasoned decision.

  Explanation: The teenager's ability to understand complex medical information and articulate a well-reasoned preference illustrates the "mature minor" aspect, potentially allowing them to make a health decision independently.

• Example 2: Mental Health Counseling

  A 15-year-old experiencing significant anxiety wishes to seek therapy but is hesitant to involve their parents due to fear of judgment. In a state that applies the mature-minor doctrine to mental health services, the therapist might assess the minor's understanding of their condition, the purpose of therapy, and their ability to consent to treatment. If the minor demonstrates sufficient maturity and understanding, they might be allowed to consent to counseling sessions without parental permission.

  Explanation: The doctrine empowers the minor to make decisions about their own welfare (mental health) if they can show they are mature enough to understand the implications of their choice.

• Example 3: Reproductive Health Decisions

  A 17-year-old seeks information and access to contraception from a healthcare provider. In jurisdictions where the mature-minor doctrine is applied to reproductive health, the provider might assess whether the teenager understands the nature of contraception, its health implications, and their ability to make an informed decision about their own body and future. If deemed a "mature minor," they could potentially receive contraception without parental consent.

  Explanation: This scenario highlights the application of the doctrine to personal health and welfare decisions, particularly in areas where a minor's autonomy is considered important if they possess the requisite maturity.