Legal Definitions - Minor

A minor refers to an individual who has not yet reached the legally defined "age of majority." In most jurisdictions, this age is set at 18 years old. Until they reach this age, minors are generally considered to be under the legal care and responsibility of a parent or guardian, unless they have been legally emancipated. Due to their age, minors are subject to different laws and legal protections compared to adults across various aspects of the law.

• Contractual Agreements
  Example: A 17-year-old high school student attempts to sign a lease agreement for an apartment to live independently.
  Explanation: This illustrates the concept of a minor because, in most places, individuals under the age of majority lack the full legal capacity to enter into binding contracts. The landlord would likely require a parent or guardian to co-sign the lease, or refuse the agreement entirely, recognizing the minor's limited legal standing in such transactions.

• Medical Consent
  Example: A 14-year-old needs to undergo a non-emergency surgical procedure.
  Explanation: This demonstrates the legal status of a minor because, for most medical treatments, a minor cannot legally provide consent for themselves. Instead, the consent of a parent or legal guardian is typically required before medical professionals can proceed, reflecting the guardian's responsibility for the minor's well-being.

• Property Ownership and Transfer
  Example: A grandparent wants to gift a substantial sum of money or a piece of real estate directly to their 10-year-old grandchild.
  Explanation: This highlights the distinct legal treatment of minors regarding property. While a minor can own property, they generally cannot manage or transfer it independently. To protect the minor's assets, the gift would typically be placed into a trust or a custodial account managed by an adult until the grandchild reaches the age of majority, showcasing the legal safeguards in place for minors.