Legal Definitions - nonage

Nonage refers to the legal status of being a minor, meaning a person has not yet reached the age of majority as defined by law. During nonage, individuals typically lack the full legal capacity to enter into certain contracts, make independent legal decisions, or exercise all rights and responsibilities afforded to adults.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of nonage:

• Example 1: Contractual Capacity

  Sarah, who is 16 years old, attempts to sign a lease agreement for her own apartment. The landlord informs her that she cannot legally enter into such a contract because she is still in her nonage. In most jurisdictions, individuals must be at least 18 years old to sign a binding lease agreement, meaning Sarah lacks the legal capacity to do so until she reaches the age of majority.

• Example 2: Managing Inherited Assets

  After her grandmother passed away, eight-year-old Emily inherited a significant sum of money. Because Emily is in her nonage, she cannot legally manage these funds herself. Instead, the court appoints a guardian or trustee to oversee the inheritance until Emily reaches the age of majority, ensuring the assets are protected and managed responsibly on her behalf.

• Example 3: Civic Rights and Responsibilities

  Mark is 17 years old and very interested in politics. He wants to vote in the upcoming national election. However, because he is still in his nonage, he is legally prohibited from casting a ballot. The right to vote in federal elections is typically reserved for citizens who have reached the age of majority, which is 18 years old in the United States.