As a young adult, you may be curious about entering into contracts and the legal implications surrounding them. However, as a minor under the age of 18, you may be wondering if you are legally capable of entering into contracts. In this article, we will explore the question: can you enter into a contract under 18?
In general, minors are not legally capable of entering into contracts. In most jurisdictions, the age of majority is 18, which means that until you reach that age, you are considered a minor. As a result, you lack the legal capacity to enter into a contract and are not bound by any contracts you may make.
However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. In some cases, minors are allowed to enter into contracts. Keep in mind that these exceptions are limited and apply only to certain types of contracts.
One exception is contracts for necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter. If a minor enters into a contract for a necessity, they may be bound by it. This means that they would be required to pay for the goods or services they received, even if they were under 18 at the time.
Another exception is contracts for employment. Minors are allowed to enter into contracts for work, but there are limitations in place to protect them from exploitation. In some jurisdictions, minors are required to obtain a work permit or have their parents’ permission before entering into an employment contract.
In addition, there are some states in which minors can enter into contracts for certain educational and medical services. In these cases, the minor’s parents or guardians may also be required to sign the contract.
It is important to note that even if a minor is allowed to enter into a contract, the contract may be voidable. This means that the minor has the right to enforce the contract or void it, depending on their decision. In some cases, the minor may not be held liable for any damages resulting from a voided contract.
In conclusion, as a minor under 18, you generally lack the legal capacity to enter into contracts. However, there are exceptions to this rule, including contracts for necessities, employment, and certain educational or medical services. If you have any doubts or questions about entering into a contract, it is always best to seek legal advice.
