Minor children (under the age of 18) are generally subject to the control and decision-making of their parents or legal guardians until they reach the age of majority (generally 18-19). This means that minor children are not able to override the decisions of their parents on life matters such as where the child lives, whether the child can leave the house on Friday night, whether the child can get married, and whether the child can work outside the home. And the law does not consider minor children able to enter into legally enforceable contracts.

But many states allow for a minor child to become emancipated and assume the responsibilities of adulthood under limited circumstances—usually beginning at age 16-17. Minor emancipation laws vary from state to state, and the process is usually initiated by filing a lawsuit “to remove the disabilities of minority.”

In Arizona, the age of majority is 18, at which point individuals are considered adults for most legal purposes. Until reaching this age, minors are under the legal authority of their parents or guardians, who make decisions regarding living arrangements, social activities, marriage, and employment. Minors cannot legally enter into binding contracts. However, Arizona law does provide a mechanism for minors to become emancipated, which grants them adult status for certain purposes. Emancipation in Arizona can occur through a court order, marriage, or military service. To be eligible for emancipation by court order, a minor must be at least 16 years old, a resident of Arizona, financially self-sufficient, and able to manage their own affairs. The minor must file a petition with the court and demonstrate that emancipation is in their best interest. If emancipated, the minor can enter into contracts, sue and be sued, and make decisions about their own welfare, but they may still be subject to certain age-based restrictions, such as those related to alcohol consumption and voting.