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 California, the age of majority is 18, at which point individuals are considered adults with the ability to make their own legal decisions. Until reaching this age, minors are under the legal authority of their parents or guardians, who make decisions regarding their residence, social activities, marriage, and employment. Minors cannot legally enter into binding contracts. However, California does provide a legal process for emancipation, which allows a minor, typically starting at age 14, to gain adult status before reaching the age of majority. Emancipation can be granted if the court finds it is in the minor's best interest and the minor is self-supporting and living independently. Emancipated minors can enter into contracts, make medical decisions, and have other adult responsibilities and rights. The process involves filing a petition with the court, and it may require parental consent or a showing that emancipation is in the minor's best interest despite parental objection.