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 Iowa, 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 control and decision-making authority of their parents or legal guardians. This includes decisions about living arrangements, social activities, marriage, and employment. Minors in Iowa cannot legally enter into most contracts, as they are not considered to have the capacity to understand and agree to the terms. However, Iowa does have laws that allow for the emancipation of minors, which can occur under certain conditions. Emancipation grants a minor many of the rights and responsibilities of adulthood. Typically, emancipation in Iowa can be pursued by a minor who is at least 16 years old through a legal process that involves petitioning the court. The court will consider various factors, including the minor's ability to support themselves financially and the minor's maturity level, before granting emancipation.