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 Massachusetts, the age of majority is 18, at which point individuals are considered adults for most legal purposes. Until reaching this age, minors are typically under the control of their parents or legal guardians. Parents have the authority to make decisions about their children's residence, social activities, marriage, and employment. Minors in Massachusetts generally cannot enter into legally binding contracts, with certain exceptions for necessities. However, Massachusetts does provide a legal mechanism for minors to become emancipated, which grants them adult status for certain purposes. Emancipation can occur through marriage, military service, or by a court order. To be emancipated by a court order, a minor typically must be at least 16 years old and able to show that they can handle their own affairs and support themselves financially. The process involves filing a petition with the court, and the court must find that emancipation is in the best interest of the minor. Once emancipated, a minor has the legal capacity to make decisions and enter into contracts as an adult would.