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 Rhode Island, the age of majority is 18, at which point individuals are considered adults for most legal purposes and are no longer under the control of their parents or guardians. Until reaching this age, minors are generally unable to make binding legal decisions, such as entering into contracts, and their parents or guardians typically make decisions regarding their living situation, marriage, and employment. However, Rhode Island law does provide for the possibility of minor emancipation, which allows a minor to gain adult status before reaching the age of majority. Emancipation can be granted if the court determines it is in the best interest of the minor, taking into account factors such as the minor's maturity and ability to handle adult responsibilities. The process typically involves a minor petitioning the court, and it is often available to those who are at least 16 years old. Once emancipated, a minor can make legal decisions on their own behalf and is no longer under the control of their parents or guardians.