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 Washington State, 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, who make decisions regarding their residence, social activities, marriage, and employment. Minors are also generally unable to enter into legally binding contracts. However, Washington does provide a legal process for emancipation, which allows a minor, usually starting at age 16, to gain the legal status of an adult. To become emancipated, a minor must petition the court and demonstrate the ability to manage their own financial affairs and to live independently from their parents. The court will consider the best interests of the minor when deciding whether to grant the petition for emancipation. Once emancipated, the minor can make legal decisions on their own behalf, including entering into contracts, choosing where to live, and making employment decisions.