Minors

In one sentence

People under the legal age of adulthood who generally cannot be bound by contracts.

Plain English

In contract law, a minor is someone who hasn't yet reached the age of majority (usually 18 in the US). Minors have limited power to enter binding contracts because the law assumes they lack the maturity and judgment to make serious legal commitments. A minor can usually cancel (or "disaffirm") a contract they've signed, and the law will protect them even if an adult would be stuck with the deal. There are some exceptions—like contracts for necessities such as food or medical care—where minors can be held to their agreements.

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Example

A 16-year-old signs a contract to buy a car on credit. Later, she changes her mind and returns the car. Because she's a minor, she can usually back out of the contract, even though an adult buyer couldn't.

Used in a sentence

“The court ruled that minors cannot be held to the terms of that video game subscription service.”

Related terms

Mutual Consent

Both parties freely agree to the same terms of a contract without pressure or misunderstanding.

Unenforceable

A contract or clause that a court will not force either party to follow, even though it appears valid.

Implied Contract

A contract where the parties' intent to be bound is shown by conduct rather than explicit words.

Mental Incapacity

Lacking the mental ability to understand a contract's nature, terms, or consequences.

Intoxication

Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs in a way that impairs judgment and contract capacity.

Offer

A proposal to enter into a binding agreement on specific terms.

Acceptance

Agreeing to the exact terms of an offer, creating a binding contract.

Consideration

Something of value exchanged by each party to make a contract binding.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.