State Legal Age Laws: Overview
Those who are 18 and older are considered adults in the eyes of the law, but many states also set age limits for minors with respect to certain legal obligations and privileges. For instance, minors in most states may consent to certain medical treatments or petition the court for emancipation from one's parents. In general, state laws identify certain legal processes that minors may encounter and have made exceptions to accommodate them.
Summary of Missouri Legal Age Laws
Missouri statute does not specify age limits below the age of majority (18), but it does offer some limited exceptions for minors. For instance, a minor may consent to medical treatment if married or if the treatment is for pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, or substance abuse. Additionally, a married minor (if the spouse is 18 or older) may be included in the joint ownership of real estate.
The state does not have a formal procedure for the emancipation of minors, in which a minor is declared an "adult" in the eyes of the law (and thus eligible for all of the privileges and responsibilities of adulthood). But Missouri does allow for the emancipation of minors by court order in some limited circumstances, which include:
Learn more about Missouri's legal age laws in the following table and corresponding links to related topics. See FindLaw's Emancipation of Minors section for additional articles.
| Age of Majority | 18 (common law) |
| Eligibility for Emancipation | If married, minor may convey or encumber real estate if spouse is of age (§442.040) |
| Contracts by Minors | May be ratified after 18 (§431.060); for real property, may be disaffirmed within 2 years (§442.080) |
| Minors' Ability to Sue | By guardian, next friend, or court appointed (CR §52.02) |
| Minors' Consent to Medical Treatment | Minor may consent if: married; treatment is for pregnancy, excluding abortion; venereal disease, drug or substance abuse |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
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Missouri Legal Age Laws: Related Resources
Learn More About Missouri Legal Ages Laws from an Attorney
Whether you want to know more about emancipation laws, a minor's ability to enter into a business contract, or even get married, you'll want to speak with a Missouri legal expert to get the most up-to-date information. Doing a web search for the laws will only get you so far. If you have more complicated questions or need legal representation, talk to a family law attorney in Missouri today.
