By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed December 13, 2022
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
The age of majority is 18 in nearly every U.S. state. The age of majority is the point when individuals are considered adults in the eyes of the law and subject to all associated rights and responsibilities.
State laws determine limits and rules for children under 18 who need access to certain legal processes. For instance, in most states, children as young as 16 who are able to prove they can live apart from their parents may independently seek to be "emancipated" from their parents. Emancipated minors have the legal rights and responsibilities of adults.
State laws also determine the age when a child can consent to certain medical treatments, enter into legal contracts, and sue in a court of law.
As in most states, the age of majority in Arkansas is 18. However, a child as young as 16 may petition a court for emancipation. Minors may file a lawsuit with the assistance of a next friend or guardian.
Additional provisions of Arkansas laws setting legal ages for minors are listed in the table below.
Age of Majority |
|
|---|---|
Eligibility for Emancipation |
|
Contracts by Minors |
|
Minors' Ability to Sue |
|
Minors' Consent to Medical Treatment |
|
Note: State laws may change at any time, usually through the enactment of new statutes but sometimes through higher court decisions or by other means. Be sure to contact an Arkansas family law attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
The relevant statute in Arkansas allows for the "removal of disability of a minor," or emancipation, for those 16 and older. But in order to qualify, you must be able to demonstrate the ability to care for yourself as an adult would. Examples of what a court will require that you demonstrate are that you can support yourself financially, that you are mature enough to live independently, and that it would be in your best interest.
As state laws are constantly changing, it's important to contact an attorney or conduct your own research to verify the laws of your state.
Consider reviewing the following resources for more information about laws in Arkansas, including those related to age:
Also consider reviewing the following resources for more information about laws and legal issues related to age:
If you are under 18 and want to be emancipated or need other assistance with age laws, then you should talk to an experienced family law attorney. An attorney can help you get started with the emancipation process or can give you assistance regarding your rights to sue or to consent to medical treatment.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored family law advice and ask a lawyer questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.
Learn more about FindLaw’s newsletters, including our terms of use and privacy policy.