Connecticut Legal Ages Laws
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed December 15, 2022
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A minor is anyone under the age of majority. Anyone under the age of majority is not considered an adult. The age of majority in the state of Connecticut is 18 years old. Upon reaching the age of majority, or becoming emancipated from one's parents, an individual is an adult in the eyes of the law. Legally speaking, an adult is an individual subject to all privileges and responsibilities that come with adulthood.
For instance, adults may participate in the lottery, but they also may be sued in a court of law or drafted into the military. An emancipated minor is a minor who has been deemed by the court to have the means and maturity to live apart from their parents or legal guardians. They are also deemed capable of supporting and taking care of themselves. Children seeking emancipation must have a place to live and a legal source of income.
While minors have limited privileges and responsibilities, they still need to access the law every once in a while. State legal age laws address these needs, such as the ability to consent to and access birth control or drug treatments, or to petition the court for emancipation.
This article provides a brief overview of legal age statutes in the state of Connecticut.
Connecticut Age Statutes: At a Glance
The Connecticut General Statutes sections regarding Connecticut laws setting legal ages for minors are listed in the chart below. You can also visit FindLaw's Family Law section for additional articles and information on this topic.
Age of Majority |
Under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 1-1d, the age of majority is 18. |
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Eligibility for Emancipation |
Under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 46b-150, any minor that is 16 years of age or older is eligible for emancipation. |
Contracts by Minors |
Under the state's common law, minors' contracts are voidable at the option of the minor or unenforceable against them unless ratified by the minor after attaining the age of majority. |
Minors' Ability to Sue |
Under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 46b-150d, anyone that is 18 or older or who has been emancipated may file a lawsuit. Under the same statute, a guardian or next friend can file a lawsuit on a minor's behalf. |
Minors' Consent to Medical Treatment |
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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.
Legal Responsibilities of Minors and Parents
There is a legal process by which a minor can become an adult in the eyes of the law, referred to as the emancipation of a minor. While Connecticut sets the standard age of majority at 18, emancipation can allow a minor to be responsible for their own well-being and make all their own decisions regarding school, healthcare, and other matters. Until they are emancipated or turn 18, juveniles normally will be treated as juveniles in criminal cases, including age and status offenses.
Connecticut Legal Ages Laws: Related Resources
- Official State Codes — Links to the official online statutes (laws) in all 50 states and D.C.
- Juveniles and Age ("Status") Offenses
- Juvenile Justice: Background
Talk to an Attorney About Your Legal Age Questions
Whether you are a minor considering emancipation from your parents or have age-related questions about other legal processes, talking to an attorney is the best way to find answers to all your questions.
Get started today by reaching out to a Connecticut family law attorney in your area.
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- Family law matters are often complex and require a lawyer
- Lawyers can protect your rights and seek the best outcome
Get tailored family law advice and ask a lawyer questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.
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