By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last updated February 14, 2023
State laws recognize the capacity of individuals to enter into marriage or otherwise make legal decisions, which includes both mental capacity and maturity. Those under the "age of majority," or "minors," are considered incapable of such legal decisions. Georgia recognizes age 18 as the age of majority, the age at which state residents are legally considered adults, as do most other states. State laws also govern a minor's eligibility to become emancipation, give consent to medical treatment, and other legal matters.
This article provides a brief overview of the legal age statutes in Georgia.
The specifics of Georgia's legal age laws are listed in the following table and in the descriptive summary below. See FindLaw's Emancipation of Minors section for additional articles and resources.
Age of Majority |
18 (Ga. Code Ann. § 39-1-1) |
|---|---|
Eligibility for Emancipation |
|
Contracts by Minors |
Generally voidable; however, if benefits continue after the minor turns age 18, the contract is valid (Ga. Code Ann. § 13-3-20) |
Minors' Ability to Sue |
A suit started by the infant alone is not void, but a guardian or next friend must be appointed before the verdict (Ga. Code Ann. § 9-2-28) |
Minors' Consent to Medical Treatment |
|
Legal Age for Alcohol and Tobacco/E-cigarette Purchase and/or Consumption |
21 (Ga. Code Ann. § 3-3-23.1 and § 16-12-171(a)(1)(A)) |
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.
Whether you are looking to file a lawsuit, get emancipated, or get certain types of healthcare, you'll want to know the law in Georgia and how it may impact your ability to do any of those things. To learn more about the rights and obligations you have as both a young person and an adult, you should speak with a Georgia family law attorney.
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