Maryland Legal Ages Laws
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed February 13, 2023
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State laws dictate what age individuals must be to get married, enter contracts, take out student loans, or make other legal decisions. Those under the "age of majority," or minors, are considered incapable of making such decisions in the eyes of the law.
The state of Maryland recognizes the age of majority as age 18. When a minor reaches age 18, they are considered an adult thereafter. State laws also govern a minor's ability to become emancipated from their parents or legal guardians, give consent for medical treatment, purchase and consume alcohol, and other legal matters.
This article provides a brief overview of the legal age statutes in the state of Maryland.
Maryland Age Statutes: At a Glance
Legal ages in Maryland are highlighted in the chart below. See FindLaw's Emancipation of Minors section for additional articles and resources.
Age of Majority |
18 (Md. Code § 1-401) |
---|---|
Eligibility for Emancipation |
N/A |
Contracts by Minors |
|
Minors' Ability to Sue |
By guardian, next friend, or parent (Md. R. Civ. P. Cir. Ct. 2-202) |
Minors' Consent to Medical Treatment |
|
Legal Age for Alcohol and Tobacco/E-cigarette Purchase and/or Consumption |
21 (Md. Code § 1-101 and Md. Code, Crim. Law § 10-108) |
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.
Georgia 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
Questions About Legal Ages Laws? Talk to a Maryland Attorney
Although we know that the typical age of majority is 18, the Maryland age laws give us clarification about minors' rights in areas such as emancipation, marriage, and health care consent. If you are a minor interested in understanding how to get emancipation, married, or need assistance with medical consent or the right to sue, then you should talk to a local family law attorney in Maryland.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- 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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