Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed March 26, 2018
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A person 18 years of age and older is considered an adult in Missouri. Those under 18, called "minors," have few legal obligations or privileges and are restricted in the medical decisions they can make for themselves. Missouri emancipation laws, such as they are, permit a minor to petition the court to be granted the rights and responsibilities of an adult. There are no formal laws outlining the process or grounds for emancipation in Missouri, but emancipation is still possible under the common law.
Without any petition for emancipation minors in Missouri may still consent to medical treatment without parental consent for medical issues relating to pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, or substance abuse. A married minor may be included in the joint ownership of real estate. There is no formal procedure for emancipation in Missouri, but there are circumstances that typically result in emancipation and there are common effects that result from emancipation.
| Requirements for Emancipation | In Missouri a minor can become emancipated in one of three ways:
Emancipation is typically not available to minors under the age of sixteen. As a practical matter, minors under the age of sixteen cannot seek employment and are highly unlikely to be able to support themselves, particularly since they may not support themselves with income derived from criminal activity. |
| Effects of Emancipation for the Minor | An emancipated minor:
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| Effects of Emancipation for the Parents | Parents of emancipated minors:
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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.
If you have additional questions about emancipation laws in Missouri, click on the links below for more information:
Missouri emancipation laws are confusing and there's little guidance available. Fortunately, you can contact an experienced family law lawyer in Missouri to learn more about Missouri emancipation laws and get help with the emancipation process.
Contact a qualified attorney.
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