Virginia Legal Ages Laws

By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed January 24, 2023

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.

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 Virginia recognizes the age of majority as age 18. When a minor reaches age 18, they are considered an adult in the state thereafter. State laws also govern a minor's ability to become emancipated from their parents or legal guardians, give consent for medical treatment, and other legal matters.

This article provides a brief overview of legal age statutes in the state of Virginia.

Virginia Age Statutes: At a Glance

Virginia's legal age laws are summarized in the following chart. See FindLaw's Emancipation of Minors section for additional articles and resources.

Age of Majority

18 (Va. Code § 1-203)

Eligibility for Emancipation

By judicial petition at age 16 (Va. Code § 16.1-331 et seq.)

Contracts by Minors
  • Voidable subject to making restitution when possible with various exceptions for necessities (common law)
  • Minors may take out loans for the purpose of higher education (Va. Code § 8.01-278(B))
  • A minor who is at least 15 years old may contract for life insurance for their own benefit or for the benefit of their kindred, spouse, brothers, or sisters (Va. Code § 38.2-3105)

Minors' Ability to Sue

Minors may sue with the help of their parent or next friend or are represented by a guardian ad litem (Va. Code § 8.01-8)

Minors' Consent to Medical Treatment
  • Minors may consent to treatment for venereal disease, birth control, pregnancy, substance abuse, or mental illness; married minors may consent to any treatment (Va. Code § 54.1-2969 (E))
  • Medical professionals may perform a physical evidence recovery kit examination for a person who is believed to be a victim of a sexual assault (Va. Code § 54.1-2970.1)

Legal Age for Alcohol, Tobacco, E-cigarette, Marijuana Purchase and/or Consumption

 21 (Va. Code § 4.1-305(C))

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

Virginia has a legal process, known as the emancipation of a minor, by which a minor can become an adult in the eyes of the law. Although Virginia's default age of majority is 18, emancipation allows a minor to be responsible for their own well-being and make all of their own major life decisions, including school, healthcare, and other matters. Until they are emancipated or turn 18, juveniles will generally be treated as such in criminal cases, including age and status offenses.

Learn More About Virginia Legal Ages Laws by Speaking to a Lawyer

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 of your questions.

Get started by contacting a Virginia family law attorney in your area to schedule a consultation.

Was this helpful?

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.

 

If you need an attorney, find one right now.

Helpful Links

Popular Directory Searches