Washington Legal Ages Laws
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed January 24, 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 Washington recognizes the age of majority as 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, and other legal matters.
This article provides a brief overview of the legal age statutes in the state of Washington.
Summary of Washington's Legal Age Laws
A list of Washington's legal age laws can be found in the table below.
Age of Majority |
18 (R.C.W. § 26.28.010) |
---|---|
Eligibility for Emancipation |
By judicial petition at age 16 (R.C.W. § 13.64.020 et seq.) |
Contracts by Minors |
|
Minors' Ability to Sue |
By guardian; if 14 or over may apply himself for court-appointed guardian; if under 14 application must be made to court through a relative or friend (R.C.W. § 4.08.050) |
Minors' Consent to Medical Treatment |
|
Legal Age for Alcohol, Tobacco, or E-cigarette Purchase and/or Consumption |
21 (R.C.W. § 66.44.270) |
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.
Research the Law
- Washington Law
- Official State Codes -- Links to the official online statutes (laws) in all 50 states and D.C.
Washington Legal Ages Laws: Related Resources
Questions About Legal Age Laws? Contact a Washington Family Attorney Today
Many aspects of family life, including the ability to become emancipated from one's parents, have certain age restrictions and age-related regulations. Knowing how the law applies to your particular situation will help you make the right choices.
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