When a minor enters into a contract, it is often assumed that they lack the legal capacity to enter into such a binding agreement. This is because minors are generally considered to be too young to understand the full consequences of their actions and to fully grasp the terms of a contract.
As a result, there are special rules that apply to contracts entered into by minors. If a minor voids a contract, it means that they are essentially cancelling the agreement and are no longer bound by its terms. But what exactly happens when a minor voids a contract?
First and foremost, it is important to note that a minor can only void a contract during their minority (i.e. before they turn 18 or the age of majority in their jurisdiction). Once they reach the age of majority, they are considered to have ratified the contract and are bound by its terms.
If a minor does decide to void a contract, the consequences can vary depending on the type of contract and the specific circumstances of the case. In general, however, the result is that the minor is not responsible for fulfilling their obligations under the contract and cannot be sued for breach of contract.
For example, let`s say that a 16-year-old signs a contract to buy a car from a dealership. A few days later, the minor changes their mind and decides they don`t want the car after all. If the minor voids the contract, they will not be obligated to buy the car and the dealership cannot force them to do so.
However, there are some exceptions to this general rule. In some cases, a minor may be responsible for paying for goods or services they received before voiding the contract. This is known as the “doctrine of necessaries” and applies when the minor received goods or services that were essential to their wellbeing (such as food, clothing, or medical care).
Additionally, minors can be held liable for intentional torts (such as fraud or intentional harm) even when they void a contract. So if a minor intentionally misled someone into signing a contract, they could still be held liable for any resulting damages.
Overall, the rules surrounding minors and contracts can be complex and vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case. If you are unsure about your rights and responsibilities under a contract, it is always best to seek the advice of a legal professional who can guide you through the process.