A contract is a legally binding agreement between two or more parties that establishes their terms and obligations. However, what happens when a minor signs a contract? Are they legally bound by its terms?

The answer is not straightforward and depends on several factors, including the type of contract, the age of the minor, and the jurisdiction`s laws.

In most jurisdictions, minors are not legally capable of entering into contracts. The legal age of majority varies from state to state, but in general, it is 18 years old. This means that a contract signed by a minor is generally considered voidable, which means it can be canceled or voided at the minor`s discretion.

However, some contracts are exceptions to this rule. For example, contracts for necessities such as food, shelter, and medical care are generally enforceable, regardless of the minor`s age. This is because minors are not exempt from the basic needs of life, and their lack of capacity to contract should not prevent them from obtaining necessary goods or services.

Another exception is contracts for employment. Many states allow minors to enter into employment contracts, as long as certain conditions are met, such as obtaining parental consent, limiting working hours, and complying with minimum wage laws.

In some cases, a minor may also be held liable for a contract if they misrepresent their age or engage in fraudulent behavior to induce the other party to enter into the agreement. This is because minors who commit fraud are not protected by the law and can be held responsible for their actions.

Overall, it is best to avoid entering into contracts with minors, as they may not have the legal capacity to bind themselves to its terms. If you must enter into a contract with a minor, it is advisable to seek legal advice beforehand to ensure that the agreement is valid and enforceable.