History & Society
minor
law
Also known as: age of minority, infant
minor, person below the legal age of majority or adulthood. The age of majority varies in different countries, and even in different jurisdictions within a country. It also differs with the type of activity concerned, such as marrying, purchasing alcohol, or driving an automobile. Twenty-one years is a common division between minors and adults. The concept of minority rests on the assumption that children are incapable of self-management. A minor also has special protection against strangers and irresponsible parents. A minor in most countries can acquire property but cannot sell it; and his acquisitions are controlled by his parents, subject ...(100 of 216 words)