Who Is a Minor in Florida?
A minor is a person under the age of 18. Until reaching the age of majority, a minor has limited legal capacity — the law treats minors differently in contracts, property, litigation, and many other areas to protect them from decisions they are not yet considered able to make on their own.
Contracts and Capacity
Most contracts entered into by a minor are voidable by the minor — the minor can generally disaffirm the agreement before, or shortly after, turning 18. There are exceptions for contracts for necessaries (such as food, shelter, and medical care) and for certain statutory obligations. This rule means businesses contract with minors at their own risk.
Property, Settlements, and Guardianship
- A minor generally cannot hold or convey title to significant property without a court-supervised arrangement
- Under § 744.387, Florida Statutes, a legal settlement on behalf of a minor above a statutory threshold requires court approval, and larger sums require a guardian of the property
- A guardian or, in many families, a custodian under the Florida Uniform Transfers to Minors Act manages a minor's assets
Related Terms
- Guardian — Who manages a minor's affairs or property
- Voidable Contract — The status of most contracts with a minor
Barnes Walker
Barnes Walker's attorneys handle guardianship of minors, minor's settlements, and related estate and litigation matters in Manatee and Sarasota counties. Request a legal inquiry for assistance.
Florida Law Reference
Fla. Stat. § 744.387
Governs settlement of claims on behalf of minors, requiring court approval above statutory thresholds and appointment of a guardian of the property to manage larger recoveries.
Reviewed by the attorneys at Barnes Walker, Goethe, Shea & Robinson, PLLC