Age of Majority in Michigan: A Comprehensive Guide (2023 Update)

Understanding the Legal Age of Majority in Michigan

In the state of Michigan, the legal age of majority, also known as the age of adulthood, is 18. This means that individuals who have reached the age of 18 are considered legally responsible for their own actions and decisions, and they have the same rights and privileges as adults.

Changes to the Age of Majority in Michigan

Prior to 1873, the age of majority in Michigan was 21. However, in 1873, the state legislature passed a law lowering the age of majority to 18. This change was made in response to the growing number of young people who were serving in the military and working in factories.

Exceptions to the Age of Majority

There are a few exceptions to the general rule that the age of majority in Michigan is 18. These exceptions include:

• Marriage: Individuals who are 16 or 17 years old can marry with the consent of their parents or guardians.
• Military service: Individuals who are 17 years old can join the military with the consent of their parents or guardians.
• Emancipation: Individuals who are under the age of 18 can be emancipated by a court order. This means that they are legally independent from their parents or guardians.

Rights and Responsibilities of Adults in Michigan

Individuals who have reached the age of majority in Michigan have the following rights and responsibilities:

• Vote: Adults can register to vote and participate in elections.
• Serve on a jury: Adults can be summoned to serve on a jury.
• Enter into contracts: Adults can enter into legally binding contracts.
• Own property: Adults can own and manage property.
• File lawsuits: Adults can file lawsuits in their own name.
• Be held legally responsible for their actions: Adults are responsible for the consequences of their own actions, both civil and criminal.

Legal Protections for Minors in Michigan

While individuals under the age of 18 are not considered adults in Michigan, they are still entitled to certain legal protections. These protections include:

• Parental consent: Minors need the consent of their parents or guardians to make certain decisions, such as getting married, joining the military, or getting a tattoo.
• Juvenile court: Minors who are accused of crimes are tried in juvenile court, which is a separate court system from the adult criminal court system.
• Child abuse and neglect laws: Minors are protected from child abuse and neglect by state law.

Age of Majority in Other States

The age of majority varies from state to state. In most states, the age of majority is 18, but there are a few states where the age of majority is 19 or 21. The following table shows the age of majority in each state:

Conclusion

The age of majority in Michigan is 18. This means that individuals who have reached the age of 18 are considered legally responsible for their own actions and decisions, and they have the same rights and privileges as adults. There are a few exceptions to the general rule that the age of majority in Michigan is 18, including marriage, military service, and emancipation.