Minor children (under the age of 18) are generally subject to the control and decision-making of their parents or legal guardians until they reach the age of majority (generally 18-19). This means that minor children are not able to override the decisions of their parents on life matters such as where the child lives, whether the child can leave the house on Friday night, whether the child can get married, and whether the child can work outside the home. And the law does not consider minor children able to enter into legally enforceable contracts.

But many states allow for a minor child to become emancipated and assume the responsibilities of adulthood under limited circumstances—usually beginning at age 16-17. Minor emancipation laws vary from state to state, and the process is usually initiated by filing a lawsuit “to remove the disabilities of minority.”

In Nevada, as in most states, minor children under the age of 18 are under the legal control of their parents or guardians. This means that decisions about their residence, social activities, marriage, and employment are typically made by their parents or guardians. Minors are also generally unable to enter into legally binding contracts. However, Nevada law does provide a mechanism for minors to become emancipated, which grants them the legal status of adults for certain purposes. Emancipation in Nevada can occur through marriage, military service, or by court order. To be emancipated by court order, a minor typically must be at least 16 years old and able to demonstrate financial independence and maturity. The process involves filing a petition with the court, and the court must find that emancipation is in the best interest of the minor. Once emancipated, a minor can make legal decisions for themselves and is no longer under the control of their parents or guardians.