What is Indiana's age of majority? At what age does parent's financial responsibility cease?

Full question:

If a teenager fails school/is recommended to leave traditional school and attend GED program, and in addition, refuses to follow household rules, can the parent(s) assert the teen is an adult at age 18 and have the teen move from the house? Does parental responsibility legally end at 18?

  • Category: Minors
  • Date:
  • State: Indiana

Answer:

AGE OF MAJORITY.

The legal language for becoming an adult is "age of majority." An adult is a person who has attained the age of majority. The age of majority in Indiana is 18, with the following exceptions; if a person who is at least 17 marries or joins the military, both of which require permission from the parent(s) or legal guardian.

The age of majority is the legally defined age at which a person is considered an adult, with all the attendant rights and responsibilities of adulthood. The age of majority is defined by state laws, which vary by state, but is 18 in most states. Rights acquired upon reaching the age of majority include the rights to vote and consent to marriage, among others. However, the right to vote is 18 nationwide under the 26th Amendment to the Constitution, regardless of the state laws.

The age of majority is the age at which one legally becomes an adult and gains full legal rights, responsibilities, and obligations. It is the age at which a person becomes fully liable for their own actions, such as contractual obligations or liability for negligence. The age of majority may be relevant in matters, among others, such as guardianships, defining the head of households, legal standing to bring lawsuits, foster care, alcohol purchases, emancipation, licensing, and marriage.

CESSATION OF PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY.
As a general rule among the states, a parental duty of support to a child ceases when the child reaches the age of majority.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Once a teenager turns 18, they are legally considered an adult and parents no longer have the same level of control over them. While parents can still offer guidance and support, they cannot enforce household rules in the same way they could when the child was a minor. This means that an 18-year-old has the right to make their own decisions, including where to live, as long as they are not violating any laws.