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What is the legal status of a minor married at 16 in Michigan?

What is the legal status of a minor married at 16 in Michigan?

Q: Is a married minor considered an adult?

Yes, in Michigan, a minor who marries is treated as an adult. According to MCLS § 551.251, once married, they assume the same rights and responsibilities as an adult. This includes legal capacity to enter contracts and make independent decisions.

Q: What happens legally when you marry someone with a child?

When you marry someone with a child, you do not automatically gain legal rights or responsibilities for that child. In Michigan, stepparents can become involved in the child’s life, but legal custody and support issues typically require separate legal actions. It's best to seek legal advice for specific circumstances.

Q: Can your parents claim you if you get married?

In Michigan, if you marry as a minor, you are released from parental control and are considered legally independent. This means your parents cannot claim you in the same way they could if you were unmarried. However, it's important to understand that responsibilities may still exist in certain contexts.

Full question:

I am a minor (16 years old). Last month I got married to my husband with the consent of my parents. If a minor marries at the age of 16 years, what legal status does the minor have in the state of Michigan?

Category: Marriage
Subcategory: Minor
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Michigan

Answer:

In Michigan, the legal age to marry is 18. However, individuals aged 16 or 17 can marry with written consent from one parent or a legal guardian. According to Michigan law (MCLS § 551.103), minors must provide proof of age, such as a birth certificate, when applying for a marriage license.

Once a minor marries, they are released from parental control and assume the same rights, responsibilities, and liabilities as an adult. This is outlined in MCLS § 551.251, which states that a minor who marries is treated as if they were of legal age at the time of marriage.

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

Can you move out at 16 if you get married?

In Michigan, if a minor marries at 16 with parental consent, they are considered an adult for legal purposes. This means they can make decisions about living arrangements, including moving out. However, it's advisable to consult with a legal professional to understand all implications of marriage at a young age.