What was the age of majority in 1970 in Ohio?

Q: When did Ohio change the age of majority?

Ohio changed the age of majority from twenty-one to eighteen years on January 1, 1974. This change was enacted through a statutory amendment, allowing those aged eighteen and older to be considered adults for legal purposes.

Q: Can a minor in Ohio enter into a contract?

In Ohio, a minor (someone under eighteen) generally cannot enter into contracts that are legally binding. However, there are exceptions for certain contracts, such as those for necessities like food or shelter. Once an individual turns eighteen, they can enter into contracts without restrictions.

Q: What legal rights do 18-year-olds have in Ohio?

In Ohio, individuals who are eighteen years old have the legal rights of adults. They can enter into contracts, vote, and make medical decisions. They are also subject to adult legal responsibilities, including criminal liability.

Full question:

What was the age of majority in 1970 in Ohio?

Category: Minors
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Ohio

Answer:

In Ohio, the current age of majority is 18 years. But, before the amendment in January 1, 1974, the age of majority was 21 years in Ohio.

In Ledwell v May Co., 54 Ohio Misc 43, 377 NE2d 798, 800 [Ohio Com Pl 1977], “By statutory amendment effective January 1, 1974, the age of majority in Ohio was reduced from 21 years to 18 years. 135 Ohio Laws 7.” Id. at 45.
The relevant law is stated below for more details on this subject:

R.C. 3109.01 - Age of majority
All persons of the age of eighteen years or more, who are under no legal disability, are capable of contracting and are of full age for all purposes.

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

What is the current age of majority in Ohio?

The current age of majority in Ohio is eighteen years. This means that individuals who are eighteen or older can enter into contracts and are considered adults for legal purposes. This age was established by a statutory amendment that took effect on January 1, 1974, reducing the age from twenty-one to eighteen years.