What happens to contracts made with minors if they do not involve necessaries?

Contracts made with minors that do not involve necessaries are generally considered void and unenforceable. This principle stems from the incapacity of minors to enter into binding contracts, reflecting a legal protection designed to safeguard minors from exploitation and the consequences of their immaturity.

Minors are usually defined as individuals below the age of majority, which varies by jurisdiction. When a minor enters into a contract that does not pertain to necessaries, such as food, clothing, or shelter, the law recognizes their right to void the agreement. This prevents minors from being held accountable for commitments that they might not fully understand or appreciate, thereby ensuring their protection in legal matters.

In contrast, contracts for necessaries remain enforceable to ensure that minors can procure essential goods and services even if they are not of legal age. The distinction arises from the recognition that while minors may lack the capacity to contract generally, they still need access to basic necessities for their well-being. Therefore, while contracts with minors for necessaries are valid, those that do not serve such basic needs lack enforceability.