What happens if a minor enters into a contract?

The answer that indicates the minor has the right to void the contract is based on a fundamental principle of contract law known as the capacity to contract. Minors generally lack the legal capacity to enter into binding contracts, which means they have the right to disaffirm or void most contracts they enter into. This ensures that minors are protected from entering into agreements that they may not fully understand or appreciate the consequences of.

When a minor chooses to void a contract, they can do so without facing penalties or obligations to perform under the contract. This right to void is a protective measure meant to safeguard minors from exploitative situations and to recognize their limited ability to make informed, mature decisions.

This principle varies in specifics from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, as some contracts with minors may be enforceable, particularly those for necessities like food or shelter, but the overarching legal framework gives minors the inherent right to disaffirm most contracts they enter into.