What is the status of a contract entered into by a minor?

A contract entered into by a minor is considered voidable. This means that the minor has the legal right to affirm or void the contract at their discretion. The rationale behind this principle is that minors, due to their age and perceived lack of maturity and experience, are granted certain protections under the law. This legal standard recognizes that minors may not fully understand the implications of their agreements, thus allowing them the opportunity to escape from contractual obligations to prevent potential exploitation.

In practice, if a minor decides they want to ratify the contract after reaching the age of majority, they can choose to do so. Conversely, if they choose to void the contract while still a minor, they can do so without repercussions, emphasizing how the law prioritizes their protection. This is unlike contracts that are deemed void, which have no legal effect from the start, or valid or enforceable agreements, which bindingly obligate all parties involved. In this context, "voidable" accurately reflects the legal status of a contract created by a minor.