At 18, you legally transition from a minor to an adult, which grants you significant new rights and responsibilities.
Legal Adult Status
The biggest change when you turn 18 is that you achieve legal adult status. According to the provided reference, this status brings several key alterations:
- Independence from Parental Control: While your parents might still care for you, legally, you are now treated as an individual responsible for your own decisions.
- New Rights and Responsibilities: You gain many new rights and become responsible for your actions in the eyes of the law.
Key Changes at 18
Here's a detailed look at what you can legally do once you turn 18, based on the provided reference:
| Right/Responsibility | Description |
|---|---|
| Voting | You can now vote in local, state, and federal elections. |
| Military Service | You are eligible to enlist in any branch of the military. |
| Jury Duty | You can be called to serve on a jury in court proceedings. |
| Contract Signing | You can legally enter into contracts for things like a lease, a car purchase, or a credit card. |
| Marriage | You can get married without needing parental consent. |
Summary
Turning 18 means that you become a legal adult with the ability to vote, join the military, serve on a jury, sign contracts, and get married without needing parental consent. This shift comes with both new freedoms and responsibilities.
