Q: What's the difference between being 18 and being 19 in Alabama. From my understanding there is little to no difference?
I'm in a situation where I want to move to flordia with my boyfriend and his biological dad but my parents are very against it. I need to know if they can legally stop me from going. I'm 18 but not yet 19 which in Alabama is the age of majority. But what's the difference? What can a 19 year old do in Alabama that an 18 year old can't?
A:
In Alabama, there are a few key differences between 18-year-olds and 19-year-olds in terms of legal rights and responsibilities:
1. Age of majority: In Alabama, the age of majority is 19. This means that at 19, you are considered an adult for most legal purposes, whereas at 18, you are still considered a minor in some aspects.
2. Contracts: At 19, you can enter into binding contracts without parental consent. At 18, your parents may still have the right to void certain contracts you enter into.
3. Suing and being sued: At 19, you can sue or be sued in your own name. At 18, your parents may still be involved in legal matters on your behalf.
However, there are many things that an 18-year-old can do in Alabama, just like in most other states:
1. Vote: 18-year-olds have the right to vote in local, state, and federal elections.
2. Serve in the military: At 18, you can enlist in the military without parental consent.
3. Get married: 18-year-olds can marry without parental consent in Alabama.
4. Move out: As an 18-year-old, you can legally move out of your parents' home without their permission.
Regarding your specific situation, as an 18-year-old in Alabama, your parents cannot legally force you to stay at home or prevent you from moving to another state. However, it's always best to try and maintain open communication with your family and consider their concerns before making a major life decision.
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