Alaikäisyys

Alaikäisyys refers to the legal status of being below the age of majority. In most legal systems, this means an individual is not considered an adult and therefore lacks the full legal rights and responsibilities of an adult. The age of majority varies by jurisdiction but is commonly set at 18 years old.

Individuals who are considered minors, or alaikäiset, typically have limitations in areas such as entering into contracts, consenting to medical treatment, voting, or purchasing alcohol and tobacco. Parental consent or guardianship is often required for legal and medical decisions concerning minors. The specific age at which certain rights and responsibilities are acquired can differ, with some exceptions for specific actions like emancipation or if a minor is deemed mature enough by a court to make certain decisions.

The concept of alaikäisyys is designed to protect individuals who are presumed to lack the maturity, judgment, and experience necessary to fully understand and manage complex legal and personal matters. It also serves to shield them from exploitation. The legal system provides specific protections for minors, and certain offenses committed by minors may be handled differently in juvenile justice systems. As an individual approaches the age of majority, they gradually gain more legal autonomy.