Minderjährigen

Minderjährige, commonly written as Minderjährige in the nominative plural, designates people who have not yet reached the age of majority. The age of majority is typically 18 years in many jurisdictions; individuals under this age are described as Minderjährige. The form Minderjährigen exists in genitive and dative cases (der Minderjährigen, den Minderjährigen) and is encountered in legal texts.

In civil law, Minderjährige generally have limited legal capacity. They may perform certain acts, such as routine purchases or other everyday transactions, with their own funds under the Taschengeldparagraph (Section 110 BGB in German law). For more significant contracts or acts, parental or guardian consent is usually required, and acts done without consent may be void or require later ratification when the minor reaches full capacity.

Minderjährige are afforded special protections in family law, education, health, and protection from exploitation. Parents or guardians typically exercise custody and decision-making authority, while state bodies and courts intervene to safeguard the minor's best interests in cases of neglect, abuse, or disputes about care.

Societal and policy frameworks emphasize education, health care access, safety, and protection against child labor and hazardous work. Institutions such as schools, youth welfare offices, and child protection agencies work to support Minderjährige in development and well-being, and to ensure their rights are respected as they grow toward adulthood.