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HomeFamily CodeDiv. 11Pt. 1§ 6502 Age Majority Reference Rules

§ 6502 Age Majority Reference Rules

Family Code·California
AI Summary·Official Text·Key Terms·Related Statutes·References
AI SummaryVerified

§ 6502 Age Majority Reference Rules

This law explains what 'adult' and 'minor' mean in legal documents. Before 1972, you were an adult at 21, but after that, you're an adult at 18.

Key Takeaways

  • •Before March 4, 1972, you were an adult at 21.
  • •After March 4, 1972, you're an adult at 18.
  • •Old documents can sometimes be changed to use the 18-year-old rule if they meet certain conditions.

Example

A will written in 1970 says money goes to someone when they reach the 'age of majority'.

Since the will was made before 1972, the person gets the money at 21, not 18.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 6502 Age Majority Reference Rules

(a) The use of or reference to the words “age of majority,” “age of minority,” “adult,” “minor,” or words of similar intent in any instrument, order, transfer, or governmental communication made in this state: (1) Before March 4, 1972, makes reference to individuals 21 years of age and older, or younger than 21 years of age. (2) On or after March 4, 1972, makes reference to individuals 18 years of age and older, or younger than 18 years of age. (b) Nothing in subdivision (a) or in Chapter 1748 of the Statutes of 1971 prevents amendment of any court order, will, trust, contract, transfer, or instrument to refer to the 18-year-old age of majority if the court order, will, trust, contract, transfer, or instrument satisfies all of the following conditions: (1) It was in existence on March 4, 1972. (2) It is subject to amendment by law, and amendment is allowable or not prohibited by its terms. (3) It is otherwise subject to the laws of this state. (Enacted by Stats. 1992, Ch. 162, Sec. 10. Operative January 1, 1994.)

Last verified: January 9, 2026

Key Terms

age of majorityage of minorityadultminorMarch 4, 197218

Related Statutes

  • § 6229 Minor Court Appearance Without Counsel
  • § 6500 Minority Age Calculation
  • § 6501 Adult Age Definition
  • § 6550 Caregiver School Medical Authorization
  • § 6600 Minor Civil Liability Wrongdoing

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Family Code. Section 6502.
View Official Source