Agreement with Minor is MCQ: A Guide for Copy Editors
As a copy editor, it is essential to have a sound understanding of legal terminology and concepts to ensure that the documents you are editing are accurate, professional, and free from errors. One such concept is “Agreement with Minor is MCQ” or “Minors Contract Act,” which refers to the legal status of contracts entered into by individuals who have not yet reached the age of majority.
In India, the Indian Contract Act, 1872, governs the legal framework for agreements between parties. According to this act, a person who is under 18 years of age is considered a minor, and hence, any agreement or contract signed by them is considered “void-ab-initio” or null and void from the very beginning.
However, there is an exception to this rule. The “Agreement with Minor is MCQ” clause states that a minor can enter into a contract if it falls under any of the following categories:
1. Any contract for necessities: A contract to supply goods or services that are essential for the minor`s survival, such as food, clothing, shelter, or medical care, is valid.
2. Contracts of apprenticeship: A minor can be bound by a contract of apprenticeship, provided that it is for their benefit and not against public policy.
3. Contracts of employment: A minor can enter into a contract of employment, but the terms and conditions must be fair and reasonable.
4. Contracts for his/her benefit: A minor can enter into a contract to receive a benefit, such as education or marriage expenses. However, the contract must be for their benefit and not for the benefit of any other party.
As a copy editor, it is important to understand the legal implications of the “Agreement with Minor is MCQ” clause. Any agreement that falls outside the categories mentioned above is considered void, and any reference to such agreements in a document must be corrected.
For example, if you are editing a contract that includes a clause stating that a minor is bound by the agreement, you should remove the clause or reword it to reflect the “Agreement with Minor is MCQ” clause. Similarly, if you are editing a lease agreement that includes a clause stating that a minor is responsible for rent payments, you should remove the clause as it is not legally binding.
In conclusion, as a copy editor, it is important to have a sound understanding of legal terminology and concepts, including the “Agreement with Minor is MCQ” clause. Any reference to agreements that are not legally binding must be removed, ensuring that the document is accurate, professional, and free from errors.