A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE REACHING OF THE LEGAL AGE OF MAJORITY IN MINORS UNDER THAI AND JAPANESE LAW

Abstract

This article has the objectives of comparing Thai and Japanese legislation regarding the legal age of majority. When minors reach the age of majority, they obtain full legal capacity, which allows them to act legally independently of their parents. The research revealed that, in accordance with Thai and Japanese legislation, minors have to be under the guardianship of their parents, who are in charge of giving their consent for their juristic act. Based on Japanese law, minors cannot marry or reach the legal age of majority until both parties are at least eighteen years old, which does not require parental approval. This differs from Thai law, which states that minors reach the age of majority at the age of twenty. Likewise, if both parties are at least eighteen years old and have permission from their parents, guardians, or adoptive parents, the minor may marry to reach the age of majority, whether it be a same-sex marriage or a marriage between a man and a woman. They need the consent of the court if they are younger than eighteen. Therefore, a review should be conducted to identify suitable criteria for achieving the age of majority in the changing circumstances and comply with the rights and responsibilities under other laws.