Ted, a seventeen-year-old high school student, was hired to perform in four episodes of Gossip Gidget. To keep up with his schoolwork and gaming, he contracted with Mr. Tech of Technoland for a $2000 laptop computer. He agreed to pay $500 down and the balance by monthly payments of $250. Read each of the following separately and indicate which is true.
A) If Ted doesn't make his payments, Tech can sue Ted's parents because parents are liable for the debts of their minor children.
B) This contract is void; therefore, Tech can repossess the laptop which is technically still his whether Ted makes the payments or not.
C) If this contract is in writing and Ted doesn't make his payments, Tech can sue Ted for breach of contract.
D) This contract is a legal contract enforceable by Ted.
E) This contract is a legal contract enforceable against Ted.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

EContracts entered into by minors are generally voidable at the option of the minor. However, contracts for necessities, such as food, clothing, and in some cases, items required for a job or education, can be enforceable. Since Ted is using the laptop presumably for his education and possibly for work related to his acting job, the contract can be considered for a necessity, making it enforceable. Thus, Ted can enforce the contract if he chooses, and it can also be enforceable against him, especially if he has ratified the contract by making payments or by keeping the laptop past the age of majority.

Ted, a Seventeen-Year-Old High School Student, Was Hired to Perform