Is it possible to be a member of a club as a minor, and what special rules apply in this case?
November 6, 2023 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Roberta Lahn
Dear lawyer specializing in club law,
My name is Renate Walter and I am reaching out to you with a question that has been on my mind for some time. I am 16 years old and am very interested in becoming a member of a club. Now I am wondering if it is even possible for a minor to become a club member and what special considerations need to be taken into account.
The situation is as follows: I have a great interest in a particular sport and would like to join a corresponding club to actively participate and improve my skills. However, I am unsure if my age may be a hindrance and what legal aspects come into play.
My concerns primarily revolve around the possibility that, due to my age, I may not have the same rights and responsibilities as adult club members. Furthermore, I am worried about whether I can legally enter into a valid membership contract and what consequences this could have for me.
Therefore, it would be very helpful for me to learn about the special considerations for minors in club membership and if there are any restrictions or special regulations that need to be considered. Additionally, I would like to know what options are available for a minor to become a full-fledged member of a club and what steps are necessary for this.
I hope you can assist me with my questions and provide me with information on the legal framework. Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Renate Walter
Dear Mrs. Walter,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the membership of minors in clubs. I am pleased that you are interested in actively participating in a club and I am happy to provide you with legal information.
In general, it is possible for a minor to become a member of a club. However, there are some specificities and legal aspects to consider. Firstly, you should know that minors are generally limited in their legal capacity. This means that they are not legally able to enter into effective contracts.
In the case of club membership, the membership contract is considered valid, even if you are a minor. This is because the conclusion of a membership contract is generally seen as a legally non-binding declaration of intent. However, you should be aware that your parents or legal guardians must consent to the membership, as they are responsible for your legal affairs.
Regarding your rights and obligations as a minor member of a club, it should be noted that you generally have the same rights and obligations as adult members. However, there are some exceptions that specifically apply to minors. For example, minors are usually not allowed to make legally binding statements on behalf of the club.
To become a full member of a club, you usually need to submit a membership application and the necessary documents, such as a consent form from your parents. Additionally, you should familiarize yourself with the club's statutes to see if there are any specific regulations for minor members.
In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that membership in a club can be a enriching experience, where you can personally develop and learn new skills. I hope my explanations have helped answer your questions and wish you success in your endeavor.
Best regards,
Roberta Lahn
