The “Mature Minor Doctrine,” and what it means to your 16 year-old

The Mature Minor Doctrine is a common law doctrine created in most states through judicial rulings. The doctrine accepts that an unemancipated minor may possess the maturity to choose or reject a particular health care treatment.  Illinois’ version of the doctrine was created by the 1989 Supreme Court of Illinois decision, In re E.G.  Most recently, the Doctrine was discussed in a Connecticut Supreme Court case where the court unanimously ruled that a 17 year old girl can be forced to undergo cancer treatments against her will. This podcast with attorney Sarah Flohr will discuss the Mature Minor Doctrine and how it could affect unemancipated minors in the state of Illinois.