Let’s not raise the minimum age for marriage and civil partnership – at least, not yet

Citation

Sutherland E (2026) Let’s not raise the minimum age for marriage and civil partnership – at least, not yet. Scottish Legal News, (19 February 2026).

Abstract
The Scottish government is considering whether the age at which young people may marry or register a civil partnership should be raised from 16 years old to 18. Writing for Scottish Legal News, Professor Elaine E Sutherland argues that how Scots law addressed the capacity and responsibility of children and young people should be reviewed comprehensively before any action is taken in respect of this fundamental right.

Journal
Scottish Legal News, Issue 19 February 2026