A Study of the Problematic State of Full Growth Age in Nonfinancial Matters in the Law of Iran

After the Islamic Revolution in Iran, article 1210 of the Civil Code was amended and full and growth age, set at 18, was replaced by puberty age of 9 for girls and 15 for boys in lunar years of Islamic calendar. This amendment has resulted in conflict between regulations. The Supreme Court has attempted to solve this conflict and in its decision No. 30-23/12/1985, along with puberty, has required the confirmation of full growth age in financial matters. While in nonfinancial matters, puberty age alone has been considered sufficient, and girls or boys who reach the age of puberty, 9 and 15 respectively, can decide for themselves independently in nonfinancial matters such as their education and the change of their family names. This claim, due to its negative effects and consequences, must be restricted. Additionally, different ages have been referred to in civil law and attempts must be made to overcome such controversies. This paper attempts to introduce one single age as growth age in nonfinancial matters and seeks to harmonize the probable conflicts between regulations based on the benefits of the society and the individuals. It is concluded that, based on the single-clause article concerning growth age of the parties to a contract, 18 must also be considered as the presumption of growth in nonfinancial matters.