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Purpose

Scope

Definitions

Review Process Procedures

• Exempt from Informed Consent
• Expedited Reviews
• Full Review Process

Application Checklists

• Exempt Checklist
• Expedited Checklist
• Full Review Checklist

Meeting Schedule

Informed Consent

• Emancipated Minors
• Parental Permission/Assent from Children

Informed Consent Form Examples

IRB Training

Samford University Forms

• Exempt from Informed Consent Application
• Expedited Application
• Full Review Application
• Progress Report to Accompany Renewal Expedited Applications (Word format)
• Progress Report to Accompany Renewal Exempt Applications (Word format)

Federal Regulations

Closure Form

Frequently Asked Questions

Emancipated Minors

Consent Exceptions for Minors

Some individuals under the age of 19 may qualify as an "Emancipated Minor".  The definition from 45 CFR 46 is: “Emancipated minor - A legal status conferred upon persons who have not yet attained the age of legal competency as defined by state law (for such purposes as consenting to medical care), but who are entitled to treatment as if they had by virtue of assuming adult responsibilities such as being self-supporting and not living at home, marriage, or procreation.”

Alabama State Law defines the age of majority as 19 years old.  A person may become "emancipated" before the age of majority by marrying, have borne a child or demonstrating full independence (i.e., not dependent on a parent for support).

An investigator contemplating using children as subjects should consult 45 CFR 46 Subpart D for specific requirements.   NOTE: Some college freshmen are under the age of 19 and are therefore "minors".  The University’s Legal Counsel has determined that college students under the age of 19 are not "Emancipated Minors" for purposes of participating as subjects in research.