Hello! I'm only 16 years old and I want to start freelancing as a web designer using sites like freelance.com, odesk.com, etc. Considering my age how can I be payed for my services? Also I'm thinking of starting my own website where clients can see my recent work and contact me in order to discuss the prices and details about the projects. What legal issues should I think about? Please point me to some links/ articles explaining the legal part of freelancing.
I think you should concentrate on the work which is been asked in forums like DP, in the buy, sell, trade section and start your earnings from here. Once you have a handful of amount to spend then you can do your own site to show your work to the clients. Right now the only way for you to have a paypal account is get your elder bro or sis's (if not then parents) credit card and apply for an account. Also make sure you build a reputation among the buyers here who in return appreciate your work by proper feedbacks, this will be necessary for your new clients.