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Simple English definitions for legal terms
parental-liability statute
Read a random definition: statement of prior-art references
A quick definition of parental-liability statute:
A parental-liability statute is a law that holds parents responsible for the actions of their minor children, especially if they commit intentional harm to others. All states have these laws, but most limit the amount of money parents have to pay for damages to around $3,000 per incident. Parents can also face criminal charges for their children's actions, such as contributing to delinquency or improper supervision. Some states even make it a felony for parents to give their children access to firearms if they know there is a risk of them using it to commit a crime.
A more thorough explanation:
A parental-liability statute is a law that holds parents responsible for the actions of their minor children, especially intentional torts. All states have these laws, but most limit the parents' monetary liability to about $3,000 per tort. Parents can also face criminal charges for the acts of their children.
For example, if a minor child vandalizes someone's property, the parents may be held liable for the damages caused by their child. Similarly, if a minor child assaults someone, the parents may be held responsible for any resulting injuries or damages.
Parental-liability statutes are aimed at ensuring that parents take responsibility for their children's actions and prevent them from engaging in harmful behavior. These laws also encourage parents to supervise their children and teach them to behave responsibly.
Parental Kidnapping Prevention Act | parental-preference doctrine