Parents are generally responsible for (have liability for) intentional, willful, and malicious property damage done by their minor child. Parents may also be liable for the negligent acts of their minor child if the parents were (1) negligent in supervising the child (negligent supervision), or (2) negligent in entrusting the use of a car, gun, boat, motorcycle, or other item (often called an instrumentality) to the child (negligent entrustment).

These parental liability laws vary from state to state; often include age and monetary limits; and may be included in your state’s statutes—often in the family code.

In Connecticut, parents can be held liable for the willful or malicious acts of their minor children that result in property damage or personal injury. Under Connecticut General Statutes Section 52-572, parents or guardians are responsible for up to $5,000 in damages caused by the intentional or malicious acts of their children who are under the age of 18. This statute provides a monetary limit to the liability that parents may face. Additionally, parents may be liable for negligent supervision if it can be shown that they failed to exercise reasonable care in supervising their child, which resulted in damage or injury. Furthermore, the concept of negligent entrustment applies if a parent knowingly allows a minor to use an instrumentality, such as a vehicle or firearm, and the minor causes damage or injury due to their incompetence or recklessness. The specific circumstances and evidence of negligence or willfulness will determine the extent of parental liability in each case.