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Child custody

parental liability for conduct of child

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 Idaho, parents can be held liable for the willful or malicious acts of their minor children that result in property damage or personal injury, as outlined in Idaho Code § 6-210. This statute holds parents or legal guardians responsible for up to $5,000 in damages. 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 led to the damage or injury. Furthermore, under the doctrine of negligent entrustment, parents in Idaho could be held liable if they negligently provide their child with an instrumentality, such as a vehicle or firearm, and the child causes damage or injury with it. It's important to note that these laws have specific conditions and limits, and the application of these laws can vary depending on the circumstances of each case.

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Child custody

parental liability for conduct of child

As a LegalFix Member You Will Be an Important Client of Local Law Firms

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Idaho State Code

Idaho State Code

Articles

Child custody

parental liability for conduct of child