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 Massachusetts, parents can be held liable for the intentional or willful damage caused by their minor children. Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 231, Section 85G, parents or guardians may be responsible for up to $5,000 in property damage caused by a minor under the age of 18. This statute specifically addresses willful, wanton, or malicious acts by minors that result in property damage. Regarding negligent supervision, parents may be held liable if it can be proven that they failed to exercise reasonable care in supervising their child, which then led to the child causing harm or damage. Similarly, for negligent entrustment, parents could be liable if they negligently provided their child with an instrumentality, such as a vehicle or firearm, and the child's use of that item resulted in damage or injury. It's important to note that these laws are subject to certain conditions and limitations, and the specific circumstances of each case can significantly affect the application of liability.