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 Nebraska, parents can be held liable for the willful or malicious acts of their minor children that result in property damage. This liability is typically limited to a certain monetary amount. For example, under Nebraska Revised Statute 43-801, parents may be responsible for up to $1,000 in damages. Additionally, parents can be liable for negligent supervision if it can be shown that they failed to exercise reasonable care in supervising their child, which then led to the child causing damage. Furthermore, the concept of negligent entrustment applies when a parent allows a minor to use an instrumentality, such as a vehicle or firearm, and the minor causes damage or injury due to their negligence. The specific statutes and case law in Nebraska will determine the extent of liability and any relevant defenses that may apply. It is important for parents to understand these laws as they can have significant financial and legal implications.