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 Oregon, parents can be held liable for intentional or willful acts of property damage caused by their minor children. Under ORS 30.765, a parent or legal guardian of a minor child may be liable for up to $7,500 in damages if the child engages in an intentional or reckless act that results in property damage or loss. This statute does not cover negligent acts unless they are part of the intentional or reckless behavior. Regarding negligent supervision, Oregon case law suggests that parents may be held liable for damages if it can be proven that they failed to supervise their child adequately, and this failure led to the damage. As for negligent entrustment, parents in Oregon could be held responsible if they negligently entrust 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 are subject to certain conditions and limitations, and the specific circumstances of each case can significantly affect the outcome.