Contributing to the delinquency of a minor is a criminal offense that is generally governed by state laws, and located in a state’s penal or criminal code (statutes). The crime is usually defined as an adult knowingly persuading, inducing, enticing, encouraging, assisting, or facilitating a minor to engage in conduct that would constitute a violation of state or federal law, or of a municipal or local ordinance.

Some common examples of contributing to the delinquency of a minor include:

• purchasing or providing alcoholic beverages for minors;

• providing illegal drugs to minors;

• allowing minors to use illegal drugs or drink alcohol in your presence;

• providing a fake ID to enable a minor to enter a bar, casino, or other adult-only establishment;

• accompanying a minor while the minor commits a criminal act;

• asking, encouraging, or persuading a minor to commit a crime;

• asking or allowing a minor to assist you in committing a crime; and

• encouraging or assisting a minor in driving a vehicle without a license or permit.

In some states the criminal offense of contributing to the delinquency of a minor only applies to parents, guardians, or other adults who had custody and control of the minor at the time of the crime. But in other states any adult who contributes to the delinquency of a minor—as defined by the relevant state statute—may be subject to criminal prosecution.

In New Hampshire, contributing to the delinquency of a minor is addressed under the state's criminal code. An adult can be charged with this offense if they are found to be encouraging or aiding a minor to engage in illegal activities. This includes providing alcohol or illegal drugs to minors, facilitating their consumption of these substances, supplying fake IDs, or being complicit in any criminal acts committed by the minor. The law is not limited to parents or guardians; any adult who plays a role in leading a minor towards delinquency can face charges. The specific statutes that cover these actions are found in the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA), and the penalties for such offenses can vary depending on the nature and severity of the act that contributed to the minor's delinquency.