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Can I stop my son from going to Key West with a friend?

Can I stop my son from going to Key West with a friend?

Q: What are the risks of letting my child travel without supervision?

Allowing your child to travel without supervision can pose risks, including safety concerns and exposure to potentially dangerous situations. It's important to assess the maturity of your child and the nature of the trip. Discuss safety measures and establish clear rules to help ensure their well-being while traveling.

Q: What should I consider before allowing my child to go on a trip?

Before allowing your child to go on a trip, consider their age, maturity level, the destination, and the nature of the trip. Discuss the itinerary, who they will be with, and any safety precautions. Open communication about your expectations and their responsibilities can help ensure a safer experience.

Full question:

I'm married and my wife has told my 15 year old son he can go to Key West and help a friend (he is not a captain) bring a boat up the Atlantic coast. Can I prevent him from doing this?

Category: Minors
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Virginia

Answer:

We cannot give legal advice, and this information is not a substitute for consulting a local attorney. However, here are some considerations:

You could try to forbid your son from going, but he might choose to leave anyway or accept your decision and stay home. If you physically restrain him, you could be liable for causing harm or unlawful imprisonment. If he has his own means of transportation, it may be difficult to stop him. For example, if you prevent him from using your car and he takes it anyway, you could report it as theft, and the police might bring him back. However, if he uses his own resources for the trip, it’s challenging to prevent him if he decides to leave against your wishes. There is no law that allows you to confine him against his will.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What can I do if my teenager wants to go on a trip I disapprove of?

If your teenager wants to go on a trip that you disapprove of, you can express your concerns and discuss the reasons behind your feelings. While you can set rules, ultimately, if they are determined to go and have their own means of transportation, it may be difficult to prevent them. Open communication is key, and it may help to find a compromise or alternative solutions.

Can I legally stop my child from traveling with friends?

Legally, you have the authority to set boundaries for your minor child. However, if your child is determined to travel and has their own means of transportation, it may be challenging to stop them. Physical restraint could lead to legal issues such as claims of unlawful imprisonment. It's important to discuss your concerns openly with your child.