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Am I liable for my son's destruction of property in Florida?

Am I liable for my son's destruction of property in Florida?

Full question:

I live with my son who is 15 years old in Florida. Last week my son destroyed his professor’s car out of anger. His professor has lodged a complaint. Will I be liable for such an act done by my son?

Category: Minors
Subcategory: Liability of Parent
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Florida

Answer:

In Florida, parents can be held liable for the actions of their minor children. According to Fla. Stat. § 741.24, if a minor under 18 years old maliciously or willfully destroys or steals someone else's property, the property owner can seek damages from the minor's parents. This includes actual damages and taxable court costs.

As your son is 15 and lives with you, you may be responsible for the damages caused by his actions.

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

Can parents be held responsible for their child's actions in Florida?

Yes, in Florida, parents can be held liable for the actions of their minor children. If a child under 18 willfully damages someone else's property, the property owner may seek damages from the parents. This includes costs for repairs and any related court fees. (Fla. Stat. § 741.24) *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.*

What are the consequences for a minor who damages property in Florida?

In Florida, if a minor intentionally damages property, they may face civil liability for the damages caused. The property owner can sue for the cost of repairs or replacement. Additionally, the minor could face criminal charges, depending on the severity of the act. Parents may also be held financially responsible for these damages. (Fla. Stat. § 741.24) *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.*

What should I do if my child is accused of damaging property?

If your child is accused of damaging property, it is important to address the situation promptly. You should gather all relevant information, including the details of the incident and any communication from the property owner. Consulting with a legal professional can help you understand your rights and responsibilities. It may also be beneficial to discuss the matter with your child to understand their perspective and encourage accountability. *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.*

Are there defenses for parents against liability for their child's actions?

In Florida, while parents can be held liable for their child's actions, there may be defenses available. For example, if the child acted without the parents' knowledge or consent, or if the act was not willful or malicious, it may affect liability. However, these defenses can be complex, so consulting with an attorney is advisable to explore your specific situation. *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.*

What are the potential damages I could face as a parent?

As a parent in Florida, if your child damages someone else's property, you could be liable for the cost of repairs or replacement of the property. This could include actual damages, which are the direct costs incurred, as well as any court costs associated with a lawsuit. The total amount will depend on the extent of the damage and the specific circumstances of the case. (Fla. Stat. § 741.24) *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.*