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How much does a parent have to pay as compensation if their minor child destroys property of a person?

How much does a parent have to pay as compensation if their minor child destroys property of a person?

Full question:

My 17-year-old son got himself into a fight with a boy who used to bully him and broke the furniture in his house. Now this guy and his dad are asking us to pay $25,000 as compensation. Can they ask such a big amount as compensation?

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

Answer:

As your son is a minor, and he has destroyed the property of another, you do need to compensate them. But in this case you’re not required to pay more than $5,000. You’re not required to pay $25,000 in any case. The relevant law here is A.C.A. § 9-25-102, it says:

“(a) The state or any county, city, town, or school district, or any person, corporation, or organization shall be entitled to recover damages in an amount not in excess of five thousand dollars ($5,000) in a court of competent jurisdiction from the parents of any minor under eighteen (18) years of age, living with a parent or legal guardian, who shall maliciously or willfully destroy, damage, or deface real, personal, or mixed property belonging to the state or county, city, town, or school district, or any person, corporation, or organization.”

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 are parents' liabilities for their children's actions?

Parents can be held liable for the actions of their minor children, especially if the child causes damage to property. In many states, including Arkansas, parents are responsible for damages caused by their children, but there is typically a limit to this liability. Under A.C.A. § 9-25-102, parents are liable for damages up to $5,000 for willful or malicious damage caused by their minor children. This means that even if the damages exceed this amount, parents are not legally required to pay more than $5,000.

Can a minor be sued for damages?

Yes, a minor can be sued for damages. However, because minors are often considered not fully responsible for their actions, lawsuits may target the parents for compensation instead. In cases involving property damage, the parents may be held liable up to a specific limit, such as $5,000 in Arkansas, as outlined in A.C.A. § 9-25-102. This means the minor can be part of the lawsuit, but the parents are primarily responsible for any financial compensation.

What should I do if someone is asking for compensation for my child's actions?

If someone is requesting compensation for damages caused by your child, it’s important to assess the situation carefully. First, gather all relevant information about the incident. You may want to consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and responsibilities. In Arkansas, remember that your liability for damages caused by your child is limited to $5,000 under A.C.A. § 9-25-102. A lawyer can help you navigate any claims and negotiate a resolution.

Are there limits to how much damages can be claimed against parents?

Yes, in Arkansas, there are limits to how much can be claimed against parents for damages caused by their minor children. According to A.C.A. § 9-25-102, parents are liable for damages up to $5,000 for willful or malicious acts. This means that even if the damages exceed this amount, parents cannot be held responsible for more than $5,000. It’s important to understand this limit when dealing with claims for compensation.