PASSIONATE DEFENSE REPRESENTATION

Let's Change The Outcome

Parents subject to liability for crimes of children

Parents generally will not face criminal charges for the actions of their children. There are a handful of circumstances in which the state will hold the parent criminally liable because of the extremeness of the child’s actions. This article will explore the three main ways that you could be liable for your child’s actions.

First, most states have some sort of law that punishes parents if their child obtains access to firearms. The laws vary depending on the circumstances but they generally break down into various degrees in which minors gain access to firearms. Some states hold the parent liable if the child uses a firearm regardless of the measures to secure the weapon. Other states provide an exception if the child used the weapon in self-defense or the child gained access to the weapon through unlawful means, such as if he or she breaks into your gun safe. These punishments are enhanced if the child causes serious injury or death.

Second, a few states impose liability for “delinquent youth.” This basically means that your child committed a crime and is charged. Depending on the crime parents could face additional criminal penalties for their child’s actions. Most states do not impose such broad criminal liability and instead limit liability to fines. Many states also require that parents attend any hearings in which their child makes an appearance. Some other states require parents to reimburse the court / government for costs associated with detention, support, care or treatment.

Third, parents may be liable if their child commits electronic or Internet crimes. These crimes break down into two basic categories: illegal downloads and sexually explicit materials. Parents can be criminally responsible if their child downloads music, movies or other products illegally ? even if the parent was unaware of the behavior. Additionally, you could be liable if your child uses his or her phone or computer to send sexually explicit photos of him or herself or of their peers.

If your child has committed one of these actions then you could be held criminally responsible. You may want to speak to a criminal defense attorney not just for your child but for your own peace of mind. Generally, you should not face serious criminal penalties however this depends upon the facts of the situation.

CATEGORIES

Recent Posts

How can a DUI conviction impact my commercial driver’s license?

On Behalf of Ryan Beasley Law | Apr 8, 2022 | Drunk Driving | Commercial vehicles are a common sight on the South Carolina roads. Trucks go to, from and through the state delivering and carting items that are vital to everyday life. This can include food, materials,...

What defenses are there for domestic violence charges?

Every relationship has times when you and your partner will disagree. An argument can feel very after both parties have had a chance to cool off than it does while it is happening. In some cases, a disagreement can get out of hand or misinterpreted, leaving both...

How a DUI can threaten your college education

College is an exciting time for young adults. Newfound independence often comes with having to make important decisions on your own, including whether to drink and drive. Unfortunately, millions of college students choose to drive while intoxicated. While you may be...

Bill could lead to harsher penalties after drug overdoses

In South Carolina and across the United States, opioids are garnering significant attention. This is understandable given the number of people who are having problems with these types of drugs. Specifically, fentanyl is drawing scrutiny from state and federal law...

Do you know the importance of jury selection in your case?

There’s a lot to consider when building your criminal defense. While you may want to work with prosecutors early on to try to mitigate the fallout from your case, and you certainly want to gather evidence that contradicts the prosecution’s case, you can’t neglect the...

Do You Need Legal Advice? Don’t Wait.

Get Help Now

I

Visit Our VIDEO CENTER To Find Out More