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Understanding Parental Liability: When Parents Face Legal Consequences for Teen Actions

Many Orange County parents are surprised to learn they can face criminal charges and civil liability for their teenager’s actions. California’s parental responsibility laws have expanded, increasing legal risks for families. Knowing when you might be liable is essential to protect both your teen and yourself. At the Law Office of Katie Walsh, our experienced Orange County juvenile defense lawyers help parents understand their rights and build strong defenses against parental liability claims.
Differences Between Criminal vs Civil Parental Liability
Criminal parental liability means the state can prosecute parents for offenses like contributing to their child’s delinquency or failing to control a minor. These charges can lead to fines or even jail time.
On the other hand, civil liability involves lawsuits from victims seeking financial compensation for harm caused by a teen. Knowing the difference between criminal and civil liability is important to understand the risks parents may face.
Criminal Charges Parents May Face
Under California law, parents can face serious criminal charges related to their teenager’s behavior, including:
- Contributing to Delinquency (PC § 272): Allowing alcohol or drug use at home, or failing to supervise teens with known behavioral problems.
- Failure to Control a Minor: When parents know their child poses a danger but do not take action to prevent harm.
- Gun Storage Violations (PC § 25100): Liability if minors access firearms that are not properly secured.
At the Law Office of Katie Walsh, our Orange County juvenile defense attorneys are here to protect your rights and your family’s future. If you’re facing parental liability charges, contact us today for trusted legal support.
Civil Liability Risks for Parents
Parents can also face civil claims for their teen’s actions, including:
- Parents can owe up to $25,000 for their child’s property damage (Civil Code § 1714.1).
- Parents may be sued if their teen causes accidents or injuries.
- Negligent supervision claims occur when parents don’t properly monitor risky teens.
If you’re facing civil liability concerns, an experienced Orange County juvenile defense lawyer can help protect your family’s interests.
Legal Duties of Parents Under California Law
California law expects parents to reasonably supervise their children and stop harmful behavior. This means taking active steps to manage risky actions and safely secure firearms or substances. If parents don’t do this, they could face criminal charges or civil lawsuits.
How Our Orange County Juvenile Defense Lawyer Protects Parents
Facing legal claims as a parent can be overwhelming. An Orange County juvenile defense lawyer can help protect your rights and fight to reduce consequences. An experienced Orange County juvenile defense attorney can:
- Show you didn’t know about your teen’s risky behavior
- Prove you supervised and tried to control your child
- Challenge unfair laws punishing parents without due process
If you face parental liability charges, contact the Law Office of Katie Walsh for trusted Orange County juvenile defense help today.
Schedule a Free Consultation with an Orange County Juvenile Defense Attorney
Parental liability cases often occur alongside juvenile criminal cases and can be complex. Orange County prosecutors and civil attorneys actively pursue parents with assets or insurance. If you’re facing parental liability claims, contact the Law Office of Katie Walsh at (714) 351-0178 or reach out to us online. Our skilled Orange County juvenile defense lawyers defend both parents and teens, creating strong strategies to protect your family’s future.