E. Gordon Peters, Jr
Are Parents Responsible for Their Child's Crimes?
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, a minor – a person less than 18 years of age – can be arrested for violating the law or committing a crime. Although, parents or legal guardians may not be held criminally liable for their child's actions. However, they may be held civilly responsible – sued in civil court – for property damages caused by the child's willful and malicious conduct.