Can Parents Be Held Liable for Juvenile Crimes in Connecticut?
Juvenile crimes, particularly vehicle thefts, spiked in the state in 2020, but have returned to near-historic lows. Experts believe the disruptions brought on by the pandemic were the major cause of the increase in juvenile crimes. As if dealing with a child’s criminal charges is not stressful enough, as parents, you may also have to deal with your own set of legal issues as a result of your child’s crime.
From financial responsibility to civil lawsuits, Connecticut law (Section 52-572 of the Connecticut General Statutes) allows for certain situations under which parents can be held liable for their minor child’s actions. If your child has recently been charged with a crime, it is important to understand how the state could hold you accountable and what steps you need to take to protect yourself and your child. An experienced Stamford, CT juvenile crimes lawyer can help you sort out all the issues in the best way possible.
How Are Juvenile Crimes Handled in Connecticut?
Offenders under the age of 18 are primarily handled within the juvenile justice system. Connecticut focuses on rehabilitation as well as accountability for young offenders, rather than punishment. Cases for minors are usually heard in juvenile court, and the state has policies in place that ensure a needs assessment for juveniles within five days of arrest. The goal is to intervene quickly while providing access to necessary services.
The state has also increased its focus on diversion programs and community-based services to try to prevent any further involvement in the justice system for juveniles. Juveniles aged 14, 15, and older who have been charged with serious felonies may be transferred to an adult criminal court. Recent Connecticut laws have focused on ensuring juveniles are brought before a judge quickly following an arrest, allowing for electronic monitoring in some cases.
When Could Parents Be Responsible for Their Child’s Criminal Activities?
Under Connecticut statutes, parents may be held civilly liable for property damage, personal injury, and auto theft committed by their child when the child’s actions are willful or malicious. Criminal liability typically does not extend to parents; however, when a child’s actions cause harm or damage, civil liability is a possibility.
When a child willfully or maliciously damages property or injures another person, his or her parents can be liable for up to $5,000 in damages. If a child steals a motor vehicle and damages it, his or her parents can be held liable for up to $5,000 in damages.
If the parents are aware that the child has a propensity for causing harm, parents who fail to exercise reasonable care in supervising their child can be held liable for the child’s crimes. Courts can order parents to pay restitution to victims and are more likely to do so if the parents were aware of or condoned the child’s behavior.
School and Community Consequences for Parents
Truancy and other school-related issues may also involve parental accountability. Connecticut law requires parents and guardians to ensure their children attend school regularly. If a parent fails to ensure regular attendance by their child, he or she can be fined $25 per day, with each day’s absence considered a separate offense.
Schools will implement intervention plans to address truancy, and parents are expected to actively participate in interventions and work with the school to improve the child’s attendance. Parents of truant children could face civil penalties, including court orders and participation in parenting classes. In extreme cases, parents could face allegations of educational neglect.
Contact a Fairfield County, CT Juvenile Defense Lawyer
If your child is facing criminal charges in Connecticut, the legal consequences could extend beyond the crime. Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a parent is crucial, in the same way as having a Stamford, CT juvenile crimes attorney from Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner by your side. Our attorney will guide your family through the process while minimizing your liability. To schedule your free consultation, call 203-348-5846.