Legal Question in Personal Injury in New York

Parent Responsibility w/Teen

I have a teenage son that frequents a friends house whose mother allows drug use and alcohol consumption. These are things my husband and I do not condone. What is this woman's legal responsibility in the event something happens to my son while he is at her home? I know it is my sons decision to do what he does, but though if there was a legal responsibility, I want to inform her of it in hopes that she will re-think allowing this behavior. I wasn't sure which area of law this question was in, so I may have it posted incorrectly.


Asked on 4/27/07, 6:42 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Robert R. Groezinger GroezingerLaw P.C.

Re: Parent Responsibility w/Teen

Local jurisdictions have local laws that apply. Why not inquire of the local DA or the sheriff in your county by telephone?

Good Luck

RRG

Read more
Answered on 4/27/07, 7:00 pm
Anthony Colleluori The Law Offices of Anthony J. Colleluori & Associates PLLC

Re: Parent Responsibility w/Teen

IF she is knowingly permitting an underage person to imbibe alcohol or drugs in her home, she would be endangering the welfare of a Minor, which is a misdemeanor. If the child whould get so intoxicated or drugged up that he dies, then she could be guilty of Manslaughter.

If the child recieves the alcohol and then becomes injured or injures another, the she could become a defendant in a negligence action.

I would do more than just call her. I would send her a letter putting her on notice, and I would also get my son into therapy to find out why he is drinking to excess and breaking the law.

Good Luck.

Read more
Answered on 4/28/07, 1:14 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Personal Injury Law and Tort Law questions and answers in New York