Alabama's Parental Responsibility Law (2024)

Under Code of Alabama section 6-5-380, parents and guardians may be liable for property damage caused by minor children. Learn more.

By David Goguen, J.D.

While it is not nearly as far-reaching as the parental responsibility laws in place in other states, Alabama has a statute on the books that makes parents and legal guardians financially liable for certain actions taken by their children. In this article, we'll break down the key aspects of this law.

Who Can Be Liable for a Minor's Conduct in Alabama?

You'll find Alabama's parental responsibility law at Code of Alabama section 6-5-380. This law can be used to hold a parent, legal guardian, or other person liable for certain acts taken by a minor (a "minor" being a person who is under 18 years of age) when:

  • the person has "care or control" of the minor
  • the minor is living with the person, and
  • the person has custody of the minor.

Key exception: Foster parents aren't liable for the actions of their foster children in Alabama.

What Conduct is Covered by Alabama's Parental Responsibility Law?

Section 6-5-380 makes the parent or guardian liable for the "injury to, or destruction of" someone else's property—real or personal property—caused by the intentional, willful, or malicious act or acts of the minor.

So, this law can be used only to hold a parent or guardian liable when a child does something on purpose to cause property damage. Mere carelessness or negligence is not enough to trigger liability. So, a parent or guardian would not be liable under this law for vehicle damage resulting from a car accident caused by a minor. But the statute would apply to acts of vandalism like graffiti, or throwing rocks through windows.

How Much is Recoverable Under Alabama's Parental Responsibility Law?

This is where the limits of Alabama's parental responsibility law are most apparent. Section 6-5-380 makes clear that parents and others are on the financial hook for "actual damages" resulting from harm to property, but only for an amount that cannot exceed $1,000.

So, even if the minor's conduct ends up causing a significant amount of damage to property, the owner of the property would still only be able to collect $1,000 from the parent or guardian (although the statute also makes the parent or guardian liable for the harmed party's costs of taking the matter to court, and those costs are not a part of the $1,000 limit).

Alabama Parents May Still Be Liable Beyond This Statute

Section 6-5-380 may not represent the limit of a parent or guardian's potential liability for a minor child's conduct in Alabama.

Liability for a child's actions may still exist under traditional fault theories like negligence. Basically, a parent may be liable for any resulting harm if they know of their child's dangerous tendencies, yet they fail to take reasonable steps to properly supervise the child, and someone ends up getting injured in a way that was foreseeable. (Learn more about Negligence and the Duty of Care.)

Alabama's Parental Responsibility Law (2024)

FAQs

Alabama's Parental Responsibility Law? ›

What Conduct is Covered by Alabama's Parental Responsibility Law? Section 6-5-380 makes the parent or guardian liable for the "injury to, or destruction of" someone else's property—real or personal property—caused by the intentional, willful, or malicious act or acts of the minor.

What is the 16 28 12 code in Alabama? ›

Any principal or superintendent of education or his or her designee intentionally failing to report a suspected violation shall be guilty of a Class C misdemeanor. The district attorney shall vigorously enforce this section to ensure proper conduct and required attendance by any child enrolled in public school.

Can a child refuse to see a parent in Alabama? ›

The child's preference doesn't control the judge's decision but weighs heavily in the final decision. There is no specific age when Alabama courts must consider a child's opinion. Instead, the judge in each case must determine whether the child is mature enough to have a reasonable preference.

Who usually gets custody in Alabama? ›

Alabama courts make custody determinations based on the best interests of the children involved in the case. The court will consider joint custody in every case, as there is a presumption that it is in a child's best interest to maintain relationships with both parents.

Is Alabama a 50 50 custody state? ›

Alabama officially favors joint custody (but not equal physical custody) and makes it a policy of the State to assure that minor children have frequent and continuing contact with parents who have shown the ability to act in the best interest of their children and to encourage parents to share in the rights and ...

What is the 28 11 13 code of Alabama? ›

Section 28-11-13Unlawful for minors to purchase, use, possess, or transport tobacco, tobacco products, or alternative nicotine product. (a) It is unlawful for any minor to purchase, use, possess, or transport tobacco, tobacco product, or alternative nicotine product within this state.

What is Alabama Code 13 11 75? ›

(a) Except on land under his or her control or in his or her own abode or his or her own fixed place of business, no person shall carry a pistol in any vehicle or concealed on or about his or her person without a permit issued under Section 13A-11-75(a)(1) or recognized under Section 13A- 11-85.

Can a mother keep a child from the father in Alabama? ›

Many believe that a father cannot get custody in Alabama. Historically, Alabama laws did, in fact, favor the mother over the father, regardless of the facts and circ*mstances of the case. This is no longer true. However, child custody in Alabama is now decided based on the best interests of the children.

What is an unstable parent in Alabama? ›

If one parent engages in conduct that places the child's health, safety, or welfare at risk, that parent could be considered an unfit parent under Alabama law. This definition may sound straightforward.

Can my ex leave my child with his girlfriend overnight? ›

Yes, unless there is a risk to your child's safety, your ex can leave your child with his girlfriend.

What rights does a father have in Alabama? ›

A father's right to custody is recognized by courts in Alabama. The court will usually view time spent with both parents as being in the best interest of a child. The visitation schedule that a court imposes will be designed to provide a father with adequate time to form a meaningful familial bond with a child.

How do I get full custody in Alabama? ›

For a non-parent to get custody, the parents have to either give up their rights, be deceased, or the non-parent seeking custody has to prove that the parent is guilty of such bad misconduct or neglect that the parent is unfit and an improper person to be entrusted with the care and upbringing of the child.

Who has sole custody of a child in Alabama? ›

Alabama law states that the court may give custody to either the father or mother as the court deems right and proper after consideration of the moral character and prudence of the parents, as well as the age and sex of the children. Ala. Code § 30-3-1 (1975).

What is Rule 32 in Alabama child support? ›

Rule 32(G), Alabama Rules of Judicial Administration, provides that at least once every four years, the child-support guidelines and the schedule of basic child-support obligations be reviewed to ensure that their application results in appropriate child-support determinations.

Is child support mandatory in Alabama? ›

Generally, parents are obligated to support their children only as long as the kids are minors. In Alabama, children are no longer minors when they turn 19 or are legally emancipated before then. (Ala. Code § 26-1-1 (2022).)

How far can a parent move with joint custody in Alabama? ›

If the move is going to take you more than 60 miles from him, he can object to you moving with the child. If he has already moved more than 60 miles from you, he can object to any move that would increase the distance between you and him.

What is Alabama Code 6 8 69? ›

Whenever it becomes necessary to postpone any sale that has been advertised to occur on a certain day, the same may be postponed by the auctioneer or attorney announcing, at the time set for sale, the date to which said sale is postponed; and the original notice shall be published once again, with a statement at the ...

What is the 6 3 2 code of Alabama? ›

(1) All actions for the recovery of land, of the possession thereof, or for a trespass thereto must be commenced in the county where the land or a material part thereof lies.

What is Alabama Code 6 3 7? ›

Section 6-3-7 - Venue of actions - Against foreign and domestic corporations (a) All civil actions against corporations may be brought in any of the following counties: (1) In the county in which a substantial part of the events or omissions giving rise to the claim occurred, or a substantial part of real property that ...

What is Alabama Code 6 10 7? ›

Section 6-10-7 - Wages, salaries, or other compensation of laborers or employees for personal services (a) The wages, salaries, or other compensation of laborers or employees, residents of this state, for personal services, shall be exempt from levy under writs of garnishment or other process for the collection of ...

What is Rule 31 of Alabama Code 1975? ›

Procedure for making a parent, legal guardian, or legal custodian a party. (A) In any case in which a child is alleged to be dependent, the child's parent or parents, legal guardian, or legal custodian shall be considered a party or parties to the action.

What is Alabama Code 21 7? ›

A dog that is a service animal in training shall wear a harness, collar, leash, cape, or backpack that identifies in writing that the dog is a service animal in training. b.

Does a father have rights if not married in Alabama? ›

In Alabama, child custody can be shared by unmarried parents or given to just one. Alabama law presumes that joint custody is in the best interest of the child, so judges always consider it first when making custody rulings for unmarried parents.

Can a mother leave her child with the father? ›

If two parents are married, but there is no court order, one parent can technically take the child. If you have never been married, and there is no court order, the mother can basically do anything she wants until paternity has been established.

How long does a father have to be absent to lose his rights in Alabama? ›

recent 22 months, unless one of three statutory exceptions exists including a compelling reason not to pursue termination.

What makes a mother unfit for custody in Alabama? ›

The legal definition of an unfit parent is when the parent through their conduct fails to provide proper guidance, care, or support. Also, if there is abuse, neglect, or substance abuse issues, that parent will be deemed unfit.

What is the malicious parent syndrome? ›

What is Malicious Parent Syndrome? Malicious Parent Syndrome (MPS) is a type of vengeful behavior exhibited by some divorcing or separated parents. It occurs when a parent deliberately tries to place the other bad parent in a bad light and harm their child's relationship with them.

Do I have to let DHR in my home Alabama? ›

Never Let DHR Workers in Your Home Without a Warrant

Never allow a DHR worker to enter your home without a warrant.

Does having a boyfriend affect custody? ›

Can living with a new partner affect custody? Courts won't deny a parent custody or visitation solely because they live with a new partner. However, if the living situation is a risk to the child's physical safety or emotional well-being, the court may limit that parent's custody.

Can my ex dictate who is around my child? ›

Generally, Neither You Nor Your Ex Can Dictate Who Gets to Be Around Your Child. In most cases, neither parent has the right to determine who can be around their child. However, there are certain circ*mstances where the court must consider limiting contact with certain individuals.

What is inappropriate co-parenting while in a relationship? ›

Inappropriate co-parenting is a situation where parents experience so much conflict and resentment that they are unable to make decisions, make schedule changes when they are required, or address the major cruxes of parenting (like making healthcare decisions, education decisions, or religious decisions) without major ...

What are the custody laws in Alabama? ›

Under Alabama law, joint legal, joint physical, sole legal, and sole physical custody are options for separated parents, and the grandparents' visitation rights are recognized. Additionally, courts will consider the wishes of the child in custody matters. This is an introduction to child custody laws in Alabama.

How much is child support in Alabama? ›

The court orders a flat percentage of 25% of the non-custodial parent's income to be paid in child support to the custodial parent.

How much does it cost to go to court for child custody in Alabama? ›

Depending on your county, filing for a divorce on your own and seeking child custody independently typically costs between $200 – $300. You can review the do-it-yourself forms available for the purpose from the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts.

What is the first petition for child custody in Alabama? ›

The Alabama Petition for Child Custody is the form required for Alabama residents seeking custody of their children through the court. This petition must be filed in order to obtain a court order for child custody in the state of Alabama.

What is primary legal custody in Alabama? ›

Most divorce decrees in Alabama grant the parties “joint legal custody” with one parent having “primary physical custody.” This means that the children primarily live with one parent, but both parents have equal authority when it comes to decisions involving the children.

What is standard visitation in Alabama? ›

In the 2-2-5-5 schedule, the child has two days with one parent, two days with the other, then five days with one, five days with the other. An older child may spend one week with one parent, then the next week with the other. The exchange often happens at the end of the school week.

Can I leave the state with my child if there is no custody agreement Alabama? ›

Generally, a custodial parent (the parent with primary physical custody) has the right to relocate with the child out of state. But this right isn't absolute and in certain cases a court may prevent one parent from relocating to protect a child.

Who pays child support in 50 50 custody in Alabama? ›

Joint or shared custody doesn't negate a child support obligation. Even if both parents share equal charges, one parent will usually still owe some child support. The only exception would be if both parents earn the same amount of money and spend the same amount of time with the kids.

How does Alabama decide child support? ›

The total child-support obligation shall be divided between the parents in proportion to their adjusted gross incomes. The obligation of each parent is computed by multiplying the total child-support obligation by each parent's percentage share of their combined adjusted gross income.

How long does a father have to pay child support in Alabama? ›

Termination of Child Support. Generally speaking, child support obligations in Alabama will be owed until the child reaches the age of 19. That is considered the age of majority in this state.

Can child support be waived in Alabama? ›

Under Alabama law, Child Support CANNOT be waived. The Courts find that the Child Support is for the benefit of the child, and neither parent may waive child support requirements.

Is child support negotiable in Alabama? ›

The court may allow the parents to negotiate a written agreement with a different amount if they provide valid reasons for the deviation. Alabama courts may consider the following factors when determining child support: Each parent's income and earning capacity. Custodial arrangements.

Does getting married affect child support in Alabama? ›

Remarriage On Its Own Does Not Change Child Support

For example, if the custodial parent remarries someone with a high income, that doesn't mean the other parent's child support payments will decrease—the new partner's income is not part of the child support calculations. The same is true for the non-custodial parent.

At what age can a child in Alabama choose which parent to live with? ›

There is no specific age when Alabama courts must consider a child's opinion. Instead, the judge in each case must determine whether the child is mature enough to have a reasonable preference.

What is the code 30 3 166 in Alabama? ›

“Alabama law requires each party in this action who has either custody of or the right of visitation with a child to notify other parties who have custody of or the right of visitation with the child of any change in his or her address or telephone number, or both, and of any change or proposed change of principal ...

What is the Alabama Code 30 3 151? ›

(1) JOINT CUSTODY. Joint legal custody and joint physical custody. (2) JOINT LEGAL CUSTODY. Both parents have equal rights and responsibilities for major decisions concerning the child, including, but not limited to, the education of the child, health care, and religious training.

What is Alabama Code Title 28? ›

Title 28 - Intoxicating Liquor, Malt Beverages and Wine. Chapter 1 - General Provisions. Chapter 2 - Elections as to Sale and Distribution of Alcoholic Beverages Within Counties.

What is Alabama Code 28 11 16? ›

"(a)(1) A retailer or manufacturer of electronic nicotine delivery systems or alternative nicotine products may not advertise an electronic nicotine delivery system or an alternative nicotine product in any of the following ways: a. As a tobacco cessation product.

What is Alabama State Law Section 16 28 3? ›

Section 16-28-3 - Ages of children required to attend school; exemption for church school students; transfer students (a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b), every child between the ages of six and 17 years shall be required to attend a public school, private school, church school, or be instructed by a ...

What is Alabama Code Title 16 education 16 28B 3? ›

A statement of an intention to inflict pain, injury, damage, or other hostile action to cause fear of harm. The intention may be communicated through an electronic, written, verbal, or physical act to cause fear, mental distress, or interference in the school environment.

What is Alabama Code 13A 7? ›

Section 13A-7-7 - Burglary in the third degree (a) A person commits the crime of burglary in the third degree if any of the following occur: (1) He or she knowingly enters or remains unlawfully in a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime therein; (2) He or she knowingly enters or remains unlawfully in an occupied ...

What is Alabama Code 13A 7 21? ›

A person commits the crime of criminal mischief in the first degree if, with intent to damage property, and having no right to do so or any reasonable ground to believe that he/she has such a right, he/she inflicts damage to the property in an amount exceeding $2,500.00.

What is Alabama Code 13A 10? ›

(a) A person commits the crime of impersonating a public servant if he falsely pretends to be a public servant and does any act in that capacity. (b) It is no defense to a prosecution under this section that the office the actor pretended to hold did not in fact exist.

What is Alabama Code 12 15 122? ›

(a) After a petition alleging delinquency, in need of supervision, or dependency has been filed, the juvenile court shall direct the issuance of summonses to be directed to the child if he or she is 12 or more years of age, to the parents, legal guardian, or other legal custodian, and to other persons who appear to the ...

What is Alabama Code 16 13 231? ›

The local board of education shall provide a school term of at least 180 full instructional days, or the hourly equivalent of no less than 1080 instructional hours.

What is Alabama Code 13A 11 13? ›

Section 13A-11-13 - Abuse of corpse (a) A person commits the crime of abuse of a corpse if, except as otherwise authorized by law, he knowingly treats a human corpse in a way that would outrage ordinary family sensibilities.

What is Alabama statute 13a 10 40? ›

A person commits the crime of bail jumping in the second degree if, having been lawfully released from custody, with or without bail, upon condition that he/she will subsequently appear at a specified time and place in connection with a charge of his/her having committed any Class C felony or any misdemeanor, he/she ...

What is Alabama law Title 32? ›

Except as provided above, no person shall operate any trailer, as defined in this title, on any highway unless such trailer is operated for the purpose of constructing highways or other facilities of the state or a political subdivision thereof.

What is Alabama Code 36 27 16? ›

Code § 36-27-16. Current through Act 218 of the 2023 Regular Session. Section 36-27-16 - [Effective 8/1/2023] Retirement, etc., of employees; retirement allowances (a) (1) RETIREMENT, ETC., OF EMPLOYEES GENERALLY; ELIGIBILITY FOR SERVICE RETIREMENT BENEFITS.

What is Alabama Code 13A 10 16? ›

(e) Interference with public safety communication is a Class C Felony.

What is Alabama Code 13A 8 16? ›

(a) A person commits the crime of receiving stolen property if he intentionally receives, retains or disposes of stolen property knowing that it has been stolen or having reasonable grounds to believe it has been stolen, unless the property is received, retained or disposed of with intent to restore it to the owner.

What is Alabama Code 13A 13 3? ›

Section 13A-13-3 - Incest (a) A person commits incest if he marries or engages in sexual intercourse with a person he knows to be, either legitimately or illegitimately: (1) His ancestor or descendant by blood or adoption; or (2) His brother or sister of the whole or half-blood or by adoption; or (3) His stepchild or ...

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