2006 Utah Code - 78-11-20 — Property damage caused by a minor -- Liability of parent or legal guardian.

     78-11-20.   Property damage caused by a minor -- Liability of parent or legal guardian.
     (1) The parent or legal guardian having legal custody of the minor is liable for damages sustained to property not to exceed $2,000 when:
     (a) the minor intentionally damages, defaces, destroys, or takes the property of another;
     (b) the minor recklessly or willfully shoots or propels a missile, or other object at or against a motor vehicle, bus, airplane, boat, locomotive, train, railway car, or caboose, whether moving or standing; or
     (c) the minor intentionally and unlawfully tampers with the property of another and thereby recklessly endangers human life or recklessly causes or threatens a substantial interruption or impairment of any public utility service.
     (2) For purposes of this section, Subsection (1)(a) or (c) includes graffiti, as defined in Section 76-6-107.
     (3) A court may waive part or all of the liability for damages by the parent or legal guardian if the offender is adjudicated in the juvenile court under Section 78-3a-118 only:
     (a) upon a finding of good cause; or
     (b) if the parent or legal guardian:
     (i) made a reasonable effort to restrain the wrongful conduct; and
     (ii) reported it to the property owner involved or the law enforcement agency having primary jurisdiction after he knew of the minor's unlawful act. No report is required under this section from a parent or legal guardian if the minor was arrested or apprehended by a peace officer or by anyone acting on behalf of the property owner involved.

Amended by Chapter 365, 1997 General Session