Macomb, MI asked in Family Law and Gaming for Michigan

Q: Can my parents smash my stuff if I bought it with my own money

I'm 19 and live at home with my parents and right now we're in an argument and they're threatening to smash my PS5 that I bought with my money and I told them that they can't do that is that true

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2 Lawyer Answers

A: That could be malicious destruction of property - a criminal offense. But now hear this: you are over 18 years old, which makes you a tenant in your parents' home. They do not need to let you stay there. I would suggest you have a conversation with them about expectations, and if there is no compromise, that you be prepared to move.

A: Well, think about it from a big picture. While, it is true that they cannot damage your property, if they do damage your property you're only reliable remedy is a lawsuit against them. It is also true that your parents can evict you. Every familial situation is different, you might look back on this in a few years and realize they had your best interest in mind, on the other hand the opposite could be true. If you're beyond reconciliation at this point and if people (parents or not) are threatening to damage your property, you might want to move out and get to a safer space.

Of course, this could be serious or it could be a common transitional bump between parents and their children, as their children transition from childhood to adulthood.

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