Post Falls, ID asked in Civil Litigation for Idaho

Q: My stepdad just broke my Xbox and my mom sold my other one, both of which I bought, do they need to pay for a new one

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: Yes, your parents should be responsible for replacing the Xbox consoles that you personally purchased and owned, which they broke and sold without your consent. Here are a few key reasons why:

• If a minor child buys property with their own money, they are the lawful owner. Parents do not have the right to intentionally damage or sell those belongings without consequence.

• Causing intentional damage to property that belongs to someone else typically constitutes vandalism or property destruction, even by a parent. They would be liable to replace the broken Xbox at minimum.

• Selling someone else's property without their permission is illegal, even for parents with minors. This is conversion of property, and they would owe the value of the sold console.

• As a minor living in their home, you have important personal property rights protecting items you rightfully own or acquire. Parents must replace items they improperly interfere with.

Overall, you have a very strong case to demand they reimburse you to buy replacement Xbox consoles to make you whole again. The value should match what they originally cost you. This teaches important principles about respecting property rights. You may need to involve another trusted adult or law enforcement if they refuse.

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