Q: Is it legal for parents to take away my phone if I pay for it, as a minor in Virginia?
In the state of Virginia, I'm 15 years old, and I've been using my own money to pay for my phone. However, my parents took it away. Although the phone contract is under their name, they confiscated the phone because I went to track practice for a race instead of coming straight home to clean up the mess our dogs made while I was at school. Is it legal for them to take my phone in this situation?
A: Short answer: Yes. Their house; their rules. You are a minor, and it is their job to guide you and teach you. Sounds to me like they are doing a good job. It would be a great job if they succeeded at communicating the message that you need to perform your assigned duties to keep your mutual home clean and safe.
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