Pennsylvania § 5504 - Establishing liability in civil proceedings.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5504 — Establishing liability in civil proceedings., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5504. Establishing liability in civil proceedings.
(a) Petition.--If a judgment has been rendered against the child in a civil action for injury because of the tortious act of the child and the judgment has not been satisfied within a period of 30 days, the injured person may petition the court for a rule to show cause why judgment should not be entered against the parent.
(b) Answer and trial.--The parent may file an answer to the petition, and, if there is any dispute as to unlitigated facts, the case shall be set down for trial.
(c) Judgment.--If there is no dispute as to the unlitigated facts, the court shall authorize the entry of a judgment against the parent. In no case shall the judgment against the parent exceed the limitations set forth in section 5505 (relating to monetary limits of liability).
(d) Action against parent.--Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary, a victim of a willful, tortious act of a child may initiate a civil action directly against the parent or parents of the child who committed the tortious act for the purpose of receiving compensation for the injuries suffered, not to exceed the limitations set forth in section 5505.
(Apr. 21, 1994, P.L.128, No.15, eff. 60 days)
1994 Amendment. Act 15 added subsec. (d).
Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 5504
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5504 cover?
Section 5504 ("Establishing liability in civil proceedings.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Pennsylvania § 5504?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5504" (Pennsylvania). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 5504 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania.