§ 3950 Parental Neglect Of Child

Family Code·California

AI SummaryReview recommended

If a parent doesn't give a child the things they need, another person can give those things and then ask the parent to pay back the fair cost.

Key Takeaways

•Parents must supply the basics their child needs.
•If they fail, anyone else can step in and give those basics.
•The helper can recover the reasonable cost from the parent.
•The helper must act in good faith and not charge extra.

Example

A single mom forgets to buy diapers for her baby. The neighbor buys a pack of diapers and gives them to the baby.

Because the mom didn't provide the diapers, the neighbor can ask her to pay back what the diapers cost, as long as the neighbor acted honestly and didn't overcharge.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 3950 Parental Neglect Of Child

If a parent neglects to provide articles necessary for the parent’s child who is under the charge of the parent, according to the circumstances of the parent, a third person may in good faith supply the necessaries and recover their reasonable value from the parent.

Last verified: February 26, 2026

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Family Code. Section 3950.

Key Takeaways

Example

Related Statutes

References

Key Takeaways

Example

Related Statutes

References