State Laws And Let Grow Updates in Arizona

Arizona Rev. Statute § 13-3619 provides that it is a class 1 misdemeanor to endanger the health or “moral welfare” of a minor under sixteen by neglect, abuse or “immoral associations.” Arizona Rev. Stats. § 13-1201 defines criminal child endangerment as “recklessly endangering another person with a substantial risk of imminent death or physical injury.” This is a vague statute that could include decisions to allow a child to be alone, depending on the circumstances.

“Neglect” or “neglected child” under Arizona Revised Statues Section 8-201(25) includes the inability or unwillingness of a parent, guardian or custodian of a child to provide that child with supervision. Positive guidance in the child welfare manual (Department of Child Safety Guidance) provides a tighter definition of lack of supervision as requiring the child to be left alone “now or on a daily basis” or with a person unwilling or unable to provide adequate care.”

This webpage is not a legal document, and Let Grow does not take responsibility for the content. Be mindful that some localities have rules and guidelines even when the state does not. When in doubt, consult your local authorities to confirm the laws where you live. What’s more, laws change, as do judicial interpretations of them, and this webpage may not be updated immediately.