Can you be liable for a negligent act of your spouse?
Serge Semirog
In North Carolina, spouses have complete immunity for torts and negligence of each other.
Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 52‑12, no married person can be held liable for damages accruing from any tort committed by his or her spouse, or for any costs or fines incurred in any criminal proceeding against such spouse.
Likewise, marriage does not affect tort liability incurred by one spouse before marriage.
On the other hand, a husband and wife can have a cause of action against each other to recover damages sustained to their person or property as if they were unmarried.