Can Parents Sign Away Their Child’s Rights? Pennsylvania’s High Court Says No

On September 25, 2025, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court issued a major decision that strengthens protections for children injured at recreational facilities like trampoline parks. In a case involving Sky Zone, the Court ruled that parents cannot waive their child’s right to bring an injury claim in court, even if they signed a liability waiver or arbitration agreement beforehand .

What Happened

Two families sued after their young children were hurt at Sky Zone trampoline parks in Philadelphia. In both cases, only one parent signed Sky Zone’s “Participation Agreement”, which included:

• A liability waiver

• An arbitration clause (requiring disputes to be handled privately instead of in court)

• A shortened one-year deadline to bring claims

Sky Zone argued that these signed agreements barred the children and the non-signing parent from pursuing lawsuits in court.

The Court’s Ruling

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court rejected Sky Zone’s position and affirmed the rights of families:

1. One parent cannot bind the other. Marriage alone does not create legal “agency.” Unless expressly authorized, a spouse cannot sign away the other’s rights.

2. Parents cannot bind their children. A child’s legal claims are considered the child’s “property,” and Pennsylvania law requires court oversight (through a guardian or judge) before those rights can be waived or compromised.

3. Arbitration removes vital safeguards. Unlike court, arbitration lacks judicial oversight and protections designed to ensure a minor’s best interests. Forcing a child’s claim into arbitration would improperly strip away those safeguards.

In short: parents do not have the authority to sign away their children’s future claims for personal injuries at facilities like Sky Zone .

Why This Matters for Families

• Your child’s rights are protected. Even if you signed a waiver at a trampoline park, amusement park, or sports facility, your child may still have the right to bring a claim in court if injured.

• Businesses cannot hide behind waivers. Facilities must maintain safe environments for children. They cannot rely on fine-print waivers to avoid accountability.

• Both parents’ rights matter. If one parent didn’t sign, their independent claims (like medical expenses) remain intact.

The Bigger Picture

This decision reaffirms Pennsylvania’s strong public policy of protecting minors. It sends a clear message: companies cannot use arbitration clauses or liability waivers to sidestep responsibility when children are harmed.

What to Do if Your Child Is Hurt at a Recreational Facility

• Get medical attention first. Document the injury and treatment.

• Preserve evidence. Take photos, save receipts, and note any witnesses.

• Don’t assume you “signed away” your rights. As this case shows, those agreements may not be enforceable.

• Talk to an attorney experienced in child injury cases. An experienced lawyer can explain your family’s options and protect your child’s legal rights.

Bottom line: In Pennsylvania, your child’s right to justice comes first—no waiver or arbitration clause can take that away.

👉 If your child has been injured at a trampoline park, amusement park, or sports facility, contact our firm for a free case evaluation. We’ll help you understand your rights and hold negligent businesses accountable.