In regards to tort law:

New York State does not have a statute which recognizes a "privilege" between a parent and child. However it does recognize a privilege between spouses. This means that the spouse cannot be forced to testify about conversations with the other spouse, but a parent can be forced to testify regarding statements made to the parent by his or her child. Why do you think that law evolved this way? Is it fair? Should the law be changed and why? (New York courts might recognize a sort of "common law" parent/child privilege in certain circumstances. But more on that later.)