This article is an attempt to determine the meaning and role of family environment in the process of becoming an offender. It is impossible to omit the family conditions in the analysis of crime among minors. Portrayal of the contemporary family seems vital here. Family is the most important environment in an individual’s life and it has a forming influence on their personality and development. Experiences connected with family life influence later behaviour, decisions and an individual’s whole existence. The analysis on the condition of contemporary family, especially in the context of crime among minors, requires the discussion of the most typical dangers and problems that appear in family life and contribute to law-breaking among family’s youngest members. In the article I quote the research I conducted in 2007 among people under guardianship and on probation. I concluded that everyday functioning of the interviewees has some connection with their family life. It is important to note that in many cases family was the source of their problems with the law. This conclusion shows the importance of work towards supporting family in solving its difficulties in order to overcome critical situations and prevent crime among minors.