A ward refers to a person who is under the care and protection of a guardian, typically a minor. There are various types of wards, including permanent wards who have a designated guardian and temporary wards who are supervised by a juvenile court. In the past, a ward-in-chancery denoted an infant under the oversight of the chancellor. A ward of admiralty is a seaman who is considered a beneficiary in contractual matters. A ward of the state is an individual who is looked after by the government. Additionally, ward can also indicate a territorial division within a city or the act of guarding or protecting something or someone.
A ward-in-chancery is an individual, typically a minor, who is under the guardianship or care of a guardian. This term is commonly used in legal contexts. For instance, a permanent ward is a minor who has been assigned a permanent guardian due to the termination of the natural parents’ rights by a juvenile court. Conversely, a temporary ward is a minor under the supervision of a juvenile court, but whose parental rights have not been terminated. Another example is a ward of the state, which refers to a person housed by the government and provided with protection and necessities. In summary, a ward-in-chancery is a legal term for a person under the guardianship or care of a guardian, typically a minor. The examples demonstrate various types of wards and their legal status.
A Ward-In-Chancery is a legal term used to describe a minor who is under the protection of a court, typically due to the absence or incapacity of their parents or guardians.
A minor may become a Ward-In-Chancery through a court order, typically in cases where the minor’s parents are unable to care for them or make decisions on their behalf.
Guardians of a Ward-In-Chancery have the legal authority to make decisions regarding the minor’s care, education, and finances, as well as to provide for their overall well-being.
In some cases, a Ward-In-Chancery may be eligible for adoption if their parents’ rights have been terminated or if it is in the best interest of the minor.
The court has the responsibility to ensure that the Ward-In-Chancery is being properly cared for and that their best interests are being upheld by their guardian.
In some cases, a Ward-In-Chancery may have the right to request a change of guardian if they believe that their current guardian is not acting in their best interest.
When a Ward-In-Chancery reaches the age of majority, typically 18 years old, they are no longer under the protection of the court and are considered legally responsible for themselves.
In some cases, a Ward-In-Chancery may petition the court for emancipation, which would grant them legal independence from their guardian before reaching the age of majority.
A guardian is legally obligated to provide for the Ward-In-Chancery’s basic needs, including food, shelter, and education, as well as to act in their best interest in all matters.
To become a guardian for a Ward-In-Chancery, an individual must typically petition the court and demonstrate their ability to provide for the minor’s needs and act in their best interest.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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