You may ever hear where a child or an adult becomes a ward of the state. But you do not know what exactly a ward of the state is. Well, on this page, we will inform you about the definition of a ward of the state. So, make sure you will read this entire article carefully.
Definition of a Ward of the State
A ward of the state is an individual (a child, an adult, or an elderly person) who has become the direct legal responsibility of the state court. Usually, this case can happen when a child loses his/her parents and has no family members that can act as the guardian. Or, this situation can occur when an adult is unable to care for himself/herself due to disease or disability. Also, an elderly person can be a ward of the state when he/she loses all caregivers.
Basically, a ward of the state is under the state’s care through one or more of its agencies. A ward of the state will have the guardian. Usually, the guardian will have responsibility to manage all the ward of the state’s needs related to financial, medical, and other. After the guardian is appointed by the state, then they will have similar tasks and powers to a guardian who is a family member.
We get information that in some states, a ward of the state is an individual who has been or currently is incarcerated. But actually, the use of the term “ward of the state” usually refers to a person who is under the guardianship of the state court.
How Does a Child or an Adult Become a Ward of the State?
Apparently, there are many children who become the ward of the State. They become the ward of the State when the court trusts that they are really neglected, abused, and are in danger. Now, try to imagine this situation. When you do not have parents and other family members, we are sure that you will be sad and hopeless. So, to protect the children in this position, the state court decided them to be the ward of the State. Of course, the children who become the ward of the State, they will be protected and feel safe.
Need to know that there is no age limit on becoming a ward of the state. An adult and elderly person can also become the ward of the state. There are some factors that make an adult become the ward of the state. One of the factors is incapable of caring for their health and safety. The main factor why an adult becomes a ward of the state is disabilities or Mental and physical impairments.
The court will appoint a guardian to make decisions for the interest of the ward of the state. In this case, a guardian has responsibility to make all decisions related to the needs of the ward of the state, especially related to finances and medical care. Also, the guardian must ensure that the ward of the state receives healthcare and eligible benefits from the state.
A bookworm and researcher especially related to law and citizenship education. I spend time every day in front of the internet and the campus library.
