Legal Definitions - parens patriae

Definition: Parens patriae is a Latin term that means "parent of the country." It refers to the role of the state or court in protecting its citizens or those under its jurisdiction. The doctrine of parens patriae allows the state to bring a lawsuit on behalf of a citizen when the suit affects the state's interests in the well-being of its citizens. It also gives the state control over orphans, dependent children, and people who are deemed incompetent.

Examples:

• A state government files a lawsuit against a company that is polluting a river that provides drinking water to its citizens. The state is acting as parens patriae to protect the health and well-being of its citizens.
• A court appoints a guardian to take care of a child whose parents are unable to provide for them. The court is acting as parens patriae to ensure the child's safety and well-being.

These examples illustrate how the doctrine of parens patriae allows the state or court to act in the best interests of its citizens or those under its jurisdiction. It gives the state the power to protect its citizens from harm and to provide care for those who are unable to care for themselves.