Legal Definitions - regent

A regent is a person who has the power to rule over a kingdom when the king or queen is too young, sick, or absent. They act as a temporary ruler until the rightful monarch can resume their duties.

For example, when Queen Elizabeth II was a child, her father King George VI served as regent until she came of age to take the throne.

Regents can also be governors or rulers of a territory or state. For instance, the governor of a state in the United States is a type of regent.

In addition, a regent can be a member of the governing board of a university, especially a state university. They help make important decisions about the school's policies and direction.

Lastly, in Ecclesiastical law, a regent can be a master or professor of a college. They have a leadership role in the academic community and help guide students in their studies.