Legal Definitions - temporary ward

A temporary ward is a minor who is under the supervision of a juvenile court but whose parents' parental rights have not been terminated. This means that the court is responsible for the child's well-being and safety until their parents can regain custody.

For example, if a child is removed from their home due to neglect or abuse, they may become a temporary ward of the court until their parents can address the issues that led to their removal and prove that they can provide a safe and stable home for the child.

It's important to note that a temporary ward is different from a permanent ward, who has been assigned a permanent guardian because their parents' rights have been terminated by a juvenile court.