What is a Ward of the State in New York?

A ward, also referred to as a guardianee, is a person for whom a guardian is appointed to make crucial life choices. Guardianship is a legal process in New York where the court designates an individual to oversee the personal and/or financial matters of a minor or incapacitated adult. Should both the primary guardian and their appointed successor prove unable to provide sufficient care for a child, and no other appropriate adult is available, the guardianee may be placed under the state's guardianship, becoming a ward of the state. This arrangement grants the government the authority to protect and supervise the child. Upon determining that a child does not have a competent parent or guardian to ensure their well-being, courts declare them state wards. Consequently, the state takes on the duty of deciding the child's living situation and guaranteeing their access to vital services, including education and health care. In most cases, state wards are placed with foster families or in group homes, where a government organization, such as the Department of Child and Family Services, closely oversees their welfare. Being a ward of the state is often a provisional arrangement that can be revoked once a suitable guardian is found for the child or incapacitated adult..

Should you need assistance in getting appointed as a guardian for a child or incapacitated adult in New York, we at the Law Offices of Albert Goodwin are here for you. We have offices in New York City, Brooklyn, NY and Queens, NY. You can call us at 212-233-1233 or send us an email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]).