Ward (law)
Ward, in law, a person who is considered incapable of handling his own affairs and whose interests are put into the hands of a guardian. A guardian may be appointed by a court or by a parent. A ward is usually a minor, and his guardian is usually a private individual. Mentally or otherwise incompetent persons may also be declared wards by a court, with the court or a city, county, or state government acting as guardian.
A person remains a ward until he is judged capable of handling his own affairs. A minor ceases to be a ward when he comes of age (usually at 18 or 21 years).