Guardian
Guardian: A person appointed by a court with the legal authority and duty to care for another person, called a ward — such as a minor or an adult who cannot manage his or her own affairs — or the ward's property. A guardian ad litem is appointed to protect the interests of a minor or incompetent person in a particular lawsuit (Fed. R. Civ. P. 17(c)(2)).
What guardian means
In practice, you will see guardian in pleadings, motions, orders and court rules. The definition above explains the general meaning. Even so, the meaning can shift with context. Therefore, always read it alongside the rule or document where it appears.
Where guardian comes up
The term is used across many kinds of cases. For example, you may see it in pleadings, motions and court orders. To see it in context, browse the motions and procedures library or the Learn the Law topics.
How to research the term
To research guardian, begin with the rule, statute or contract where the word is used. Each one can give it a slightly different meaning. Then compare that text with how courts in your area have applied it. Also check the local rules of your court, since they can add requirements. If your case is in state court, the state rules control. So start with our state procedures guide to find them. In the end, always confirm that the source you rely on is current.
You can read the current federal court rules online for free.
Related legal terms
- Good faith: honesty of intention, without intent to defraud or take unfair advantage.
- Government: the institutions and officials through which a political community makes and enforces its laws.
- Grant deed: a deed used in California and some other states in which the grantor, by using the word "grant" to convey the property, makes two promises implied by law unless the deed says otherwise: that the grantor has not already conveyed the property or any interest in it to someone else, and that the property is free from encumbrances made or allowed by the grantor or anyone claiming under the grantor (Cal.
- Grantor trust: for federal income tax purposes, a trust whose income is taxed to the grantor (settlor) because the grantor keeps certain powers or interests, under 26 U.S.C. §§ 671 to 679. A revocable trust is usually a grantor trust.
Why precise terms matter
Legal words often look like everyday words, but they can carry a precise meaning. Because of that, a small misreading can change how you understand a deadline, a duty or a right. Our glossary keeps each definition short and links it to the procedures where it matters.
Sources
Sources last reviewed: 2026-10-24
Lawtopolis provides legal information and education, not legal advice. Using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and court rules vary by jurisdiction and change over time; verify every authority against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your situation.