Glossary Term
Wards of State
Glossary Term:
Wards of State
Definition
A ward means a child who is placed in the legal custody of the State or other agency, institution, or entity, consistent with applicable Federal, State, or local law. The term “ward of State” may be used interchangeably with “ward” in OPRS/IRB documents. For inclusion in a study, a number of additional considerations must be made.
In Illinois, wards are referred to as "Youth in Care".