Children's services

Wardship

What is wardship?

Wardship is when the High Court becomes your legal guardian. If this happens, you become a ‘ward of court’. This means that no important decisions about you can be made without the High Court’s permission. Wardship is only used in special situations, like if you’re in serious danger or at risk of harm.

When might wardship be used?

  • If there’s a risk of forced marriage
  • In cases involving terrorism or radicalisation
  • When someone is putting you in a dangerous situation
  • If you need emergency medical treatment
  • If you’ve been taken to another country without permission

Wardship ends when you turn 18 or if the court ends it before.

On this page
What is wardship?
When might wardship be used?

This information is correct at the time of writing, July 7, 2025. The law in this area is subject to change.

Coram Children’s Legal Centre cannot be held responsible if changes to the law outdate this publication. Individuals may print or photocopy information in CCLC publications for their personal use.

Professionals, organisations and institutions must obtain permission from the CCLC to print or photocopy our publications in full or in part.

This information is correct at the time of writing, July 7, 2025. The law in this area is subject to change.

Coram Children’s Legal Centre cannot be held responsible if changes to the law outdate this publication. Individuals may print or photocopy information in CCLC publications for their personal use.

Professionals, organisations and institutions must obtain permission from the CCLC to print or photocopy our publications in full or in part.