Ward
A person for whom a court has appointed a guardian.
What Ward means in an estate
When a court finds that someone cannot make their own decisions and appoints a guardian, that person becomes the ward, and the guardian may act only within the scope the court order sets. Some states have deliberately moved away from the word and use 'protected person' or 'person subject to guardianship' instead, so the vocabulary varies by state even where the legal effect is the same.
How this works in your state
The concept is national, but the forms, procedure names, thresholds, and filing practice vary by state. Open your state glossary and guides to see how ward is handled where the estate is being settled.
Related terms
Full probate glossary
Browse every probate and estate settlement term.
Probate assessment
Not sure what applies to your situation? Answer a few questions to find your path.
Information current as of April 4, 2026
Settled Estate is not a law firm, and this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in your state can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.