Parens Patriae

Business, Legal & Accounting Glossary

Definition: Parens Patriae


Parens Patriae


What is the dictionary definition of Parens Patriae?

Dictionary Definition


(paa-rens pat-tree-eye) n. Latin for “father of his country,” the term for the doctrine that the government is the ultimate guardian of all people under a disability, especially children, whose care is only “entrusted” to their parents.

Under this doctrine, in a divorce action or a guardianship application the court retains jurisdiction until the child is 18 years old, and a judge may change custody, child support or other rulings affecting the child’s well-being, no matter what the parents may have agreed or the court previously decided.


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Definition Sources


Definitions for Parens Patriae are sourced/syndicated and enhanced from:

  • A Dictionary of Economics (Oxford Quick Reference)
  • Oxford Dictionary Of Accounting
  • Oxford Dictionary Of Business & Management

This glossary post was last updated: 29th April, 2020 | 0 Views.