Parental Authority
/ˈpɛrəntl ɔːˈθɒrɪti/
Definitions
- (n.) The legal rights and responsibilities parents have to make decisions for their minor children, including care, custody, and control.
Parental authority includes the duty to provide education and medical care for the child.
Forms
- parental authority
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Parental authority encompasses both the rights and duties of parents, distinct from custody which may be awarded by courts; usage varies by jurisdiction regarding the extent of decision-making power.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.