LearnOutside CaregiverInside Parent
Know the Language: Custody, Guardianship, and Kinship Care
Plain-language definitions of the three terms families mix up most often.
About 4 min read
Includes a link to U.S. Courts
Module 4 · Topic
Know the Language
Plain-language explanations of terms families hear often, from custody and guardianship to parole, reentry, and power of attorney.
Learn → Talk → Act · 5 resources
Educational information only. The information provided through The #FKLM Family Blueprint is for general educational purposes and is not legal advice. Laws and policies differ by jurisdiction and may change. Families needing advice about their individual circumstances should consult an appropriately qualified attorney or legal-services organization.
Resources in this topic
Open in the full library- LearnOutside CaregiverInside Parent
Know the Language: Parole, Probation, and Reentry
What supervision terms generally mean and why the differences matter to a family's planning.
About 4 min read
- LearnOutside CaregiverInside Parent
Know the Language: Power of Attorney, Consent, and Authorization
The paperwork terms that decide who may act on a child's behalf.
About 5 min read
- LearnOutside CaregiverInside Parent
Guardianship, Custody, and Power of Attorney
What these three terms generally mean and why the difference matters for caregivers.
About 6 min read
Includes a link to USA.gov — Legal Aid
- LearnOutside CaregiverYouth / Young Adult
Courtroom Words Families Hear Most
A short glossary of hearing, sentencing, and supervision terms in plain language.
About 5 min read
Includes a link to U.S. Courts
More topics in Legal & Policy Literacy
Family & Caregiver Questions
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Educational resources on phone communication, video communication, visitation, mail, and approved contacts. Rules vary by facility.
4 resourcesReentry & Family Preparation
Preparing for release, identification and documentation, employment, housing, benefits, changing family roles, expectations, and rebuilding routines.
4 resourcesFind Reliable Help
Pathways to legal aid, government agencies, court self-help resources, reentry organizations, family advocacy organizations, and youth advocacy organizations.
4 resources
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