What doctrine underpins the establishment of juvenile courts and holds that the state acts as guardian for children?

• A. Ex post facto
• B. Parens patriae
• C. Res judicata
• D. Stare decisis

Answer: (B)

Parens patriae is the doctrine that the state acts as guardian for those who cannot protect themselves, especially children. This principle justifies intervention to protect a child’s welfare and to provide care, education, or rehabilitation, rather than treating juveniles purely as criminals. The juvenile court system grew from this idea, emphasizing welfare and rehabilitation to guide young people toward positive outcomes. The other doctrines aren’t about the state stepping in as a protector for children—ex post facto concerns retroactive laws, res judicata concerns matters that have been finally decided, and stare decisis deals with following precedent.