Next friend

{
  "id": "MLC-T-LAW-003397",
  "term": "Next friend",
  "field": "Law",
  "definition": "A person who sues on behalf of a minor or other individual unable to manage their own legal affairs, without being formally appointed that person's guardian. The next friend is not a party, and the person represented remains the real party in interest while the court retains power to protect that person. Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 17(c) lets an unrepresented minor or incompetent person sue through a next friend or a guardian ad litem.",
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/law/next-friend/"
}