Inklingo

How to Say "custody" in Spanish

English → Spanish

custodia

/koos-TOH-dee-ah//kusˈto.ðja/

nounB2legal, formal
Use 'custodia' when referring specifically to the legal right of guardianship and care of a child, especially after a separation or divorce.
A protective adult figure holding the hand of a small child firmly and gently, illustrating legal guardianship.

Examples

Después del divorcio, la custodia de los niños fue para el padre.

After the divorce, the custody of the children went to the father.

Ellos están luchando por obtener la custodia compartida.

They are fighting to obtain joint custody.

Using 'La Custodia'

Since 'custodia' is always feminine, you must use feminine articles and adjectives with it (e.g., 'la custodia', 'una custodia difícil').

guarda

GWAR-dah/ˈɡwaɾða/

nounB2legal, formal
Choose 'guarda' for the legal care and responsibility of a person (like a child) or an object, often granted by a judge.
A person gently holding a fragile, potted sapling plant with both hands, showing careful protection.

Examples

El juez decidió otorgarle la guarda de los niños a la madre.

The judge decided to grant custody of the children to the mother.

La guarda de los documentos históricos es vital.

The keeping (custody) of the historical documents is vital.

Formal Context

This meaning is typically used in legal or very formal settings, often replacing the more common word 'custodia'.

posesión

nounA2general, legal
Use 'posesión' when 'custody' implies physical control, possession, or ownership, rather than legal guardianship.

Examples

La posesión de esa tierra ha sido disputada por años.

The possession of that land has been disputed for years.

Custodia vs. Guarda

Learners often confuse 'custodia' and 'guarda' as they both relate to child care. While similar, 'custodia' is more narrowly focused on the legal right of a parent, whereas 'guarda' can be broader and may apply to objects or non-parental figures.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.