Provisional custody is a term referring to the temporary custody of a minor by a parent during litigation of a divorce, dissolution, or separation, or by someone other than the parents. Provisional custody by mandate is a notarized authorization, similar to a power of attorney, made by the child´s parent or parents to a person of legal age to provide care, custody, and control of a minor child. A provisional custody by mandate is governed by state laws, which vary by state. For example, state law may set a time limit on the validity of the document, such a one year or until terminated by the parent.
