In the context of divorce cases, child neglect can be defined as any form of failure to act in accordance with the duties of a parent. In some senses, the child neglect is viewed as a passive form of child abuse. During divorce proceedings, child suffering from child neglect by one spouse will often be given to the full-custody of the other parent. Additionally, if both parents are found unfit, the children may become wards of the state. In most cases, judges do not wish to separate children from their parents, however, if a parent presents a potential to harm or abuse a child, or simply cannot adequately take care of the child, the courts must act to remove the child from the presence of these individuals.