Family Law in Perspective

The Fifth Edition of the Perspectives book provides insight into the ever-changing parameters of laws pertaining to family structure and responsibilities, including nonmarital cohabitation, paternity establishment, premarital and marital contracting, assisted reproductive technology, marriage, and divorce. Recent cases and statutes address topics such as surrogacy agreements, property division, child support guidelines, and custody rights. It also discusses equal protection, liberty interest, and free exercise in the context of same-sex relationships, partner and child safety, and termination of parental rights and possible adoption of minors.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 30 October 2021
Publisher: West Academic Publishing

The Fifth Edition of the Perspectives book, a valuable resource for students, practitioners, and observers alike, remains steadfast in its commitment to shedding light on the ever-evolving dynamics of laws pertaining to family structure and responsibilities. This comprehensive volume delves into a wide range of topics, including nonmarital cohabitation, paternity establishment, premarital and marital contracting, assisted reproductive technology, marriage, and divorce. In addition, it addresses pressing issues such as surrogacy agreements, property division upon dissolution of cohabitation or divorce, child support guidelines, and custody rights through parenting agreements or what is deemed in the best interest of the child. Furthermore, the book continues to explore the realm of equal protection, liberty interests, and free exercise in the context of same-sex relationships, the safety of partners and children, and the termination of parental rights and potential adoption of minors. The Perspectives book aims to offer readers a comprehensive understanding of the current legal landscape and a glimpse into the potential future directions of family law.

Nonmarital Cohabitation:
The book explores the growing phenomenon of nonmarital cohabitation, which has become increasingly prevalent in modern society. It examines the legal implications and rights of individuals who live together without being married, including property ownership, custody, and support. The chapter also discusses the challenges faced by nonmarital cohabitants in accessing legal benefits and protections, such as health insurance and inheritance rights.

Establishment of Paternity:
The establishment of paternity is a crucial legal process that establishes the legal fatherhood of a child. The book provides an in-depth explanation of the various methods of paternity establishment, including genetic testing, presumption of paternity, and voluntary acknowledgment of paternity. It also discusses the rights and responsibilities of both parents and the legal consequences of failing to establish paternity.

Premarital and Marital Contracting:
Premarital and marital contracting have become increasingly popular in recent years as couples seek to protect their assets and interests before entering into marriage. The book discusses the legal implications of prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, as well as the rights and obligations of both parties in the event of a divorce or separation. It also explores the use of alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation and arbitration, to resolve marital disputes.

Assisted Reproductive Technology:
Assisted reproductive technology, such as in vitro fertilization and surrogacy, has revolutionized the way couples conceive and have children. The book provides an overview of the legal aspects of assisted reproductive technology, including the requirements for obtaining legal parental status and the rights and responsibilities of both parents and the intended parents. It also discusses the ethical and social considerations surrounding assisted reproductive technology.

Marriage:
Marriage is a fundamental legal institution that establishes the rights and responsibilities of couples and their children. The book explores the legal requirements for marriage, including the age of consent, the validity of marriage, and the legal consequences of divorce. It also discusses the rights and responsibilities of married couples, including property ownership, spousal support, and child custody.

Divorce:
Divorce is a legal process that ends a marriage and divides the marital assets and responsibilities between the parties. The book provides an overview of the legal process for divorce, including the requirements for filing for divorce, the division of assets and liabilities, and the issues of alimony and child support. It also discusses the legal consequences of divorce, such as custody rights and property ownership.

Surrogacy Agreements:
Surrogacy agreements are legal agreements between a woman who agrees to carry and give birth to a child for another person or couple. The book discusses the legal requirements for surrogacy agreements, including the rights and responsibilities of both the surrogate mother and the intended parents. It also explores the ethical and social considerations surrounding surrogacy.

Property Division upon Dissolution of Cohabitation or Divorce:
Property division upon dissolution of cohabitation or divorce is a complex legal process that involves the division of assets and liabilities between the parties. The book provides an overview of the legal principles governing property division, including the concept of equitable distribution and the factors that courts consider when making property division decisions.

Child Support Guidelines:
Child support guidelines are legal guidelines that establish the amount of child support that a parent is required to pay to the other parent for the support of their children. The book discusses the legal requirements for child support, including the calculation of child support amounts and the factors that courts consider when determining child support amounts. It also discusses the rights and responsibilities of both parents in the context of child support.

Establishing Custody Rights through Parenting Agreements or What is Considered in the Best Interest of the Child:
Establishing custody rights through parenting agreements or what is considered in the best interest of the child is a critical legal process that involves the determination of who will have legal and physical custody of a child. The book provides an overview of the legal principles governing custody decisions, including the concept of joint custody and the factors that courts consider when making custody decisions. It also discusses the rights and responsibilities of both parents in the context of custody.

Equal Protection, Liberty Interest, and Free Exercise in the Context of Same-Sex Relationships:
Same-sex relationships have gained legal recognition and protection in many countries around the world. The book explores the legal implications of same-sex relationships, including the rights and responsibilities of same-sex couples, the legal recognition of same-sex marriages, and the protection of same-sex couples from discrimination. It also discusses the ethical and social considerations surrounding same-sex relationships.

Safety of Partners and Children:
The safety of partners and children is a critical concern in the context of family law. The book discusses the legal protections available to victims of domestic violence, including restraining orders and protective orders. It also discusses the legal responsibilities of parents to protect their children from harm, including the duty to provide a safe and secure environment for their children.

Termination of Parental Rights and Possible Adoption of Minors:
Termination of parental rights and possible adoption of minors are legal processes that involve the removal of parental rights and the placement of a child with another person or couple. The book provides an overview of the legal requirements for termination of parental rights, including the grounds for termination and the process for terminating parental rights. It also discusses the legal considerations for adoption of minors, including the requirements for adoption and the rights and responsibilities of both the adoptive parents and the child.

Conclusion:
The Perspectives book is a valuable resource for students, practitioners, and observers of family law. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of the legal principles and practices governing family law. By exploring a wide range of topics, including nonmarital cohabitation, paternity establishment, premarital and marital contracting, assisted reproductive technology, marriage, divorce, surrogacy agreements, property division, child support guidelines, custody rights, equal protection, liberty interest, and free exercise in the context of same-sex relationships, the safety of partners and children, and termination of parental rights and possible adoption of minors, the book seeks to provide readers with a grasp of what is currently the law and a glimpse into where the law may be going. As family law continues to evolve and adapt to the changing social and cultural landscape, the Perspectives book will remain an essential tool for those seeking to stay informed and up-to-date on the latest developments in this field.

Weight: 378g
Dimension: 160 x 237 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781636590691
Edition number: 5 Revised edition