Family Law and Public Policy

Book excerpt: Family law and public policy reflect our society’s evolving social commitments and ethical norms and behaviors, making it a key area of study in the fields of sociology, psychology, gender studies, criminology, mediation, social work, and many others. Family Law and Public Policy combines pertinent, concise, up-to-date information on family law as it forms and is informed by public policy on such central issues as the care, protection, and social and economic support of children; the nature, formation, and dissolution of marriage and other adult relationships; and surrogacy and adoption. Using three formats—succinct explanations; engaging, relevant readings from articles, statutes, and case law; and provocative questions prompting students to more deeply examine, understand, and critique the topics—Family Law and Public Policy covers all traditional and developing areas of family law and includes background and pointers on affecting, creating, and writing policy.