This course provides a comprehensive examination of Family Law in the United States, focusing on the legal regulation of personal relationships, marriage, parenthood, separation, and family dissolution. Students will engage with state and federal constitutional law, uniform statutes, case law, and public policy that govern family formation and dissolution.
Major themes include the legal requirements and consequences of marriage, cohabitation, divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, property division, parental rights, adoption, and assisted reproductive technologies. Attention is also given to the evolving definitions of family in light of same-sex marriage, non-traditional parenting, cultural diversity, and gender justice.
Students will explore both litigation and negotiation-based models for resolving family disputes, and critically evaluate the role of law in mediating personal relationships, power dynamics, and societal norms.
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
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Understand the legal framework governing marriage, divorce, and parenthood, including both constitutional and statutory foundations.
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Analyze the principles and policies underlying child custody, support, alimony, and property division.
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Assess legal issues related to non-marital families, LGBTQ+ relationships, and blended families.
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Navigate legal questions related to assisted reproductive technology (ART), surrogacy, and adoption.
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Evaluate the roles of courts, legislatures, and administrative agencies in shaping family law.
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Apply family law doctrine to realistic disputes and policy problems with cultural sensitivity and constitutional awareness.
