Wadlington and O'Brien's Family Law in Perspective, 3d (Concepts and Insights Series)

Continuing the approach of the previous editions, this book offers a conceptual approach to the legal issues implicit in family law. It describes the developments of: • Alternatives to marriage• Same-sex marriage• The expansion of assisted reproductive technology and gestational surrogacy Spousal and child support continue to be addressed at the state level through:• Expanding definitions of what constitutes property• The need to limit the duration of spousal support• The presumptive value of child support statutes Federal statutes have demanded greater support enforcement at the state level, and Congress retains control over ERISA, Social Security, and military benefits.