LAW-647 : Family Law

How has the law constructed families? What are the common law, statutory, and constitutional principles that affect the formation and dissolution of families? What are the differences between public and private regulation of the personal and financial relationships of married and unmarried couples and parents and their children? In this course, we explore the laws and public policies governing marriage and other non-marital relationships; the economic consequences of marital and non-marital “break-ups” for adults and children; the law regarding child custody and visitation; the ethical responsibilities of lawyers who practice in these areas; and other possible topics to be determined.