This area covers the laws related to, and regarding families. This includes the establishment of family and domestic relationships, the rules for creating a union – be it domestic partnerships, civil unions, or marriage, as well as their termination or dissolution, and the ensuing issues related to this, such as alimony, child support, property division, custody and the like.

When one thinks of family court, marriage, divorce, adoption, domestic abuse, child abuse and other related topics generally come to mind. All of these issues, and more, are addressed in family law.

Family law is ruled largely by statute, but common law precedent plays an important role, as well, and these rules and laws vary from state to state. Although family court is the most well know judiciary body for this area of law, other courts and administrative bodies share jurisdiction as well. Many of the courts offer access to self-help services and legal forms for individuals to proceed without an attorney, but complications can easily arise and retaining an attorney is most often the wiser decision.

Family Law Definition

Family law covers rules for living together, prenuptial agreements, marriage, divorce, alimony, and mediation, along with the laws on domestic violence, child support, child custody and visitation, adoption, same-sex marriage, elder care, and senior law. Laws governing these areas vary from state to state. Family law courts hear cases involving these areas. Many of the courts offer access to self-help services and legal forms for individuals to proceed without an attorney.

Source: HG.org