Legal Definitions - family law

Family law, also known as domestic relations law, is a type of law that deals with legal issues related to family relationships. This includes marriage, divorce, child custody, adoption, domestic violence, reproductive rights, and other matters that involve family members.

For example, if a couple decides to get a divorce, family law will govern how their property is divided, who gets custody of their children, and how much child support or alimony should be paid. If a child is being abused by a family member, family law will provide legal protections for the child and may result in criminal charges for the abuser.

Family law is based on English common law traditions, but it has evolved over time to reflect changing social norms and values. Each state has its own family law statutes, which can vary widely from state to state. Some states have separate family courts to handle family law cases.