This book continues the approach of the previous editions, offering a conceptual approach to the legal issues implicit in family law. The book describes the developments of alternatives to marriage, same-sex marriage, and 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, and 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.