family law

In child custody proceedings where custody between two parents is contested, courts use this doctrine to make decisions regarding which parent will have custody of the child, the nature of visitation rights, and the nature of child support payments.  A list of factors is often used to make such a determination.  The list varies depending on the particular law of the state in question, but may include the following:  the existence of a prior agreement between the parties, the quality of the home environment and the degree of parental guidance that the custodial parent offers,

In family law, this term refers to two parties (ie. two people) living together with the understanding that there is no legal marital relationship.

The formal requirement of the performance of a marriage ceremony and the professional class that may marry a couple. Who may perform such a ceremony varies depending on the particular laws of the state.  For example, in one state, a mayor, magistrate, county clerk, city clerk, judge, or justice may perform the solemnization.  In another state, a notary public may perform the solemnization.