Domestic relations law, also known as family law, encompasses a range of matters, including divorces, child support, adoption, and property settlements. This legal field has undergone enormous changes in the last 100 years. Understanding the history of domestic relations law is important for finding the right attorney to handle your dispute.

What Falls Under Domestic Relations Law?

Family law is derived from five principal sources: each individual state’s statutory and constitutional law; the United States Constitution; federal law that directly addresses family law matters, federal and state tax and welfare laws, and regulations, such as zoning laws. 

Traditionally, domestic law is used to govern relations within a nuclear family or household — between spouses, parents, and children. Now, it covers a broader range of relations, as the definitions of family, marriage, parental rights and gender have changed. Depending on the jurisdiction, a family law attorney can handle the dissolution of marriages, civil unions and domestic partnerships, alimony and spousal support, child support, custody and visitation, and paternity disputes. It may also include adoption of children and sometimes adults, surrogacy, child protective cases, emancipation of minors, juvenile delinquency and truancy, and guardianship. 

How Has Domestic Relations Law Evolved?

Domestic relations law has changed as legal definitions have changed and new laws have been enacted. Family law underwent a revolution starting in 1839 when states began enacting married women's property acts. Previously, a husband gained control of his wife's property upon marriage. In return, the husband had the financial obligation to support his wife and children. The acts allowed wives to own and transfer property in their own right, use an attorney to sue and face suits, and to enter into contracts. 

Another major change to domestic relations law came in the 1960s when advocates pushed for no-fault divorces. By 1987, all 50 states accepted no-fault divorces, making them easier, quicker and cheaper to obtain with the help of an attorney. Additionally, during that same time period, courts altered how they divided up marital property by taking into account the non-monetary contributions of a spouse as a homemaker, parent, and helper. In the 2000s, same-sex marriage became valid, further evolving the institution. 

For help with a domestic relations matter, count on the trusted attorneys at Hearn Law Office. The firm has provided compassionate, personalized legal guidance to clients in Wapakoneta, OH, and the surrounding areas since 1988. As family law specialists, they can aid you with a difficult divorce or custody battle. The legal experts also handle estate planning, probate law, criminal defense, debt collection, and real estate matters. Call (419) 738-8171 to schedule a consultation or visit their website to learn more.