Civil procedures and legal matters involving family members' financial responsibilities, custodial rights, eligibility, and other obligations generally fall under the family law category. Domestic violence and child abuse are included in this section, although they are criminal matters. The following is a list of family law topics:

Marriage: Eligibility requirements such as age and gender (i.e., same-sex marriage) are primarily governed at the state level. Also, different states have different laws governing legal partnerships other than marriage.

Divorce: Also called "dissolution of marriage," divorces come about via court order, either with or without legal representation. Sometimes one spouse will be required to provide financial support for the other after a divorce.

Child Custody & Child Support: When parents get divorced, the court must decide what is in the best interests of the children, which includes living arrangements and financial support.

Adoption: A variety of legal considerations may come into play when adopting or fostering a child.

Domestic Violence & Child Abuse: While these violations are handled in criminal court, they often raise legal issues affecting the family, as well.