The Law is Straight and Narrow, How American Courts Define Families

Authors

Elisa Laird, Golden Gate University School of Law

Abstract

The article argues that American law is inherently biased toward traditional heterosexual family structures, creating significant barriers for same-sex couples and non-traditional families seeking legal recognition and rights. The legal system's "straight and narrow" framework often excludes these families from accessing benefits and protections granted to heterosexual families, reflecting deeply entrenched religious and historical influences.

Disciplines

Civil Rights and Discrimination | Courts | Law | Law and Gender | Sexuality and the Law

Recommended Citation

Elisa Laird, The Law is Straight and Narrow, How American Courts Define Families, 9 Cardozo J. Equal Rts. & Soc. Just. 221 (2003).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cardozoersj/vol9/iss2/5