This unique book presents extracts and analysis of four court decisions dealing with parenting. It covers such issues as religious freedom, child abuse, the right of states to interfere with parental decisions, and who is legally a parent. Across four chapters, after each case is explained, majority and dissenting opinion essays are provided. Further experts provide essays that analyze the impact and long-term ramifications of each decision. Essay sources include Sandra Day O'Connor, Warren E. Burger, Ben F. Overton, Robert A. Butterworth, Peggy A. Quince, and Carol M. Dittmar.