Recent legal developments such as precustodial versus postcustodial cases and the effects of abuse allegations are discussed, as well as the complex legal relationships of criminal court, juvenile court, and family court. A preliminary study of parental child abduction, using family court services files, showed an equal number of pre- and postcustodial incidents, with more children taken by mothers than by fathers. Mothers were more likely to take their children after adjudication. The length of absence and legal reactions varied greatly. The psychological and social background of the parents and the long-term effects on the families are discussed. 5 tables, 3 notes, and 10 references (Author abstract)