This casebook is designed to prepare students for careers in child advocacy; for periodically confronting child advocacy issues in their general practice; and for service in government or on bar association committees, law revision commissions, and similar bodies that seek to improve children's welfare in the public interest. The book illuminates doctrine, policy, and practice by developing three themes: the interrelationship of rights and responsibilities among the child, parents, and government; perceptions of children's competence as a basis for government regulation; and the role of the child's lawyer. In providing an overview of the status, rights, and obligations of children, the first chapter discusses childhood in America; the law's evolving conception of children's status, rights, and obligations; and perspectives on children's rights. In defining the child-parent relationship, the second chapter focuses on establishing paternity and maternity, and questioning the definition of "parent," guardianship, and emancipation. The third chapter discusses issues pertinent to the legal representation of children, followed by two chapters on abuse and neglect and foster care. Remaining chapters focus on criminal abuse and neglect, adoption, medical decision making, financial responsibility and control, the regulation of children's conduct, and delinquency. Chapters contain relevant case law, notes and questions, and problems for student consideration. A subject index