Overview: This document shapes the framework for consideration of the issues raised in the three RFDs and provides background information that is common to all of them. It is designed so that it can be read in conjunction with any one of the RFDs individually or the set as a whole.

Spousal support: In this report, we examine the financial rights and obligations of spouses to support each other. The report includes an examination of the support rights and obligations of men an women who, although not married to each other are living together in a marriage-like relationship.

Child support: In this report we examine the financial obligations of parents to support their children, including children who have reached adult age. The report includes an examination of the support obligations owed by persons who stand in the place of parents , for example step parents. Reporting on child support separately from spousal support underscores that differenct rationales underlie the support obligation for spouses and children.

Child guardianship, custody and access: In this report we cover the responsibilities of parents, or parent substitutes to provide care, guidance, control, and protection in bringing up children. Those responsibilities are contained within the operative concepts of guardianship, custody, and access.