*Panel III: The Judicial Perspective: Theoretical and Practical
Realities Facing Jurists as a Result of the Changing Family Structure*
The traditional family structure has carried great weight in judicial decisions. Trial judges are influenced by their perception of the family structure in determining the types and methods of services provided to the public. Two key questions then exist: First, what forms of judicial reasoning need to take place as the traditional family becomes less prevalent? Secondly, what practical changes must be made in order for courts to adapt to changing realities of society? This panel will offer distinct insights into how the rise of non-traditional households will cause judges to account for the changing family dynamic in their legal reasoning, and how the new realities of diverse family structures will require courts to find novel ways of offering worthwhile services to all families. This panel features Judge Ann Aiken of the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon, Justice Rives Kistler of the Oregon Supreme Court, and Justice Harry Lee Anstead of the Florida Supreme Court.