Tying the Knot is for anyone interested in how couples have married from 1836 to the present day. It shows how the legal options have evolved and how social practices have changed, and demonstrates how the legal regulations have hindered many couples from marrying in accordance with their beliefs.

Analyses marriage law's development since 1836--its complexity, failures to respond to societal change, and constraints on different beliefs.

'This book 'celebrates', as it were, both weddings and their laws. Only the stand-out family lawyer of her generation could meld the two with such apparent ease. If you like love, law, history, religion and politics this is the book for you. Don't borrow a copy -  buy one.' Chris Barton, Emeritus Professor of Family Law, Staffordshire University