Informal Solidarity vs. Formal Solidarity Norms

The Social Aspects of Jurisprudence on the Maintenance of Illegitimate Children (1927–1938)

Abstract

For thousands of years, it was the family’s responsibility to care for its members. Today, a wide range of welfare benefits ensures support for those in need. In Hungary, between the two world wars, out-of-wedlock births were perceived as a social poverty issue that required state intervention in the absence of family care and welfare provisions. This paper examines the possible role of guardianship authorities and courts in addressing this problem. Based on archival sources, it seeks to explore the social considerations taken into account by courts when determining alimony in maintenance lawsuits involving illegitimate children.