Stef, a dedicated police officer, is in a relationship with Lena. The two have built a close-knit family with Stef's biological son, Brandon, and adopted twins, Mariana and Jesus. When Lena meets Callie -- hardened from being in and out of foster homes -- the couple welcome her into their home, thinking it is temporary. Callie's blunt commentary about the atypical family hits a nerve with the twins, who struggle with their own identities. Then the girl discovers a secret that could land Mariana in trouble. Brandon helps Callie navigate the social scene at high school, but she skips school to meet up with an old friend. Her behavior makes Stef and Lena second-guess their decision to help her.

*Portrays interracial couple, Stef and Lena, who have a multi-ethnic household of children (fosters, adopted and biological). Delivers an honest portrayal of lesbian parents by focusing on issues every working parent or couple faces.

*Stef addresses her father’s homophobia on several occasions

*Characters Jude and Connor are gay, and enter into a relationship

*Character Aaron Baker is transgender; season 4 and 5 portrays Aaron's experiences in a group home that does not correspond with his gender identity, his relationships, and other experiences as a transgender youth.