When I did mine I pulled the whole assembly out. It's very simple - remove the battery pos cable - remove the electrical connections from the pump/s - remove the fuel lines (have the drain pan handy and where safety goggles) - and then pop off the rubber mounts.
It much easier to replace the filter with the whole assembly on the bench. Not that it's that hard to do in the car, but if it's been neglected it will surely have some tight fasteners and dirt. It's VERY important to clean everything well before undoing the banjo nuts and other connections. Having it on the bench is more efficient and makes for easier cleaning and final inspection without laying on your back under the car.

Edited to add: I also used clamps on the fuel line from the tank, and the line to the engine to minimize spillage. Only the gas from the filter and I think some from the accumulator came out that way but I'm not sure how much more would have come out, if any, if I didn't clamp the lines.