Introductory description

A fascinating and dynamic module that raises important issues of social policy, focusing on the way that the law regulates entry into, behaviour during, and exit from, certain types of adult relationships; and how the law differentiates between different types of adult relationships.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

What is 'family law' about? How does the law define and regulate different types of families?
Entry into marriage and civil partnership: who can marry or enter into a civil partnership and how do they do so?
Divorce and dissolution: how does the state regulate exit from formal partnerships?
Domestic violence: the protection offered by the law
The division of assets on relationship breakdown
Cohabitation: the current rights of cohabitants and proposals for reform

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Understand which types of adult relationships are regulated by the law, how, and why.
• Identify the relevant sources of key principles of family law.Understand the operation of family law in society and demonstrate a realistic understanding of the current practice of family law.
• Understand the operation of family law in society and demonstrate a realistic understanding of the current practice of family law.
• Research a topic in family law using paper and electronic resources and specialist legal materials.
• Work collaboratively to complete a defined task within a limited time
• Understand and use legal concepts, policy principles and theoretical ideas in speaking and writing about law and family practice.
• Analyse past, current and future law and policy developments in terms of theoretical issues and in terms of their impact on individuals & families
• Work independently to gain understanding of material and issues in family law without explanatory lectures

Indicative reading list

J. Herring, Family Law (Longman, 7th ed 2015)
R. Probert and M. Harding, Cretney and Probert's Family Law
(Sweet & Maxwell, 9th ed 2015)
S. Gilmore and L. Glennon, Hayes and Williams' Family Law
(OUP, 5th ed 2016)

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

No subject specific skills defined for this module.

Transferable skills

No transferable skills defined for this module.