Browse Hierarchy LAW5010U: Family Law

The module covers a range of topics concerning adults and children in a family. In the first semester the focus is on adult relationships. In the second semester, we turn our attention to matters that impact on the children in a family. The adult centred topics include the scope and function of family law in society, considering the evolving definition of the term 'family'. This is followed by considering different types of unions - marriage, civil partnership and cohabitation. Nullity of marriage, and its relevance in the 21st century is also analysed, along with the no-fault Divorce law that came into effect relatively recently. Financial Provision and Property Adjustment on Divorce/Nullity/Judicial Separation is covered in considerable detail. The topic of Domestic Abuse and the impact of the new legislation is the final topic in the first semester. In the second semester, the parent and child relationship is considered, including paternity and legal parenthood in cases of assisted reproduction. The Children Act 1989 is addressed with private disputes relating to children in the context of, for example, changing a child's name and religion. The topic of children's rights, but only where their medical treatment is concerned, is also addressed. The state's (local authorities) involvement with families is the final topic covered in the semester and academic year.