This module will provide critical analysis of current issues, policy, legislation and case law relating to the following :-

- the changing nature of families and households in the UK
- adult relationships
- marriage and civil partnerships
- cohabitation and the unmarried family
- inheritance
- domestic violence
- ending a relationship - legalities and practicalities (including legal aid)
- nullity, divorce and judicial separation
- pre- action protocol for mediation information and assessment in family disputes
- ancillary relief
- financial support for children (including child support)
- parental rights and responsibilities
- child abduction
- reform of family law

Probert R. (2012) Cretney and Probert¿s Family Law 8th ed. London: Sweet and Maxwell.
Standley, K. And Davies, P. (2013) Family Law. Basingstoke, Palgrave Macmillan.

Access to a PC is essential
Access to the Internet
Access to hard-copy formats of texts, materials

This module is delivered by blended learning using Blackboard VLE.

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (25)
10 hours lecturers/tutorials
5 hours module/assessment support, which may be virtual or face to face
10 hours online lecture and interactive exercises and activities via Blackboard VLE

Guided Independent Study Hours: (125)
15 hours preparation for scheduled sessions, and follow up work
65 hours independent study and wider reading, including researching web based resources
45 hours assessment preparation

1. An assignment of 2500 words (weighted 70%) which contributes to all LO's

2. Students will contribute to an assessed seminar of 700 words (weighted 30%) which contributes to all LO's

Additional Assessment Details (include formative feedback / assessment):
Online tests provide an opportunity for self assessment
Case studies with group feedback provide peer and tutor feedback
Discussion forums provide peer and tutor feedback