1. An assignment of 3000 words (weighted 100%) 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

The content of the module conforms to the National Occupational Standards for Family Advice and Casework (SFJIB34 )

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

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

This is a distance learning award, and the Blackboard VLE will provide a structured framework for the delivery of this module

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (3 hours)
1 hour - Telephone tutorials with the tutor
2 hours - Scheduled discussion boards

Guided Independent Study: (147 hours) This will be made up of:
Preparation for tasks and online discussions and seminars; Wider reading including exploring additional sources of information, (particularly web based), updating their knowledge in line with developments and changes
Reading study materials, asynchronous online seminars, interactive tasks
Preparation for and completing the assignment

1. Demonstrate a critical understanding of relevant law, rules and principles related to family advice.
(SG1 & 9) (Knowledge & Understanding, Learning)

2. Analyse and apply these rules and principles to provide reasoned and appropriate solutions to problems. (SG1, 4, 9 & 10) (Analysis, Application, Communication, Enquiry)

3. Use appropriate sources of information and research tools to identify relevant and current family law. (SG1 & 11) (application)

4. Evaluate policy pertaining to the family, and its impact on and relevance to contemporary advice work (SG1, 3 & 9) (Analysis, Enquiry)

Davies, P. and Basuita, P. (2017) Family Law 9th Edition. Palgrave Law Masters. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.
Probert, R. and Harding, M. (2015) Cretney and Probert’s Family Law 9th Edition. London: Sweet and Maxwell.