LLM Family Law
An LLM Family Law programme looks at the shifting definitions of the modern family and the effects this is having on family law legislation.
In addition to aspiring and practising lawyers who specialise in this area of law, those who work closely with families and young people in their job, such as social workers, police officers, or medical professionals, may also find this LLM subject to be useful and enriching for their careers.
Core modules
Master of Laws family law courses tend to cover:
- Children’s rights
- Parental rights
- International human rights
- Regulation of family relationships in various contexts, e.g. multiculturalism, globalisation and mobility
- Marriage and divorce in various jurisdictions and conflicting laws.
Course structure
Essays, a dissertation and written examinations are all possible methods of assessment for this type of LLM. Students can expect a demanding written element to the course, as it is designed to develop sophisticated skills in academic legal research.
There are currently only a small number of institutions offering this particular specialism. Staffordshire University runs a full-time and part-time LLM Family Law. Family law is available for Master of Laws study from slightly different angles, such as UCL’s LLM in Criminal Justice, Family and Social Welfare.
Entry requirements for LLM Family Law
Entry requirements can vary according to each institution. You will need at least a 2:2 in an undergraduate law degree or the equivalent for this course. Non-law graduates can also apply in most cases, providing they have achieved at least a 2:1 (or equivalent), and have enough legal knowledge, such as a GDL (Graduate Diploma in Law) qualification.