Postgraduate - UnitLAW7022 - Forensic family law

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Notes

Synopsis

An analysis of practice and changes under the Family Law Act 1975 for the resolution of family conflict, and how expert evidence and social, psychological and medical sciences inform decision making.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit students will have an understanding of:

1. adversarial and non-adversarial methods of resolution of family conflict within the existing system of family law;
2. the role of the legal profession in the resolution of disputes about children and property, including the representation of children;
3. the role of the judiciary and the legal conduct of child-related trials;
4. the role of expert evidence and technical information in litigation;
5. the relevance of social, psychological and medical sciences in children's matters;
6. interaction between the Family Law Act 1975 and international conventions such as UNCROC and the Hague Convention on the abduction of children; and
7. new developments and changes over the last 12 months.

Assessment

Research assignment (7,000 words): 90%
Class participation and attendance: 10%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Renata Alexander

Contact hours

24 contact hours per semester (either intensive, semi-intensive or semester long, depending on the Faculty resources, timetabling and requirements)