LAW7060

Current problems in family law ( 6 points, SCA Band 3, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Professor Marcia Neave

Offered:
Not offered in 2005.

Synopsis: Constitutional issues in family law. Legal issues relating to children conceived by artificial conception. Agreements relating to matrimonial property. Maintenance and children. Parenting and other orders relating to children. The role of the separate representative. Recent developments in property division and spousal maintenance (including superannuation reform proposals and ante-nuptial agreements). The economic impact of divorce on men and women. The inter-relationship of family law and social security law.

Objectives: This subject will require students to identify and analyse some contemporary problems in family law and policy, and to understand how such problems have been resolved in Australia and some overseas jurisdictions. Students completing the course will acquire a detailed knowledge of recent Australian developments in case law and legislation, and of current law reform proposals. They will also obtain an understanding of the theoretical and policy background to contemporary family law issues.

Assessment: Research assignment (4500 words): 60% 7 Take-home examination (no more than 3000 words): 40%

Contact Hours: One 2-hour seminar per week

Prerequisites: Students taking part should have completed family law at undergraduate level in Australia or elsewhere