What is law’s role in restructuring financial relationships and parenting relationships when a marriage breaks down? Law plays an important role in regulating the lives of families and children. From definitions of marriage, spouse and parent to the legal obligations between family members, the law regulates and shapes the intimate lives of families and children.
Our leading scholars have shaped contemporary family law in significant ways, through scholarship, law reform and advocacy.
Courses
As an upper year student, you’ll be introduced to the rules governing divorce, child support, spousal support, matrimonial property rights and domestic contracts in the course on substantive Family Law.
Students can also study the special legal status of children in courses on Children, Youth and the Law.
The legal regulation of families also extends to a range of other substantive areas of law, from social welfare to taxation to immigration law.
Beyond the classroom
Students can acquire practical experience through our community legal clinic and clinical legal education program, Downtown Legal Services. Its Family Law Clinic advises clients on a variety of family law issues including custody, support and restraining orders.
Students may also volunteer with Pro Bono Students Canada (PBSC), where they can participate in family and children’s law projects.
Faculty
Role: Associate Dean, Research; Professor
Role: Professor
Role: Professor Emerita