Family law proceedings are carried out according to their own special set of regulations, the Family Proceedings Rules. Families are in most cases assigned to special courts, such as the Family Proceedings Courts (at magistrates' level).In county courts, cases are usually heard by non-specialist district and circuit judges.
It is important for anyone planning on entering into non-commercial practice to gain some knowledge of family law, as he or she is likely to be involved in at least some family law cases early on in his or her career.
At the City Law School, Family Law is taught as an option on both the BVC and LPC and will provide an appreciation and understanding of family law practice and procedure. The BVC option focuses on the implications of the breakdown of family relationships – how this affects parents and children alike, and the role local authorities play in the care of children. The course is very practical with the emphasis on skills work; for example , the conducting of conferences with clients, negotiation, advocacy and opinion writing. The LPC elective provides training on advising clients on matrimonial matters including mediation, divorce, ancillary relief, child support legislation and in practical skills such as drafting consent orders and separation agreements.