Family Law in Practice

This manual examines the key areas of family law most likely to be encountered in practice. Adopting a highly pragmatic approach, this manual offers invaluable practical guidance on preparing for hearings, writing opinions and handling witnesses, preparing and encouraging students to develop and practise their legal skills in a family law context.

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Almost all junior barristers in civil practice are likely to encounter family law work in their first years of practice. Family Law in Practice provides a detailed introduction to the key areas of the substantive family law of which the junior practitioner should have a good working knowledge. Key aspects of family law covered include domestic violence, care proceedings and pre-nuptial agreements.

Adopting a highly pragmatic approach, Family Law in Practice encourages students to build on their existing basic practitioner skills, and highlights how to approach writing opinions and drafting documents specific to family law. It provides invaluable practical advice on how to prepare for different types of hearing, what factors to consider in relation to negotiation, how to make persuasive submissions, and how to handle witnesses effectively, ensuring that the junior practitioner
is fully prepared for his or her first steps in the family courts.