This course examines the constitutional framework of family law; marriage and divorce; the legal recognition and regulation of different types of domestic relationships and families , including de facto and gay and lesbian relationships; the resolution of disputes between married and unmarried domestic partners relating to care and custody of children, personal protection, property and maintenance; child support; legal status of children (including legal issues arising from artificial insemination and current techniques of assisted reproduction], and the rights and responsibilities of parents and others relating to children; adoption of children; and procedural aspects of family law, including the roles of lawyers and court counsellors.