What defines a family? How are children’s rights evolving? The practice of child and family law requires both a sensitive manner and a discerning legal mind. The Master of Laws (LLM) in Child and Family Law degree program is designed to sharpen and inform both needs. We offer a comprehensive study of the latest in child law trial practice and legislation, international rights for children, adoption law, and domestic violence.
The opportunity to work closely with nationally-recognized faculty members and experienced practitioners in the field means you’ll be well-versed in this evolving discipline.
OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU
Upon graduation with an LLM in Child and Family Law from NORTHAMPTON, you will possess the following knowledge, skills, and professional values:
You will demonstrate advanced knowledge of legal rules and procedures in the fields of child and family law.
You will be able to:
Conduct complex and specialized legal research and analysis;
Engage in scholarship that contributes to the greater understanding of law and policy as it affects children and families;
Understand how child development and family dynamics influence child and family law and policy;
Effectively compare perspectives on issues facing children and families in a global environment;
Comprehend the historical, socio-economic and cultural context in which child and family laws, policies and practices are developed and implemented;
Identify and articulate areas in which laws and policies should be improved to promote positive outcomes for children, families and communities; and
Appreciate the unique legal and ethical needs and circumstances of child and adolescent clients.
You will be prepared to exercise proper professional responsibilities to your clients and serve as a leader in promoting the legal needs of children and families.
CURRICULUM
Tailored to meet your background, interests, and professional ambitions, the program may be completed fully online, fully on-campus, or as a hybrid in one year or two years, depending on your pace. The curriculum is designed for maximum flexibility to meet your individual interests and needs. Students in the LLM program may elect to concentrate their studies in traditional family law, child law, or a combination of each.
REQUIRED COURSES
LLM Thesis
ELECTIVE COURSES
You choose from a range of courses including family law, elder law, family finances law, legal marketing, child custody, adoption law, juvenile justice, child welfare, and international child rights. You may wish to create an emphasis within either family law or child law.
Advanced Domestic Relations Practicum
Advanced Domestic Relations Practicum II
ChildLaw Clinic
ChildLaw Directed Study
ChildLaw Graduate Externship
ChildLaw Independent Research
ChildLaw Trial Practice
ChildLaw Trial Practice Intensive
Children’s Legal Rights Journal
Children’s Legal Rights Journal Editorial Board
Children’s Legal Rights Journal Senior Editors
Education Law and Policy
Education Law Practicum
Family Law
Family Law Practicum
Fundamentals of School Law
Human Trafficking in the United States: Special Issues Concerning Children
Interdisciplinary Seminar on Domestic Violence
Juvenile Justice Seminar
Labor and Employment Law in the Education Workplace
Law and Poverty
Mediation Seminar
Policy Practicum: Issues in Child Law
Special Education Dispute Resolution
Special Education Law and Advocacy
Student Disciplinary Hearing Workshop
Street Law
FAMILY LAW CONCENTRATION
You can choose from a range of courses including family law, elder law, family finances law, and legal marketing
CHILDREN’S LAW CONCENTRATION
To earn an LLM in Child Law degree, you must compete a total of 24 hours, including the 3 credit hour LLM thesis. Visit our Registrar for a complete list of degree requirements, academic calendars, and registration process.
Degree Requirements
To earn an LLM in Child Law degree, you must compete a total of 24 hours, including the 3 credit hour LLM thesis.
FEES
The School of Law and Northampton Financial Aid Office are committed to helping students secure the necessary financial resources to make their legal education at Northampton affordable