COURSE DESCRIPTION 2012 2013

Mr. Paul Kane, Hon. Edward M. Ginsburg (Ret.),

2 credits day; 2 credits evening. Co-taught by Ginsburg and Kane

This course has been specifically designed to consider questions relating to custodial and parenting issues within and without the family. Within this context, the course will review the constitutional issues affecting and defining family. The concerns addressed include custodial designations in divorce and paternity cases, including parenting plans and the legal standards applicable to each; the effect of domestic violence, ethnicity, religion, psychological factors and cultural differences in determining custodial designations as well as effective parenting plans. The course will also address the standards for and substantive and procedural issues surrounding the removal of children from the jurisdiction; permanent removal of children from parents, "de facto" parents, grandparent's rights and post judgment custodial modifications. The course will consider the role of children within the process and how and under what circumstances their voices should be heard. Dispute resolution options such as the role of the court probation officers, guardians ad item, and attorneys for children are explored. Students write a paper and may submit the paper for the writing requirement.

Enrollment is limited: 20

Elective Course

May Fulfill Legal Writing Requirement

Final Paper Required

Child Welfare Internship Seminar