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LL-M in Family Law at Symbiosis Law School, Pune
Pune, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Family Law at Symbiosis Law School, Pune Pune?
This Family Law program at Symbiosis Law School, Pune focuses on the intricate legal framework governing family relations in India. It delves into diverse personal laws, gender justice, and child rights, reflecting the complex social fabric. The program prepares legal professionals to address the evolving challenges and demands within India''''s family law landscape, offering an in-depth understanding.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for law graduates seeking specialized expertise in family legal matters, fresh graduates aiming for careers in family courts, NGOs, or legal aid centers. It also suits legal practitioners looking to enhance their practice in matrimonial disputes, child welfare, and succession laws, or those aspiring for academic and research roles in family jurisprudence.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in India, including practicing family lawyers, legal advisors for welfare organizations, mediators, or researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The specialization supports growth in judicial services, public prosecution, and policy advocacy roles, aligning with increasing societal focus on family justice.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Legal Research and Writing Skills- (Throughout Semester 1)
Develop robust legal research and academic writing skills, crucial for the LL.M. curriculum. Regularly practice drafting research papers, case comments, and legal opinions. Utilize online legal databases like Manupatra and SCC Online for comprehensive resource access.
Tools & Resources
Manupatra, SCC Online, LexisNexis India, Westlaw India, University Library resources
Career Connection
Essential for dissertation completion, academic publishing, and effective legal drafting, critical for roles in law firms, judiciary, and legal research.
Engage in Deep Case Law Analysis- (Throughout Semester 1)
Beyond theoretical understanding, deeply analyze landmark and contemporary Indian family law cases. Focus on judicial reasoning, societal impact, and evolving legal interpretations. Participate actively in moot court simulations or focused case study discussions specific to family law challenges.
Tools & Resources
Case reporters, Legal commentaries, Online case law platforms, Peer study groups, Faculty discussion forums
Career Connection
Builds critical thinking and analytical skills, which are vital for effective legal practice, arguing complex cases, and contributing to legal scholarship in India.
Actively Participate in Elective Seminars- (Throughout Semester 1)
Leverage specialized elective courses like ''''Contemporary Issues in Family Law'''' and ''''Gender Justice'''' by actively participating in seminars, asking probing questions, and presenting on relevant sub-topics. Seek faculty mentorship for specific areas of interest to deepen understanding.
Tools & Resources
Seminar readings, Presentation software, Faculty office hours, Departmental workshops and guest lectures
Career Connection
Enhances understanding of niche areas within family law, fosters networking with subject matter experts, and refines public speaking skills, valuable for academic and professional growth.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Clinical Legal Education and Internships- (Semester 2)
Actively engage in the ''''Family Law Clinical Course'''' to gain practical experience in mediation and counselling. Seek internships with family courts, legal aid cells, or NGOs specializing in family disputes and child welfare to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios in India.
Tools & Resources
Legal Aid Clinics, NGO placements, Court attachments, Alumni network for internship leads, Local Bar Associations
Career Connection
Provides hands-on experience in dispute resolution and client handling, builds a professional network, and is crucial for securing placements in legal practice or social sector roles.
Focus on Dissertation Research and Writing- (Semester 2)
Dedicate substantial time to the dissertation, choosing a novel and impactful topic within Family Law with India-specific relevance. Work closely with the assigned faculty mentor, conducting thorough research, and producing a high-quality academic work that showcases specialized expertise.
Tools & Resources
Research databases, Academic writing guides, Faculty supervision, Peer feedback sessions, Statistical software (if applicable)
Career Connection
Demonstrates in-depth knowledge and advanced research capabilities, essential for academic careers, policy roles, and specialized legal advisory positions in India.
Network with Legal Professionals and Alumni- (Throughout Semester 2)
Attend legal conferences, seminars, and alumni networking events focused on family law in India. Connect with practicing lawyers, judges, and academicians to gain insights into diverse career paths, industry trends, and potential mentorship opportunities for future growth.
Tools & Resources
Professional legal associations (e.g., Bar Council), University career services, LinkedIn, Alumni meet-ups and events
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internships, and job opportunities, providing valuable industry insights and connections for career advancement within the Indian legal landscape.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for Bar Council or Judicial Services Exams- (Post-graduation, continuous preparation)
For those aspiring to legal practice or judicial roles, immediately begin comprehensive preparation for relevant state bar examinations or judicial services entrance tests in India after course completion. Focus intensely on core legal subjects and current legal affairs.
Tools & Resources
Specialized coaching institutes, Previous year question papers, Legal journals and digests, Dedicated study groups and mock tests
Career Connection
Direct pathway to practicing law in India, eligibility for judicial services, and entry into various governmental legal positions, ensuring a stable and impactful career.
Engage in Continuous Professional Development- (Ongoing, post-graduation)
Stay updated with new legislation, landmark judicial pronouncements, and evolving societal changes affecting family law in India. Participate actively in workshops, certificate courses, or advanced training on mediation, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), or specific family law amendments.
Tools & Resources
Legal news portals (e.g., LiveLaw, Bar and Bench), Professional associations, Online courses from premier law universities, Continuing Legal Education (CLE) modules
Career Connection
Ensures relevance and expertise in a dynamic legal field, allowing for career growth, specialization, and leadership roles in family law.
Develop a Personal Brand and Online Presence- (Ongoing, post-graduation)
Build a strong professional online presence through platforms like LinkedIn, showcasing specialized expertise in family law. Consider writing articles, legal blogs, or actively participating in online legal discussions to establish thought leadership and expand professional visibility within the Indian legal community.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn Professional Profile, Personal website/blog, Legal publication platforms, Professional social media engagement
Career Connection
Crucial for attracting clients (especially for independent practitioners), securing expert advisory roles, and fostering a strong reputation within the legal community, enhancing career prospects.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- LL.B. Degree from any recognized University with minimum 50% marks or equivalent grade (45% for SC/ST candidates).
Duration: 1 Year (Two Semesters)
Credits: 50 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1101 | Research Methodology | Core | 5 | Types of Research, Research Design, Data Collection, Legal Research, Report Writing |
| 1102 | Law and Justice in a Globalising World | Core | 5 | Globalisation and Law, International Legal Order, Human Rights, International Economic Law, Rule of Law |
| 1103 | Contemporary Issues in Family Law | Elective | 5 | Marriage and Divorce Laws, Matrimonial Remedies, Child Custody, Adoption, Maintenance Laws, Surrogacy, Live-in Relationships |
| 1104 | Gender Justice and Feminist Jurisprudence | Elective | 5 | Gender Stereotypes, Women and Law, Feminist Legal Theories, Gender-Based Violence, Reproductive Rights |
| 1105 | Legal Regulation of Family Relations | Elective | 5 | Uniform Civil Code, Personal Laws, Matrimonial Property, Succession, Guardianship |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1201 | Comparative Public Law & Systems of Governance | Core | 5 | Comparative Law, Constitutional Systems, Administrative Law, Judicial Review, Federalism |
| 1202 | Child Rights and Law | Elective | 5 | Child Protection, Juvenile Justice, Child Labour, Rights of the Child, International Instruments |
| 1203 | Women and Criminal Law | Elective | 5 | Gender and Crime, Domestic Violence, Sexual Harassment, Rape Law, Trafficking |
| 1204 | Family Law Clinical Course | Elective | 5 | Family Counselling, Mediation, Legal Aid, Domestic Violence Cases, Child Protection Laws, Case Studies |
| 1205 | Dissertation | Project | 5 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review, Methodology, Data Analysis, Thesis Writing |
