Master of Laws in Child and Family Law

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.

Length of Program:
The LLM can be completed in 2 years on a part-time basis, though flexible completion options are available.

Location:
The LLM in Child and Family Law can be completed fully online, fully on-campus, or as a hybrid program.

Upon graduation with an LLM in Child and Family Law from Loyola, you will possess the following knowledge, skills, and professional values:

Knowledge
You will demonstrate advanced knowledge of legal rules and procedures in the fields of child and family law.

Skills

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.

Professional Values
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.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

• A completed online application available at gpem.LUC.edu/apply
• Official transcripts of all undergraduate and any graduate work; transcripts must verify
• completion of a bachelor’s degree and a primary law degree (e.g., JD or LLB)
• Two letters of recommendation
• A one- to two-page statement of purpose detailing an interest in pursuing this degree and the
• respective concentration area
• A resume outlining work experience, education, professional or academic achievements, and any additional information relevant to support the application

The following documents are required, in addition to those listed above, for those who may fall
into these categories:

• Either an official TOEFL or IELTS score report for international applicants. This requirement is waived for those who have completed a 4-year bachelor’s or a master’s degree program in the U.S. For those with a non-U.S. bachelor’s degree, the U.S. master’s degree must be conferred to waive the requirement. The language test is also waived for those who are from, or who have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree at a recognized institution in, Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, or the United Kingdom, where the language of instruction is English.
• International applicants or U.S. residents who completed school abroad are required to submit non-U.S. transcripts to one of the following: Educational Perspectives (edperspective.org), Educational Credential Evaluators (ece.org), or the Law School Admission Council (lsac.org) for evaluation of credentials. The general evaluation report must show that an applicant’s non-U.S. education is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree to be considered for admission.