What is Family Law?: Course Fees 2026, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

Updated on Jan 13, 2026 05:53 IST
Diya Nihalani

Diya NihalaniContent Author

Family Law is a branch of law. It teaches about the laws regarding family relationships, marriage, divorce, child custody, inheritance, domestic violence, treatment of children, etc. One can formally pursue this course through options like BA LLB, specialized LLM, Diploma or certifications.

Some of the popular colleges offering courses in Family Law include Vikrant University, NALSAR, KSOL, Amity University, Symbiosis Law School, etc. Some of the important topics covered in the Family Law curriculum are Marriage & Dissolution, Children & Guardianship, Property, Contemporary Issues like Civil Code, Human Rights, etc. 

After a course in Family Law, one can either pursue a doctorate or work in profiles like family lawyer, legal advisor, consultant or even enter into judiciary. You can also consider academia and research to become a law professor. Family Law plays a very important role in protecting one's rights and promoting justice within families, dispute resolution and advancing social fairness. 

Family Law Course Details: Highlights

Check out the key highlights of the Family Law courses offered in India:

Particulars Course Details
Family Law Course Level PG and PhD
Family Law Course Duration BA LLB, LLM: 1 - 2 Years, PhD: 3 - 5 Years
Family Law Admission Criteria Merit and Entrance Exam-based
Family Law Eligibility Criteria
  • BA LLB: Pass class 12
  • LLM: A 3-year LLB or a 5-year integrated LLB.
  • PhD: An LLM degree from a UGC-approved university.
Top Family Law Recruiters HelpAge India, Child Rights and You, Goonj, Smile Foundation, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co, AZB & Partners, etc. 
Family Law Salary INR 3.7 LPA

Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary.

Family Law Relevant Links:

MH CET Law 2026 Eligibility (3 & 5 Year LLB)

What After SLAT Result 2026?

 
Q:   Why should I take a Family Law course?
A:

Family Law has a good career scope. Family Law is an important area and is always in demand, and experienced professionals are always sought after. Even if you're not going to be a practicing lawyer, knowledge of family law can provide a very interesting and important insight into your own rights and responsibilities, especially with such issues as marriage, divorce, child custody, or inheritance.

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Q:   Is Family Law a full-time course after Class 12 or only a specialisation during LLM?
A:

Let's understand this in simple language, Law courses after Class 12 (LLB) are foundational programs where you'll get the base knowledge of every Law specialization. But, at the PG-level (Family you'll have the option to choose your preferred one from all the specializations. So, after Class 12, it's not possible to study Family Law specifically through a degree program.
Hope you got your answer!

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Table of contents
  • Family Law Eligibility Criteria and Admission 2026
  • Top Family Law Entrance Exams 2026
  • Family Law Course Syllabus
  • Best Family Law Colleges in India
  • Popular Private Family Law Colleges in India
  • Family Law Salary, Career Scope, Job Profiles, & Top Recruiters
  • Family Law FAQs
  • Popular Family Law UG Courses
  • Popular Family Law PG Courses
View More

Family Law Eligibility Criteria and Admission 2026

The eligibility criteria for family law courses vary depending on the institution and the level of the course. Check the official college websites to be certain of eligibility requirements. Family Law eligibility for LLB or BA LLB is to pass class 12 from a recognized board. Usually, students prefer to choose a law specialization in the later stages of education like LLM.

Here's a general eligibility criteria for LLM and Doctorate in Family Law specialization:

Course Level

Eligibility Criteria

LLM in Family Law

  • An LLB degree, either a 3-year LLB or a 5-year integrated LLB (BA LLB, BSc LLB, BCom LLB, BBA LLB, etc.).
  • With a minimum of 50% aggregate score from a recognized university.
  • AIBE marks can be required for the Certificate of Practice (COP).
PhD in Family Law
  • An LLM degree in a relevant discipline,
  • With a minimum of 50% aggregate score from a UGC-approved university.

Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary

Suggested links for Family Law Courses:

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Family Law Course Admission Process 2026

Admission to the Family Law courses can differ depending on the course level. Family Law programs are mainly offered at the PG, Doctorate levels.

Here's a step-by-step guide for pursuing LLM in Family Law admission process:

  • Check the eligibility criteria of the course and college you're aspiring for.
  • Register and appear for the acceptable entrance test.
  • Register for your candidature on the official college website.
  • Some colleges prefer to conduct personal interviews and group discussion rounds.
  • A few colleges require the candidates to showcase their Statement of Purpose or Letters of Recommendation.
  • If selected, proceed with seat allocation and document-verification.
  • Pay the fees and join your classes.

Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary

More relevant links:

List of documents required to fill the CLAT Application Form 2026

How to fill CLAT application form 2026: Online Registration, Fee payment & Last Date

 

Q:   What is the eligibility for the Family Law course?
A:

For UG

  • Pass Class 12 from a recognized board.
  • Score at least 45-50 percent aggregate.

Fore PG:

  •  LLB degree from an institute of a recognized institute.
  • Minimum 50-55 percent aggregate from an institute of a recognized college.
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Q:   Which documents are required during LLM in Family Law admission process?
A:

Some important documents to carry during the LLM in Family Law admission process:

  • An LLB degree
  • A valid photo ID proof (Adhaar, Passport, PAN Card, etc.)
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Migration Certificate
  • The  Certificate of Practice (COP)
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Q:   What kind of Class 12 background helps in getting into a good law college for Family Law?
A:

There's absolutely no stream criteria in Class 12 to join a Law college or course at the UG, PG, or any level. However, in my opinion, if you still haven't opted for a stream and are planning to join a Law course, you must opt for Arts/Humanities.

The subjects will help you understand the history and political scenario of our country, and the curriculum structure will also help you grasp more theoretical knowledge, improve book-reading habits, and so on.  

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Top Family Law Entrance Exams 2026

Admission to Family Law courses is based on both merit and the entrance exam process. While some colleges accept national or state-level exam scores, some conduct their university-level exams. For candidates' reference, here are some top Law entrance exams conducted for Family Law courses in India:

Entrance Exams

Exam Dates

Exam Schedule

CLAT 2026 December 7, 2025 CLAT Exam Date 2026
AP PGLCET 2026 June 2026 (Tentative) AP PGLCET Exam Date 2026
CUET PG 2026 March - April 2026 (Tentative) CUET PG Exam Date 2026
CSIR NET 2026 June 2026 (Tentative) CSIR NET Exam Date 2026
UGC NET 2026 June 2026 (Tentative) UGC NET Exam Date 2026

Source - Official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Don't Miss these on Family Law Exams:

List of Top Law Entrance Exams 2025-2026

CLAT Eligibility 2026: Age Limit, Qualification for LLB & LLM

CLAT Counselling Important Documents, NLUs Seat matrix, Instructions

 

1 Apr ' 26 - 2 Apr ' 26

MH CET Law 2026 Exam Date (3-Year LLB)

Apr '26

MH CET Law 2026 Admit Card (5-Year LLB)

TENTATIVE

11 Feb ' 26 - 30 Apr ' 26

AIBE 21 Registration Date 2026

1 May ' 26 - 3 May ' 26

AIBE 21 Application Correction Window 2026

To Be Notified:

CLAT 2027 online registrations

TENTATIVE

To Be Notified:

CLAT 2027 Application Correction Window

TENTATIVE

17 Apr ' 26

Last date to apply for May Attempt

2 May ' 26

SAT India exam (May attempt)

Q:   Is CLAT enough to get into good Family Law colleges?
A:

The CLAT is one of the main exams in the Law field, which can lead you to a top Law college at both the LLB and LLM levels. It's difficult to answer if the CLAT is enough, because it depends on your preferred colleges' criteria. Not every Law college in India accepts CLAT scores for Law courses; some conduct their university-level exams as well. 

Q:   Do any colleges offer direct admission for Law courses with Family Law subjects?
A:

Though most Law colleges in India conduct or accept exam scores like CLAT, etc., for Law course admission, there may be some private universities, where you can seek admission on the merit-based system. You can check the eligibility criteria for your desired Family Law college. 

Family Law Course Syllabus

Family Law syllabi and subjects can differ depending on the course level and type. In fact, the curriculum for the same course sometimes varies depending on the individual colleges. For candidates' reference, here's a general overview of the Family Law syllabus for different course levels.

LLM in Family Law Syllabus

An LLM in Family Law is a 1-2 year specialized postgraduate degree program in the field of Law. Here's a general overview of the 1-year-long LLM in Family Law syllabus followed in India:

LLM Family Law Subjects Semester I
Family Law - I - System Scope, Sources, and Schools  Family Law - II - Marriage and Matrimonial Remedies
Comparative Public Law Law and Justice in a Globalising World
Legal English and Research Methodology -
LLM Family Law Subjects Semester II
Dissertation Family Law - III Nuclear and Extended Family Rights 
Family Law - V Family Property and Succession Family Law - VI Family Disputes Resolution
Family Law-IV (Penal Laws on Family Affairs) -

Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary.

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PhD in Family Law Syllabus

A PhD in Family Law is a research-based doctorate program of 3-5 years' duration. Here's a general overview of subjects included in a PhD in Family Law program in India:

PhD Family Law Subjects
Family Dispute Resolution Family Law 
Family Property and Succession Penal Laws on Family Affairs
International Family Law Public Writing
Public Policy Public & Private Law
Scientific Research Module I: Research, Information Literacy Scientific Research Module II: Dissertation Writing I
Scientific Research Module III: Dissertation Writing II Scientific Research Module IV: Dissertation Writing III
Scientific Research Module V: Submission and evaluation of the dissertation Scientific Re3search Module VI: Dissertation Defense Preparation
Dissertation Defense -

Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary.

Read more:

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Important Topics for AILET Syllabus 2026: Section-wise Questions & Marks

 

Q:   What are some of the subjects taught in Family Law?
A:
  • Nature, Definition and Forms of Marriage
  • Conditions for Marriage & Registration of Marriage
  • Marriage Ceremonies and proof of Marriage
  • Degree of Prohibited relationship and Sapinda relationship
  • Maintenance and Adoption
  • Guardianship
  • Grounds of Void & Voidable Marriage
Q:   Which book should a law student read for Family Law?
A:

Here are some top family law books in India, briefly put together: 

Tahir Mahmood, Family Law in India, Comprehensive and widely accepted.
HINDU LAW (Family Law - I) by Dr. S.R. Myneni: Actually deals with the subject matter of Hindu Law applicable to a substantial percentage of the population.
Modern Hindu Law by Dr. Paras Diwan: This deals with contemporary issues and judicial pronouncements thus providing a deeper insight into Hindu Law.

Best Family Law Colleges in India

The number of Family Law colleges in India is limited. Around 15 Law colleges in India offer full-time Family Law courses in India. Here are some top Family Law college options in India for candidates' reference:

Best Family Law Colleges Tuition Fee
Vikrant University INR 20,000
NALSAR University of Law INR 25,000
Maharishi University of Information Technology INR 80,000
IMS Unison University INR 84,000
KIIT School of Law (KSOL) INR 3 L - 3.5 L
School of Law and Legal Affairs INR 1.12 L
Amity University, Noida INR 1.38 L
Symbiosis Law School INR 2.5 L

Source - Official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Relevant Links for Family Law Colleges:

List of NLUs in India (Updated List): NIRF Ranking 2025

Top Law Colleges in India 2026

 

25 K

#3 NIRF

2.7 L

#7 NIRF

1 Course
84 K
3.9 LPA

#29 The Week

Family Law Applications open. Apply Now

1.38 L

Family Law Applications open. Apply Now

3 L - 3.5 L

#14 NIRF

Family Law Applications open. Apply Now

80 K
Q:   Are there specific colleges known for strong Family Law faculty and exposure?
A:

NLSIU Bangalore, NLU Delhi, and Symbiosis Law School are the best in India if you want to pursue a course in Family Law. Also, NALSAR University of Law and Jindal Global Law School are also great options. You can check out their eligibility criteria, fee structure, entrance exams, etc., and then choose the one option accordingly. 

Popular Private Family Law Colleges in India

1.38 L

Family Law Applications open. Apply Now

3 L - 3.5 L

#14 NIRF

Family Law Applications open. Apply Now

1.12 L
1 Course
84 K
3.9 LPA

#29 The Week

Family Law Applications open. Apply Now

25 K

#3 NIRF

2.7 L

#7 NIRF

Family Law Salary, Career Scope, Job Profiles, & Top Recruiters

The job profiles available for candidates after completion of the Family Law course are mentioned below, which also concludes that there are plenty of job opportunities for Family Law Graduates. Hence, by pursuing Family Law Courses, one can have a decent career in the Family Law Field :

Job Profiles

Job Description

Average Salary

Family Lawyers

Provides legal advice and representation to clients in family law matters, such as marriage and divorce, child custody and support, and spousal support.

INR 3.7 LPA

Family Law Mediators

Helps families to resolve their legal disputes outside of court using mediation techniques.

INR 4.2 LPA

Family Law Arbitrators

Adjudicate family law disputes and issue binding decisions.

INR 4.8 LPA

Family Law Policy Analysts

Develops and analyzes family law policies for the government or non-profit organizations.

INR 7.1 LPA

Family Law Professors

Teaches family law courses at law schools and universities.

INR 5.8 LPA

Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary.

Family Law Scope Related Information:

Career after LLB - Scope, Job Opportunities, Salary Packages, Legal Firms

Types of Job Profiles in Law, Govt. Sector Legal Jobs, Salary

Family Law Top Recruiters

Family law recruiters are specialized recruiters who help to place lawyers in family law positions. They can help you find jobs with law firms, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and other employers that hire family lawyers. They also have a network of contacts with employers who are hiring family lawyers. This can give you a significant advantage in your job search.

Top Family Law Recruiters

Ministry of Law and Justice

National Commission for Women

ActionAid India

Khaitan & Co.

Desai & Diwanji

AZB & Partners

S&R Associates

Luthra & Luthra Law Offices

Link Legal India Law Services

Child Rights and You (CRY)

State Legal Services Authorities

National Commission for Protection of Child Rights

Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary.

More suggested articles to read:

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Q:   How to become a Family Lawyer?
A:

If you want to become a Family Lawyer, first complete your Law degree. It could be a 3 year LLB, 5 year integrated LLB or a LLM in Family Law specialization. After that clear the All India Bar Examination and gain real-world experience through internships. 

Q:   How to practice Family Law in India?
A:

Once you complete your law education, register with the Bar Council of India and clear the bar exam. After the basics you need to gain relevant experience through doing internships or working under senior advocates. Once you develop skills like legal research, drafting and other legal procedures, you can start practicing law, either independently or apply for relevant jobs in bigger law firms.

Family Law FAQs

Below are some of the FAQs for Family Law course:

Q:   Is family law a good career option?
A:

Yes, the demand for a family law professional is always consistent. Lawyers for divorce, alimony, separation, adoption and all such matter are always in demand. Thus it is a good career option.  

Q:   Are real-life case studies and judgments part of the Family Law curriculum?
A:

Indeed! Practical and project works are all about case studies in the Law field. You'll get your hands on real-life cases, research, take follow-ups, and conclude judgements on them. A Family Law course is not just about reading books and memorizing Laws, you'll keep on practicing real-life situations and cases to improve your critical thinking skills, and expertise.  

Popular Family Law UG Courses

Following are the most popular Family Law UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Family Law PG Courses

Following are the most popular Family Law PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

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Once you complete your law education, register with the Bar Council of India and clear the bar exam. After the basics you need to gain relevant experience through doing internships or working under senior advocates. Once you develop skills like legal research, drafting and other legal procedures, yo

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Diya Nihalani

Contributor-Level 10