Presented by Michael Saini
Thursday 4 June 2026
12:35 - 1:35 pm (1 CPD Credit)

ABOUT THE COURSE:
Family law increasingly relies on social science evidence to inform decisions about parenting, child well-being, and dispute resolution. This webinar provides an up-to-date overview of key social science findings relevant to family law practice, with particular attention to how research is properly interpreted, applied, and sometimes overstated in litigation contexts. The session will review current evidence on interparental conflict, parenting arrangements, family violence, and child adjustment, while highlighting common methodological limitations and misuses of research in reports, expert testimony, and legal argument. Participants will be encouraged to think critically about what social science can and cannot say, and how to use evidence responsibly when advancing or challenging claims in family law cases. Designed for family law lawyers, this webinar offers practical guidance to support effective advocacy, sound evidentiary analysis, and child-focused outcomes

ABOUT THE SPEAKER:
Michael A. Saini, PhD, MSW, RSW, is a Professor and the Factor-Inwentash Chair in Law and Social Work at the University of Toronto, with a cross-appointment to the Faculty of Law. He is Co-Director of the combined JD/MSW Program and an internationally recognized expert in separation and divorce, as well as in the application of social science evidence in legal decision-making. Dr. Saini has authored over 200 publications, including peer-reviewed articles, books, and government reports, and regularly provides training to judges, lawyers, and mental health professionals across Canada and internationally. He is President of Family Mediation Canada and the immediate Past President of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC). In 2019, he was awarded the Stanley Cohen Distinguished Research Award from AFCC.

PRICING:
TLABC Member: $55/Registrant
TLABC Law/Articling Student Member: $20/Registrant
TLABC Paralegal/Legal Assistant Member: $20/Registrant
Non-Member: $145/Registrant

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DISCLAIMER:
This live presentation, accompanying materials, and any recordings made available for on-demand viewing are strictly for the sole use of the Registrant. It is not permitted to reproduce and/or share in any format without the express written permission of Trial Lawyers Association of BC. By registering, you agree with the aforementioned terms and conditions.

This program has been approved for credit in the following jurisdiction(s):

Law Society of British Columbia

Credit has been approved with the Law Society of British Columbia for 1.00 Structured Legal Education credit.

Online via ZOOM

Cancellations subject to a $25 administration fee.