Justice minister Cathy Jamieson said last week that steps were needed to bring the legal framework into line with changes in society. The plans included reducing the waiting time for divorce, and giving full parental rights to unmarried fathers who register the birth of their child with the child's mother.
Ms Jamieson said, 'Some will see any change to the law in this area as a defeat for traditional values. They should not - for the reforms are based around a principle that is central to everything we stand for as a country and as a society - the best interests of children.'
She added, 'I want the law to recognise that children are better protected when the adults around them have greater rights and responsibilities for them. And I want the law to recognise that, when relationships break down, the law should help rather than hinder.'
The Scottish Executive is also seeking views on legal safeguards for cohabiting couples, as well as a recognised role for step-parents in parenting, and better arrangements for grandparents who want to play a more active part in their grandchildren's lives.
The Executive also has plans to create a network of family contact centres across Scotland, 'safe havens' where families with difficulties can go for help outside the court system. It also plans to provide funding for better co-ordinated counselling and mediation services.
The consultation, 'Family Matters: Improving Family Law in Scotland', is available on the website www.scotland.gov.uk/familylaw. It ends on 28 June.