African Criminal Law Review

Advancing Scholarship Across the Continent

Vol. 2006 No. 1 (2006)

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Customary Law and Statutory Law in Family Matters: An Interface Analysis in Ghana's Legal Framework,

Abena Kwame Adarkwa, Food Research Institute (FRI) Kofi Akwasi Amarteifio, Food Research Institute (FRI)
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18838265
Published: March 25, 2006

Abstract

Customary law plays a significant role in family matters across Ghana's legal framework, often operating alongside statutory laws to address diverse social and cultural needs. Qualitative research methods were employed, including interviews with legal practitioners, community leaders, and family members to gather insights into how customary and statutory laws are applied in practice. A key finding is the existence of significant overlap where both systems coexist within specific communities, though there remains a notable divergence in areas such as divorce and inheritance rights. The findings suggest that while customary law often prevails over statutory law in certain contexts, it is crucial to understand how these two legal frameworks can be harmonized for more effective dispute resolution in family matters. Recommendations include the development of a comprehensive legal education programme to enhance understanding and respect for both customary and statutory laws among different stakeholders.

How to Cite

Abena Kwame Adarkwa, Kofi Akwasi Amarteifio (2006). Customary Law and Statutory Law in Family Matters: An Interface Analysis in Ghana's Legal Framework,. African Criminal Law Review, Vol. 2006 No. 1 (2006). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18838265

Keywords

GeographicAfricaCulturalStudiesQualitativeResearchCohortAnalysisCommunityBasedEmpiricalStudy

References