The Customary and Statutory Law Interface in Ghanaian Family Matters: A Mixed-Methods Inquiry

The interface between customary law and statutory law in Ghanaian family matters is a complex issue due to the country's legal pluralism. The study employs both qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys to gather data from diverse stakeholders including judges, lawyers, community leaders, and affected individuals across different regions of Ghana. A notable finding is the significant proportion (42%) of respondents who reported encountering conflicts between customary and statutory laws in their practice or personal experiences. The study concludes that a nuanced understanding of both legal frameworks is essential for effective dispute resolution and policy-making in family matters. Recommendations include developing comprehensive training programmes for judges on the application of mixed-law scenarios, and promoting public awareness campaigns about legal pluralism. Customary Law, Statutory Law, Family Matters, Ghanaian Legal Pluralism