ABSTRACT
Disputes exist in all societies. These may be disagreements within the family, which are sometimes categorised as ‘domestic’ disputes, or disagreements within the kinship group to which the disputants belong. On the other hand, disputes may be between members of different kinship groups, or between individuals and corporations or even different corporations. Disputes may range from day to day matters to fundamental disagreements about ownership. They may be purely about business affairs, which disputes are often referred to as ‘commercial’ disputes. Disputes may be resolved informally by the parties. If they are not, outside intervention may be necessary.
