The application of customary practices in resolving marriage and family disputes: Comparative insights and implications for Vietnam
Published: August 4, 2026
Abstract
his study examines the role of custom within major legal traditions worldwide, including the Common Law, Civil Law, and mixed legal systems, in order to elucidate the theoretical foundations for its recognition and application in the field of marriage and family law. Building on this comparative framework, the study analyzes the practical use of customary norms in resolving marriage and family disputes in selected jurisdictions. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how custom operates alongside formal legal systems and highlight its relevance in contemporary legal practice, particularly in culturally sensitive domains such as
Keywords
customslawinternational experience.
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