SIKH DIASPORA : Legal Pluralism and Dispute Settlement

Book Details:

• Author: Prit Paul

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 2013

• ISBN: 9788131604090

• Pages: 168

• Cover: Hardback

About the Book:
This insightful book investigates the complex interplay between state and non-state legal systems, examining how people perceive and engage with both in resolving disputes. It delves into whether individuals prefer formal legal frameworks sanctioned by the state or opt for dispute resolution methods rooted in community customs, religious norms, and traditional practices—and explores the underlying reasons for their preferences.

The book thoughtfully outlines various approaches and mechanisms—customary, religious, and communal—used in conflict resolution. One of its most significant contributions is the introduction of a double hermeneutic paradigm, which offers a fresh analytical framework for understanding the coexistence of formal and informal legal systems. This theoretical lens enhances our understanding of legal pluralism and the socio-cultural dimensions of justice.

With detailed chapters covering research methodology, types of disputes, dispute resolution practices, and policy implications, the book serves not only as an academic resource but also as a practical guide for legal administrators. It includes a special appendix titled “The Future of the American Criminal Justice System,” offering forward-looking insights into the evolving landscape of law and justice.

About the Author:
Dr. Prit Paul is an assistant professor of criminal justice at Auburn University at Montgomery, Alabama, USA. She holds a post-doctorate from California State University, Sacramento, and earned her Ph.D. in the Sociology of Law from Panjab University, Chandigarh. Her academic expertise and cross-cultural research experience enrich this study, making it a valuable contribution to legal sociology and justice administration.