EXAMINATIONOFTHEEFFECTIVENANDCHALLENGES OF ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION MECHANISMS IN RESOLVING FAMILY DISPUTES IN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This research examines the role of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in resolving family law dispute. This is to determine the scope of ADR and its mechanisms in resolving disputes. The research adopts the doctrinal methodology. It reviews the legal and institutional framework on ADR. This research examines the effects and challenges associated with using ADR mechanisms as alternatives to traditional court litigation in resolving family law dispute by exploring existing studies, scholarly articles and other legal sources. The types of ADR will also be examined in this work. This research finds that adoptions of ADR mechanisms have been in use for a very long time and has gained wide acceptance and how ADR has assisted or helped in resolving of disputes over the years. This research thus recommends that parties that have dispute are being encouraged first to submit to arbitration or mediation or use of any of the methods of resolving conflict or dispute before embarking on to settle their dispute through litigation. By synthesizing these findings, this research offers insights into potential reforms and strategies to enhance the judiciary as well as the public on ADR mechanisms. The research concludes by looking into the solution to the challenges facing the use of ADR responses to resolving family disputes.