[fnoof]

I’d imagine they would, kind of like the levels of arbitrators and courts today.

The article said the neighbours first vote that work is done. Most of the time that could work. But it also mentions the neighbours could collude to steal the collateral. In that case courts could get involved and force money be returned etc.

I’m very far from a legal expert, but smart contracts seem like a potentially useful tool, within the current system. Not as a complete replacement.

[jgilias]

> courts could get involved and force the money be returned

So, it's the government enforcing the contract.

EDIT: Just wanted to add that I actually completely agree with your last sentence!