non repudiation

So, when non-repudiation comes up there is a fair bit of hmmmm maybe/maybe not as to if it is really a separate attribute or really something derived from legal/etc. considerations.  Or, put another way, it is just other attribute) with some lawsuits attached.  

Do you think non-repudiation "stands alone" as an attribute.  Yes, or no, or maybe?  And why that answer?

Please give me your opinion, in less than a single spaced page, and justify it! Please use references