In a packed Baganihan Hall on October 29, 2024, the spirit of justice was alive and well among 30 Lupon members, as they gathered for an enlightening session on para-legal mediation. The energy in the room was palpable, brought to life by Onofre C. Valdellon Jr., a seasoned Mediation Staff Officer who captivated the crowd with a simple yet profound reminder: “The pursuit of justice is a noble endeavor; let your passion fuel it with purpose.” This session on para-legal mediation, a unique approach to dispute resolution, was a timely and crucial resource for Lupon members who work tirelessly to resolve community conflicts in New Lucena. Here, they learned about the power of mediation—guided by legal insight but approachable, affordable, and more efficient than traditional litigation. Through Valdellon’s engaging presentation, attendees were shown how para-legal mediation can create a path toward resolving disputes that honor the law without the overwhelming burden of court proceedings.

What is Para-Legal Mediation?

Para-legal mediation is a powerful blend of legal know-how and practical problem-solving. It allows paralegals, who have a solid grounding in legal processes, to act as neutral third parties guiding disputing parties toward mutually acceptable agreements. Unlike formal courtroom settings or high-cost legal battles, para-legal mediation offers a more informal, cost-effective, and accessible way to achieve resolution.

A key takeaway from Valdellon’s presentation was his outline of the law itself. Described as “the solemn expression of the will of the supreme power of the state,” law operates above all individuals, regardless of status. The purpose of law is to provide structure to society, to ensure that no individual is “above or below” its reach. This foundational understanding set the stage for the essential role of mediation as a way to uphold justice by empowering communities to resolve conflicts in a straightforward, accessible manner.

Benefits of Para-Legal Mediation

The advantages of para-legal mediation came through loud and clear:

1. Cost-Effective: Unlike lengthy, expensive court cases, para-legal mediation minimizes financial strain. It’s an approach where justice doesn’t come at a high price—benefiting individuals, small businesses, and the community at large.
2. Speedy Resolution: The legal system is notoriously slow, but para-legal mediation offers a much quicker path to resolution, allowing parties to avoid the emotional drain of prolonged litigation.
3. A Friendly Environment: The relaxed, informal setting of mediation often fosters a cooperative atmosphere. Unlike the courtroom, where confrontation is the default, para-legal mediation seeks common ground.
4. Legal Insight, Without the Intimidation: Paralegals bring a wealth of knowledge about legal procedures, helping ensure that any agreement complies with the law and is beneficial for all parties involved.
5. Confidentiality: Mediation respects privacy, encouraging open communication without fear of public exposure or potential legal backlash.

The Para-Legal Mediation Process

Valdellon walked the Lupon members through the key steps of the mediation process:

• Pre-Mediation: Initial consultations clarify the mediation process, helping both parties set realistic expectations.
• Mediation Session: The mediator facilitates discussion, ensuring each side is heard and understood. Active listening and summarization help build understanding.
• Negotiation: The mediator guides the parties as they brainstorm solutions and compromises.
• Final Agreement: If successful, the mediator assists in drafting a settlement that clearly outlines each party’s obligations, ensuring everyone leaves the table with a clear understanding of the next steps.

A Day of Practical Learning

This session wasn’t all theory—Lupon members actively engaged with real-life concerns, like loan disputes and land conflicts, benefiting from Valdellon’s experience and his willingness to offer consultations after the session. From case-filing requirements to specific documentation needs, the discussion was as informative as it was practical. Participants left with a renewed sense of confidence. 

One attendee reflected, “Kanami kay bisan ano mangkoton may sabat kag klaro” (It’s great that whatever question we asked, there was a clear answer), while another felt equipped to bring this knowledge back to their barangay: “Nadugangan akon kaalam para ma applay ko sa amon Brgy. as Lupon” (I gained more knowledge that I can apply as a Lupon member in our barangay).

Moving Forward: The Need for Quality and StandardsAs the field of para-legal mediation grows, it’s crucial to maintain high standards. This means continuous training and a clear set of guidelines to ensure mediators are prepared to handle disputes effectively. With Valdellon’s guidance and the dedication of the Lupon members, New Lucena is setting an example of how accessible, community-based justice can make a difference. This gathering of dedicated individuals showed that justice when simplified and made accessible, becomes a tool for community empowerment. Para-legal mediation, with its emphasis on empathy, expertise, and efficiency, proves that sometimes the best way to serve justice is not through grand speeches or complex procedures but through quiet understanding and respect for every individual’s right to peace.