Journal of Law and Legal Reform
Vol. 7 No. 2 (2026): April, 2026

Agree to Disagree: Understanding the Failure of Mediation Facilitated by Paralegals

Yuli Prasetyo Adhi (Faculty of Law, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia)
Triyono Triyono (Faculty of Law, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia)
Dewi Sulistianingsih (Faculty of Law, Universitas Negeri Semarang, Semarang, Indonesia)
Rahmawati Mohd Yusoff (Department of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Segamat, Malaysia)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Apr 2026

Abstract

Mediation is widely recognized as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism that emphasizes consensus and mutually beneficial outcomes. However, mediation does not always result in a settlement agreement. This article examines the factors contributing to mediation failure, particularly in cases facilitated by paralegals. Using socio-legal research combined with qualitative analysis of mediation practices at the International Mediation and Arbitration Center (IMAC), the Indonesian National Arbitration Institute (BANI), the Gunungkidul Regency Government in Yogyakarta, and National Legal Reform Agency (BPHN), this study analyzes the role of paralegals, the dynamics of the disputing parties, and the procedural challenges that lead to deadlock during mediation. The research findings indicate that several factors, including a lack of good faith on the part of the parties, unrealistic expectations, communication barriers, power imbalances, and limited mediator competence, influence mediation failure. This study argues that mediation should not be considered a failure when no agreement is reached, as the process can still provide clarity for the parties and guide them towards alternative legal pathways. This research contributes to the dispute resolution discourse by highlighting the practical challenges faced by paralegals in the mediation process.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

jllr

Publisher

Subject

Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice

Description

The Journal seeks to disseminate information and views on matters relating to law reform, including developments in case and statute law, as well as proposals for law reform, be they from formal law reform bodies or from other institutions or ...