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If you have a dispute in Bacolod City, your first step may not be hiring a lawyer or going to court. Under the Barangay Justice System, certain disputes must first go through conciliation at the barangay level. This system is designed to resolve issues quickly, peacefully, and at little to no cost.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to the barangay conciliation process in Bacolod City and when you may need to consult a Bacolod lawyer.
1. Identify the Dispute
The Barangay Justice System covers most:
- Civil disputes and minor criminal offenses punishable by imprisonment of up to one year, or fines not exceeding ₱5,000.
- Conflicts between residents of the same barangay or within Bacolod City.
Some disputes are exempt, such as cases involving government officials acting in their official capacity, or cases requiring urgent legal remedies.
2. Go to the Barangay Hall
File your complaint at the Barangay Hall where: you reside, or the respondent resides, or where the dispute took place in Bacolod City.
3. Prepare Complaint Details
Provide the following: your name and details, the respondent’s details and a clear summary of the dispute including supporting evidence (documents or witnesses)
Note: Lawyers are not allowed to represent parties during barangay conciliation.
4. Filing the Complaint
Submit your complaint to the Punong Barangay (Barangay Captain) or the Lupon Tagapamayapa. If necessary, the case will be referred to a Pangkat ng Tagapagkasundo (conciliation panel).
5. Summons and Notice
The respondent will be served a summons and notified of the conciliation hearing, usually set within 3–5 days from filing.
6. Conciliation Hearing
Both parties must appear at the barangay hall. The officials will mediate a non-adversarial discussion to encourage peaceful resolution.
7. Settlement Efforts
The aim is to reach a mutually acceptable settlement. Witnesses and documents may be presented, though strict legal rules of evidence do not apply.
8. Non-Appearance Consequences
If the complainant repeatedly fails to appear, the case may be dismissed.
If the respondent does not appear, the Lupon may proceed without them, or issue a Certification to File Action, which allows the complainant to bring the case to court.
9. Resolution or Certification
If settlement is achieved, both parties sign an amicable settlement, which becomes final and binding.
If no settlement is reached, the barangay issues a Certification to File Action, a requirement before elevating the case to court.
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When Do You Need a Bacolod Lawyer?
While lawyers cannot represent you during barangay conciliation, once the barangay issues a Certification to File Action, you will need a Bacolod lawyer to:
- Draft and file your case in court
- Represent you during trial
- Protect your rights and ensure compliance with court procedures
If you need legal advice after barangay proceedings, you can consult a Bacolod lawyer online or in-person. Clients can avail of an initial legal consultation free of charge through this site. This allows you to understand your legal options before pursuing court action.
Key Takeaway: Barangay conciliation in Bacolod City is your first step in resolving disputes. But if no settlement is reached, a Bacolod lawyer is essential to guide you through the next stage—filing your case in court and protecting your legal rights.*
Jay Erwin V. Balabag, CPA 