Integrating Lawyers into Policing: A Model for Conflict Resolution

Strategic Insights -

The Guangzhou Municipal Public Security Bureau's Huadu Branch has implemented a "lawyer-on-station" system, placing legal experts at the forefront of policing to enhance the accuracy and authority of conflict mediation. This innovative approach has resolved over 3,800 conflicts and provided free legal consultation to over 12,000 people over the past three years. The model, which involves partnering with local law firms to establish a "weekday lawyer presence," has achieved a win-win situation by providing professional support to the public at the scene of the conflict while reducing the burden on police officers.

Key Takeaways:

  • The "lawyer-on-station" system has been implemented in six police stations in the Huadu Public Security Bureau, expanding professional legal services to grassroots governance.
  • Over the past three years, the system has resolved over 3,800 conflicts and provided free legal consultation to over 12,000 people.
  • The system has achieved a win-win situation by providing professional support to the public at the scene of the conflict while reducing the burden on police officers.
  • The system involves partnering with local law firms to establish a "weekday lawyer presence," which includes providing zero-threshold consultation, immediate mediation, and targeted legal education services.
  • The system has been used to resolve complex disputes such as wage arrears and inheritance division, which previously required coordination across multiple departments.
  • The system has also been used to address situations of mass unrest, such as a company withholding wages from over 60 employees, by coordinating with police officers to address the situation.
  • The Huadu Public Security Bureau has expanded the "lawyer-in-station" model to six police stations, laying a solid foundation for harmony, stability, and long-term peace and order.

Statistics:

  • Over 3,800 conflicts have been resolved through the "lawyer-on-station" system over the past three years.
  • Over 12,000 people have received free legal consultation through the system.
  • The system has been implemented in six police stations in the Huadu Public Security Bureau.
  • The system involves partnering with local law firms to establish a "weekday lawyer presence."

Sources:

  • All China Lawyers Association: "Guangzhou Municipal Public Security Bureau's Huadu Branch Implements 'Lawyer-on-Station' System"