Evaluating Paralegal Effectiveness in Expanding Access to Marriage Legal Aid at LKBHI UIN Salatiga 18 7

Abstract

Examining the role of paralegals in expanding access to marriage legal aid has become increasingly important as legal aid institutions face challenges in reaching vulnerable communities. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of paralegal roles in providing marriage legal assistance at LKBHI UIN Salatiga and to examine how legal norms, institutional practices, and social factors influence their implementation. Employing a socio-legal research approach, this study uses empirical legal analysis through interviews with the Director of LKBHI UIN Salatiga, paralegals, and legal aid recipients, supported by legislative materials and relevant academic literature. The findings reveal that paralegals contribute significantly through non-litigation assistance, including legal consultation, mediation support, legal information, and community empowerment. However, their effectiveness remains constrained by differences in competency, limited institutional resources, and uneven public awareness regarding paralegal services. Applying legal effectiveness theory, this study demonstrates that successful legal aid implementation depends on the interaction between regulatory recognition, institutional capacity, and community acceptance. This article contributes to socio-legal scholarship by highlighting paralegals as intermediary legal actors who strengthen the relationship between formal legal structures and communities seeking justice.