Tulum Revamps Civic Justice with Prevention & Mediation

Tulum, Quintana Roo — The Tulum City Council is currently working to standardize the regulations governing civic judges at the federal, state, and municipal levels, aiming to transform the role of these officials, according to Johnny Monsreal Padilla, the municipality’s secretary general.

A New Approach to Civic Justice

Monsreal Padilla explained that the initiative seeks to move beyond the traditional view of civic judges as solely punitive figures. Instead, the municipality is developing a comprehensive model that incorporates preventive measures, conciliation efforts, and follow-up procedures for administrative violations.

“We want civic judges to be more than just individuals who issue fines. Now, if someone is a repeat offender, a different or complementary penalty can be applied—not just a financial one—which may even include rehabilitation or mediation measures,” he elaborated.

Addressing Recurring Violations

Examples cited include cases where residents repeatedly violate community living standards, such as excessive noise or disregarding waste collection schedules. In such instances, civic judges will intervene more decisively, not only imposing fines but also facilitating dialogue, monitoring compliance, and applying proportional sanctions.

Additionally, landowners who ignore municipal notifications regarding vacant lots may face direct sanctions from civic judges, as will those who fail to comply with cleanliness or waste disposal regulations.

Rehabilitation Over Punishment

For offenders identified in operations such as sobriety checkpoints or those struggling with addiction, the new model includes redirecting individuals to legal authorities who can mandate rehabilitation programs rather than solely imposing fines.

A More Robust Structure

Monsreal Padilla emphasized that this shift requires a stronger support system. “It’s no longer just the judge. Now, we need conciliators, doctors, and psychologists to assist in the process. First, there’s dialogue, then follow-up, professional evaluation, and finally, the appropriate sanction,” he explained.

Currently, the municipality employs three civic judges, but under this new framework, mediators, lawyers, and mental health specialists will also be integrated to ensure more humane and effective conflict resolution.

Adapting Physical Spaces

The official added that civic court offices will need to adapt to the standardized model under the "Justice for the Culture of Peace" initiative, with designated spaces for mediation, psychological services, and public assistance. The goal is to foster a civic justice system that is more accessible, preventive, and restorative.