The 'conversation' is going nowhere by this point, but let me ask just one question: in what way are tribunals 'not part of the legal system'?

Yes, by definition tribunals are not courts. There are a vast array of them - some make decisions on the basis of policy, but they must still apply legal principles getting there.  Many operate in a manner almost identical to courts - they operate to resolve legal disputes on the basis of law, hear sworn evidence subject to cross-examination, and are subject to review by courts - all on the basis of law.

I'm talking about such tribunals as labour relations boards, labour arbitration boards, landlord and tenant boards, immigration and refugee boards, human rights tribunals, workers’ compensation boards, and so on. 

Perhaps you don't consider them part of the legal system because they don't require lawyers, and they follow generally expedited procedures.  In other words, they are examples of the kind of legal system you say doesn't exist.