On April 13, 2024, Judge Timothy Baland, a U.S. judge from Minnesota participating in judicial exchange activities under the USAID Rule of Law Program, conducted a seminar for local lawyers in Gori.

The event hosted by the local branch of the Georgian Young Lawyers' Association (GYLA) saw the participation of eighteen lawyers working for the private sector and GYLA's Gori office.

During the seminar, Judge Baland addressed various legal issues, including the children’s rights and disparities between Georgian and U.S. judicial systems.

Judge Baland also spoke about the operations of the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, sharing insights into the mechanisms used to address allegations of human rights violations. He discussed civil penalties, mandatory training, and other tools utilized by investigators and advocates in the pursuit of justice.

The dialogue expanded to explore the details of child support in Minnesota, delving into the statutory formula underlying its calculation. Additionally, Judge Baland shared his expertise regarding children's direct access to the court, factors considered in contested custody cases, and various aspects of family law.

As part of the USAID Rule of Law Program, Judge Baland has consistently engaged with judges from different regions and the broader legal community to share his judicial experiences. His contributions are anticipated to continue through June 2024, fostering the ongoing development of professionalism within the Georgian legal community.