On April 12, 2024, eight attorneys from the Legal Aid Service Bureau in Gori met with Judge Timothy Baland, a U.S. judge from Minnesota participating in judicial exchange activities as part of the USAID Rule of Law Program. The main purpose of the meeting was to exchange insights on the legal aid and judicial system operations in Minnesota and Georgia.

During the meeting, attendees were introduced to innovative initiatives developed in the Minesota amidst the pandemic, most notably the pioneering Legal Kiosk Project. Community-based Legal Kiosks help Minnesotans who face technology access and transportation barriers to have a healthy and safe experience interacting with civil legal aid experts, as well as the administrative and court systems in which their cases will be proceeding.

Judge Baland also shared information about the deployment of Justice Buses. These mobile legal aid offices travel to rural areas, offering in-person meetings and access to legal information, thereby ensuring that clients can receive assistance without having to travel long distances from their homes.

As the discussions progressed, the focus turned to child custody disputes, requiring Judge Baland to navigate the complexities of Minnesota's child custody statute. Throughout the session, the judge addressed questions regarding custodial preferences and the role of Guardians ad Litem in safeguarding the interests of children.

The meeting concluded with reflections and discussions on cases involving abused or neglected children, with Judge Baland's words resonating with empathy and compassion.