From October 31 to November 2, 2023, the Legal Aid Service with the support of the USAID Rule of Law Program’s Batumi Rule of Law Hub presented the Make Justice Accessible for All - Paralegals Initiative to the residents and the representatives of the local self-governance institutions of Mestia Municipality.

On October 31, the student-paralegals from the Batumi Rule of Law Hub engaged in discussions with over 20 local residents, addressing issues involving inheritance rights, labor law concerns, and the rights of persons with disabilities. They also shared information about the services provided by the Legal Aid Service and its associated legislative obligations. Towards the end of the meeting, the student-paralegals responded to questions from the residents of Mestia. The community members reported that access to justice is a significant challenge and mentioned that the absence of a magistrate judge in Mestia is a problem.

On the same day, a mock trial (attended by 25 school students and teachers) concerning the best interests of the child took place at the Mestia Magistrate Court. The opposing parties were paralegal students, while high school students from Mestia public schools assumed the roles of jurors. Levan Gvenetadze, the Deputy Director of the State-funded Legal Aid Service served as judge.

The Director of the Legal Aid Service, David Simonia, and the Regional Rule of Law Adviser of the USAID Rule of Law Program, Irina Lortkipanidze, addressed the school pupils, emphasizing the significance of access to justice, the enhancement of legal awareness among young people, and their civic responsibilities. They highlighted that participating in such events would enhance the justice system. Following the mock trial, the students engaged in lively discussions posed questions, and eventually reached a final decision after a heated debate.

On November 1, another meeting was held at the public school in the village of Becho, Mestia municipality. During the meeting, 28 schoolchildren and teachers were introduced to LAS services and their mission in safeguarding children's rights. They also received information about a mobile application through which they could seek legal advice anonymously.

The paralegal students engaged with the children, discussing topics like bullying, inclusive education, and the rights of children as outlined in the Child Rights Code and the Convention. Additionally, brochures on various legal issues were distributed to the meeting's participants.