The local community has a keen interest in legal matters concerning bank loans, particularly due to frequent disputes with microfinance institutions resulting in legal proceedings. In the highland areas of Adjara and Imereti regions, citizens frequently turn to student-paralegals for assistance and guidance regarding loan issues during community meetings.

Thus, on April 5 and 12, fifty student-paralegals from the Imereti and Adjara regions participated in a training session focused on the Legal Aspects of Loan Agreements.

This initiative is part of the broader Make Justice Accessible for All: Paralegal Initiative, supported by the Legal Aid Service (LAS) and the USAID Rule of Law Program.

Guiding the session was Maia Bakradze, a former judge of the Tbilisi Court of Appeals, who provided participants with insights into concept of loan agreements and their various forms, creditor obligations, and loan interest.

Additionally, she addressed the invalidity of loan agreements and the satisfaction of claims resulting from void transactions.

Discussions also encompassed methods of claim satisfaction without addressing the court, such as through notary services, enforcement bureaus, private mediation, and arbitration, as well as litigation in court. A specific type of sale contract, 'Sale with the right of redemption,' was discussed due to the significant risks it poses for borrowers.

By equipping student-paralegals with specialized knowledge and skills, the initiative not only fosters legal literacy within communities, but also helps strengthen access to justice for all.