The USAID Rule of Law Program recognizes the importance of legal literacy, critical thinking skills, and civic responsibility among high school students. By actively engaging in mock trials, students can cultivate these qualities and develop a better understanding and appreciation of the legal system, as well as the rights and responsibilities it entails.

As part of its efforts, the Program supports the Legal Aid Service (LAS) to conduct mock trials throughout Georgia. Recently, high school students from Keda Public School in mountainous Adjara had the opportunity to serve as civil jurors in a mock trial at the Keda Magistrate Court. The trial focused on determining the best interests of a child with ADHD whose parents were divorcing.

Giorgi Chkheidze, Chief of Party for the USAID Rule of Law Program, spoke with the students and emphasized the importance of knowing their rights. He highlighted that understanding their rights empowers young people to advocate for themselves and others, protecting against abuse and misconduct. Mr. Chkheidze also emphasized that knowing one's rights allows individuals to express their opinions and participate in decisions that affect them, ensuring due process and safeguarding against discrimination and harassment.

Davit Simonia, the LAS Director, served as the judge in the moot court and provided instructions to the jury on how to reach their verdict. The jury received written forms outlining possible verdicts in advance.

Zura Gujabidze, a student-paralegal and a participant in the mock trial, shared his insightful perspective, stating, "Engaging in a mock trial within the field of civil law allowed me to test my abilities as a lawyer in this area. Representing the plaintiff, who was the mother of a minor, I focused on advocating for the best interests of the child. While I had prior experience in criminal mock trials, this was my first foray into civil law and I had to adapt to the role of a civil lawyer. It provided me with invaluable insights into the unique characteristics that set civil law apart from criminal law. Mock trials offer an exceptional platform to apply theoretical knowledge and practical skills, and this experience was no exception."

At the end of the mock trial, certificates of appreciation were presented to the jury member students by Giorgi Chkheidze and Davit Simonia.

Prior to this event, the Rule of Law Program had organized two mock trials at Batumi City Court involving student-paralegals. These trials were overseen by a panel of Georgian judges and an American judge. These initiatives aim to engage students in practical legal exercises and foster a deeper understanding of the rule of law and its significance in society.