For the Georgian Bar Association, it is of utmost importance that every lawyer is able to carry out their professional activities freely and without hindrance, as this is essential to ensuring due process and fair trial in a democratic society.

Based on individual appeals received from lawyers and information disseminated through the media, the Association has become aware that on 22 May 2025, several lawyers were denied access to the premises of the Tbilisi City Court by representatives of the Court Marshal Service and law enforcement authorities. According to the lawyers’ accounts, in some instances, there were cases of physical contact and inappropriate treatment, which constitute violations of lawyers’ rights.

We wish to emphasize that the uninterrupted exercise of a lawyer’s professional activities is protected both by the Constitution of Georgia and the Law of Georgia on Lawyers. Under this law, a lawyer has the right to act freely and to defend the interests of their client in court without any obstacles or restrictions. Accordingly, any action that aims to, or results in, obstructing a lawyer’s professional activity constitutes a violation of the law.

The relevant authorities responsible for maintaining security within the court premises and buildings must respect lawyers and ensure all necessary conditions for the proper exercise of their rights.

We call upon the administration of the Tbilisi City Court to ensure, in the future — including in high-profile cases or any other circumstances — that security measures are implemented in a manner that also guarantees the unhindered performance of lawyers’ professional duties. For instance, the introduction of a separate entrance for lawyers could facilitate their professional access while avoiding disruption to other ongoing court proceedings.

The Georgian Bar Association will continue to closely monitor this matter and will take all appropriate measures to ensure that no lawyer’s professional activity is restricted, within the framework of the law.