Frequently asked questions
Short, clear answers to the questions clients ask us most often. Can't find yours? Get in touch — the first consultation is free.
General questions
How do I choose a lawyer in Georgia?
Choose a lawyer with experience in your type of case, who gives you an honest assessment of the risks and agrees the fee in advance and in writing. At MMLAW the first consultation is free, so you can meet the lawyer before deciding.
How much does the initial consultation cost?
The initial consultation is free. We review your situation, explain your options and, if needed, propose terms for our engagement.
What documents should I bring?
Bring everything related to your case: ID, contracts, court decisions, notices, police or official reports and correspondence. If you don't have the documents, contact us anyway — we can help obtain them.
How long will my case take?
Every case is different. Some matters are settled through negotiation within weeks; court disputes can take months or longer. We give you a realistic estimate at the first consultation.
Do you work on a success-fee basis?
In certain categories of cases — yes. The fee structure and amount are agreed in advance and in writing, so there are no hidden costs.
Which languages do you work in?
We provide consultations and representation in Georgian, English and Russian — including for foreign nationals and international companies.
Where do you represent clients?
We represent clients before courts of all instances in Georgia — district (city) courts, courts of appeal and the Supreme Court — as well as before administrative bodies and investigative authorities.
What does a lawyer do?
A lawyer gives you legal advice, prepares documents and represents you in negotiations, before public authorities and in court. In criminal cases, a lawyer protects the rights of suspects and accused persons from the moment of arrest.
How much does a lawyer cost in Georgia?
Fees depend on the complexity and scope of the case — they can be fixed, hourly or success-based. The first consultation is free, and the fee is agreed in advance and in writing.
Can I consult a lawyer online?
Yes. Consultations are available at our office, by phone, on WhatsApp or by video call — in English, Georgian and Russian.
Criminal defense
Open pageWhen do I have the right to a lawyer in Georgia?
From the moment of arrest or of being charged — and before any questioning. You have the right to remain silent and to insist on your lawyer being present.
How long can I be held without a court decision?
Under the Constitution of Georgia, an arrested person must be brought before a court within 48 hours. If the court does not decide within the next 24 hours, the person must be released immediately.
What is a plea agreement?
An agreement between the prosecution and the accused on guilt and sentence, which must be approved by the court. A defense lawyer's participation is mandatory. Never sign anything without independent legal advice.
When should I contact a criminal defense lawyer?
As early as possible — ideally as soon as you are summoned for questioning, or during a search or arrest. Involving a lawyer early often decides the outcome: your lawyer helps you avoid mistakes when giving statements and protects your rights while evidence is gathered.
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost?
It depends on the complexity, stage and scope of the case. The first consultation is free — we assess the case and agree the fee with you in advance and in writing.
Civil litigation
Open pageHow are civil courts organised in Georgia?
First instance — district (city) courts; second instance — the Tbilisi and Kutaisi Courts of Appeal; the final, cassation instance — the Supreme Court of Georgia.
Can a dispute be resolved without going to court?
Yes — through negotiation, mediation or arbitration. For some categories of disputes (for example certain family, inheritance and neighbour disputes) court mediation may be mandatory.
How long do I have to file a claim?
It depends on the type of claim. Under the Civil Code of Georgia the general limitation period is 10 years, 3 years for contractual claims and 6 years for claims related to immovable property. Some claims have shorter periods, so it is best to act early.
Administrative law
Open pageWhat is the deadline to challenge an administrative act in court?
As a rule, one month from the date the act was officially delivered to you. Some cases have different statutory terms, so check the exact deadline immediately.
Do I have to file an administrative complaint first?
In some cases the law requires a complaint to the superior body before going to court; in others you may go straight to court. We assess which route is faster and stronger.
Can a fine be appealed?
Yes. A decision on an administrative offence can be appealed to the superior body or to the court within short statutory deadlines.
Juvenile justice
Open pageFrom what age is a person criminally liable in Georgia?
From 14. Special rules of the Juvenile Justice Code apply to persons under 18.
What is diversion?
Diversion allows a minor to avoid criminal prosecution by meeting certain conditions — for example mediation, community service or a rehabilitation programme. The decision is made by the prosecutor.
Can any lawyer defend a minor?
No. Under the Code, lawyers, judges, prosecutors and investigators working on juvenile cases must be specialised.
Labor disputes
Open pageWhat can I do if I was dismissed unlawfully?
You can ask your employer for the written grounds of dismissal and challenge it in court, seeking reinstatement or compensation. Deadlines are short (as a rule, 30 calendar days), so contact a lawyer immediately.
Is an oral employment contract valid?
An oral contract is possible, but a contract concluded for more than one month must be in writing.
Do you represent employees or employers?
Both. We help employees restore their rights, and help employers prevent disputes and represent them in court.
Corporate law
Open pageHow long does it take to register a company in Georgia?
With properly prepared documents, registering an LLC with the National Agency of Public Registry usually takes one business day.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a Georgian company?
Yes. Foreign individuals and companies can be the sole founders of a Georgian LLC.
Which law governs companies in Georgia?
The Law of Georgia on Entrepreneurs (new version in force since 2022).
Real estate
Open pageWhere is property ownership registered?
At the National Agency of Public Registry (NAPR). Ownership of real estate arises upon registration. A registry extract shows the owner and any encumbrances (mortgage, seizure).
Can foreigners buy property in Georgia?
Yes. Foreigners can freely buy apartments, houses and non-agricultural land. Purchase of agricultural land by foreigners is restricted by law.
What should I check before buying?
The registry extract (owner, mortgage, seizure, prohibitions), the seller's authority, permits for new construction, and any utility or other debts.
Family law
Open pageCan we divorce without going to court?
Yes — if both spouses agree and there is no dispute over children or property, the divorce can be registered with the Civil Registry (through the Public Service Hall). Otherwise the divorce is decided by a court.
How is property divided?
Property acquired during the marriage is the spouses' joint property and is, as a rule, divided equally unless a marriage contract says otherwise. Property owned before marriage, gifts and inheritance remain personal property.
How is alimony determined?
Parents must support their minor children. The amount depends on the child's needs and the parents' financial situation — set by agreement or by the court.
Inheritance
Open pageHow long do I have to accept an inheritance?
6 months from the opening of the inheritance — as a rule, the date of death. You can accept it by applying to a notary or by actually taking possession of the property.
Who are the first-line heirs?
The deceased's children (including adopted children), spouse and parents. They inherit in equal shares unless a will provides otherwise.
What if I missed the 6-month deadline?
If you missed it for a valid reason, a court can extend it. Whether you actually took possession of the property also matters. We'll assess your case.
Can a will be challenged?
Yes — for example if the will's form was not respected or the testator was not aware of their actions when making it. Certain close relatives may also be entitled to a compulsory share regardless of the will.
Am I liable for the deceased's debts?
As a rule, an heir is liable for debts only up to the value of the property inherited. It's worth checking the debts before accepting — if needed, you can renounce the inheritance.
Intellectual property
Open pageWhere are trademarks registered in Georgia?
With Sakpatenti — the National Intellectual Property Center of Georgia. International registration is possible through the Madrid system.
How long does trademark protection last?
10 years from the filing date, renewable every 10 years.
Does copyright need to be registered?
No — copyright arises automatically when a work is created. Depositing the work with Sakpatenti helps prove authorship.
For foreigners
Open pageCan I work with you remotely?
Yes. Most matters are handled online and by phone; where a signature is needed in Georgia, we can act for you under a notarised power of attorney.
Do you work in English and Russian?
Yes. Consultations, documents and correspondence are available in Georgian, English and Russian.
Do my foreign documents need an apostille?
Usually yes. Georgia is a party to the Apostille Convention: documents issued abroad generally need an apostille (or consular legalisation) and a certified Georgian translation.
Does buying property give me a residence permit?
Owning property can be a basis for a short-term residence permit if its value meets the threshold set by law (currently USD 100,000). The permit is not automatic — you have to apply for it.
Can I buy property without coming to Georgia?
Yes. You can give a notarised power of attorney (apostilled if signed abroad) to your lawyer or a trusted person, who signs and registers the purchase for you.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Georgia?
Yes. Foreign individuals and companies can be the sole founder and director of a Georgian LLC.
Do I need to be in Georgia to register a company?
Not necessarily. Registration can be done through a representative with a notarised power of attorney. Opening a bank account usually needs more preparation, as each bank runs its own checks.
How are companies taxed in Georgia?
Profit tax (15%) is generally paid only when profit is distributed, for example as dividends. Small-business status for individual entrepreneurs offers a 1% turnover tax up to an annual limit. We check which regime fits your activity.
How long does a residence permit application take?
The standard review takes up to about 30 days; an expedited review is available for an extra fee. We tell you the current timelines when we prepare your application.
Can a refusal be appealed?
Yes. A refusal is an administrative decision and can be challenged — first administratively, then in court. Deadlines are short (usually one month), so contact a lawyer as soon as you receive it.
Do I need a work permit to work in Georgia?
Labour-migration rules have been tightened in recent years, and foreigners working in Georgia may need a work permit or to register their employment. We check what applies to you before you start work.
I'm a foreigner and was detained in Georgia. What are my rights?
You have the right to remain silent, to a lawyer before any questioning, to a free interpreter and to have your consulate informed. Ask for a lawyer immediately and don't sign anything you don't understand.
Will my consulate be informed?
Yes, if you ask. A detained foreigner has the right to request that the consulate of their country be informed of the detention.
Can my family hire a lawyer from abroad?
Yes. A family member can contact us by phone or WhatsApp; we sign the engagement remotely and step into the case immediately.
Can foreigners divorce in Georgia?
Often yes — especially if the marriage was registered in Georgia or one spouse lives here. Which court is competent and which country's law applies depends on the case, so get advice first.
Is a foreign court decision valid in Georgia?
Before it can be enforced, a foreign court decision generally has to be recognised in Georgia. Recognition is handled by the Supreme Court of Georgia; we prepare the application and the translated documents.
What if the other parent took our child abroad?
If a child has been wrongfully removed to or kept in a country that is party to the Hague Convention, you can ask for the child's return. Act quickly — time is critical in these cases.
Georgians abroad
Open pageCan I accept an inheritance in Georgia without coming?
Yes. Your representative can file the application with the notary under a power of attorney. The key is not to miss the 6-month deadline.
Where do I sign a power of attorney?
At a Georgian embassy or consulate, or with a local notary — then an apostille and a certified Georgian translation are needed. We prepare the text for you.
What if the 6-month deadline has passed?
If you missed it for a valid reason, a court can extend it. Whether you actually took possession of the property also matters. We'll assess your case.
Can I sell an apartment by power of attorney?
Yes. A lawyer or trusted person signs the sale and registers it with the Public Registry under your power of attorney. We check that the deal is safe.
Do I need to come to Georgia for a divorce?
Usually not — your lawyer can represent you in court under a power of attorney. If you divorced abroad, the decision may need to be recognised in Georgia.
How do I get a consultation?
By WhatsApp, phone, email or video call — in Georgian, English or Russian.
How much does it cost?
The first conversation is free. The fee and payment terms are agreed in advance and in writing.
How will I know what's happening in my case?
We update you at every important step on WhatsApp or by email and send you copies of the documents.
Need legal advice? Talk to an attorney today.
The first consultation is free and confidential.
- Phone+995 551 00 43 00
- WhatsApp+995 551 00 43 00
- Emailinfo@mmlaw.ge
- OfficeTbilisi, Georgia
- HoursMonday–Friday, 10:00–18:00