Protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in Georgia is one of the most pressing and sensitive legal areas. Although legislation formally prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, in practice, community members often face hate speech, physical violence, workplace discrimination, and restrictions on family rights. Defending LGBTQ+ rights requires not only legal expertise but also the highest standard of confidentiality and empathy from the lawyer. Specialists featured on Legal.ge are ready to defend your rights and dignity in any instance.
Legal battles often involve issues such as hate crimes, legal gender recognition for transgender people in documents, and freedom of assembly (Pride events). Additionally, property and inheritance disputes are relevant because Georgia does not recognize same-sex marriage, leaving partners without legal guarantees. Qualified lawyers offer alternative legal mechanisms (e.g., wills, partnership agreements) to protect your interests within the existing legislative framework.
What does the LGBTQ+ Rights service cover?
- Hate Crimes: Representing victims in criminal cases where the crime was committed on homophobic or transphobic grounds (aggravating circumstance).
- Workplace Discrimination: Employment disputes regarding dismissal or harassment due to sexual orientation.
- Legal Gender Recognition: Legal assistance regarding procedures for changing the gender marker in identity documents (including utilizing Strasbourg Court case law).
- Freedom of Assembly: Legal support to protect the right to hold peaceful rallies and events.
- Asylum Claims: Legal aid for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking asylum in Georgia or abroad due to persecution.
- Property and Inheritance Planning: Regulating property relations for same-sex couples through contract law.
Common scenarios requiring this service
A typical scenario involves a transgender woman wishing to change the gender marker on her ID, but the Civil Registry refuses due to the lack of gender reassignment surgery. This issue requires litigation. Another scenario is a gay couple wanting to protect a jointly purchased apartment in case of one partner's death; since marriage is not registered, special agreements must be drafted. A third case involves a physical attack based on orientation, where the lawyer must ensure the investigation qualifies the fact as a hate-motivated crime.
Georgian Legal Framework
The Constitution of Georgia and the Anti-Discrimination Law prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The Criminal Code (Article 53) defines discriminatory motive as an aggravating circumstance for all crimes. However, the Civil Code defines marriage only as a union between a woman and a man. Decisions of the European Court of Human Rights (e.g., cases on Pride attacks in Georgia) create significant legal leverage for protecting rights.
Step-by-step service process
The process begins with a confidential consultation. In criminal cases, the lawyer gets involved during questioning and investigative actions to protect the victim's rights and prevent secondary victimization. In civil cases (discrimination, document changes), a lawsuit is prepared for court. Strategic litigation is often used, aiming not only to protect a specific individual but also to achieve systemic changes (e.g., through the Constitutional Court).
Why choose a specialist on Legal.ge?
LGBTQ+ issues require specific knowledge and experience. Legal.ge gives you access to lawyers who collaborate with human rights organizations, are familiar with international practices, and create a safe environment for clients. They will help you defend your identity and rights against discrimination.
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