Emergency Response Legal Support is a specialized legal service for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), charitable foundations, and volunteer groups operating in crisis situations. Natural disasters, pandemics, or armed conflicts create a complex legal environment where the timely delivery of humanitarian aid is vital but often faces bureaucratic barriers. The aim of this service is to help humanitarian actors operate in full compliance with the law, quickly pass customs and tax procedures, ensure personnel safety, and effectively manage resources in force majeure situations. Qualified legal assistance reduces administrative delays and allows organizations to focus directly on providing aid.
What does Emergency Response Support cover?
Legal.ge specialists offer the non-governmental sector the following services:
- Customs clearance of humanitarian cargo: Assistance in accelerating customs procedures, obtaining tax exemptions (VAT exemption), and processing documentation.
- Legal status of volunteers: Drafting volunteer agreements, regulating insurance and liability issues.
- Operational permits: Obtaining special permits from state agencies for entry and activities in crisis zones.
- Grant management: Registration of emergency grants and reporting in relations with donors and the state.
- Memorandums of cooperation: Signing cooperation agreements with the state and local municipalities for coordinated action.
Real-world scenarios
Legal assistance is critical in the following cases:
- Import of medicines: A foundation wants to import a large amount of medicine from abroad for a disaster zone. Quick permission from the Ministry of Health and exemption from customs duties are required.
- Assistance to displaced persons: An NGO helps eco-migrants or displaced persons in restoring legal documents and receiving social assistance.
- Volunteer group: A group of volunteers working in a disaster zone needs a legal framework to avoid liability in case of an accident.
- Financial audit: After an emergency, the tax authority checks the appropriateness of charitable expenses. The organization needs a legal audit and defense.
Georgian Legislation and NGOs in Emergencies
The field is regulated by the Law of Georgia on Civil Safety, which defines the role of volunteers and organizations in rescue measures. The Tax Code of Georgia provides certain exemptions for charitable activities, although receiving them requires "Charitable Organization" status or special procedures. The Law on Grants regulates the receipt of foreign aid. Also important is the Law on Medicines and Pharmaceutical Activities if medical aid is involved. During a state of emergency, presidential decrees apply, which may simplify or complicate NGO activities.
Service Process
- Needs Identification: Analysis of the organization's goals and legal barriers.
- Rapid Response: Quick preparation of documents (e.g., customs declaration, permit request).
- Coordination: Managing communication with the state to obtain permits.
- Follow-up Support: Assistance in the reporting and audit process.
Why Legal.ge?
Legal.ge connects humanitarian organizations with lawyers experienced in NGO law and crisis management. In emergencies, time is of the essence. Through our platform, you will find specialists who will help you overcome bureaucracy so you can focus on helping people.
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