Lobbying Compliance

Lobbying Compliance is a legal service ensuring the legality of activities by individuals and organizations in the process of influencing legislative and executive authorities. Georgia has a "Law on Lobbying Activities" in force, which defines the status of a lobbyist, registration rules, and reporting obligations. Business associations, NGOs, and corporations often engage in advocacy for or against bills, but it is important to draw a line between legitimate advocacy and regulated lobbying. Incorrectly executed relationships with public officials or lobbying without registration can be considered illegal influence or corrupt dealings. The compliance service helps you act transparently, register as an official lobbyist if necessary, and maintain accurate reporting on funds spent and meetings held.

What does Lobbying Compliance service cover?

Legal.ge specialists offer full legal support to ensure the legality of lobbying activities:

• Lobbyist Registration: Completing the procedure for registering as a lobbyist with a representative body (Parliament, City Council) or executive agency, preparing the relevant application and documentation.
• Reporting and Declaration: Preparing reports on lobbying activities within the deadlines established by law, including declaring representation expenses and income received.
• Contract Execution: Legal drafting of the service agreement between the client and the lobbyist, clearly defining the subject of the service and excluding corruption risks.
• Adherence to Ethical Norms: Consultation on lobbying ethics standards and prevention of conflicts of interest.
• Legal Audit of Advocacy Strategy: Analyzing the planned campaign to determine if it requires formal registration under the lobbying law.

Why is this service important?

The activity of businesses and NGOs in the legislative process in Georgia is growing. Compliance protects you from the following risks:

• Reputational Damage: Accusations of "shadow lobbying" can be devastating to an organization's reputation.
• Legal Sanctions: Lobbying without registration or incorrect reporting can become grounds for administrative liability.
• Corruption Charges: The absence of a transparent process increases the risk of being suspected of corrupt dealings.

Georgian Legislation

The field is regulated by the Law of Georgia on Lobbying Activities, adopted in 1998. The law distinguishes between lobbying in legislative (Parliament) and executive bodies. A citizen of Georgia who has a contract with a client can register as a lobbyist. Also important is the Rules of Procedure of the Parliament of Georgia, which defines the rules for lobbyists' access to committee hearings. The Law on Conflict of Interest and Corruption in Public Service also sets restrictions for public officials in their dealings with lobbyists.

Process Stages

1. Status Determination: A lawyer assesses whether your activity falls under the lobbying law.
2. Registration: Applying to the relevant body (e.g., the Bureau of Parliament) for registration.
3. Activity: Participating in hearings with official status and submitting documents.
4. Reporting: Submitting periodic financial and activity reports.

Why Legal.ge?

Lobbying law in Georgia is specific and rarely used perfectly in practice, creating gray areas. Legal.ge experts will help you navigate this complex legal environment so that protecting your interests in state structures is effective, legal, and ethical.