Employment Contracts &
Labor Disputes.
Georgia's Labor Code is strict regarding technical errors. From drafting compliant employment contracts to defending against wrongful termination claims, we ensure your HR practices withstand scrutiny from the Labor Inspection and courts.
Regulatory Environment
The Georgian Labor Code
The Labor Code of Georgia has undergone significant reforms to align closer with EU standards. This means stricter regulations on overtime pay, termination grounds, and discrimination. Employers who rely on "handshake agreements" or generic templates often find themselves facing costly lawsuits in the Labor Court.
At Tbilisi Law, we act primarily for employers. We understand that flexibility is key to business success. We structure contracts that protect your intellectual property and provide clear mechanisms for performance management, ensuring you can scale your workforce without legal friction.
Our Capabilities
HR & Employment Solutions
Employment Contracts
Drafting robust bilingual contracts that clearly define probation periods, job descriptions, and compensation models. We ensure compliance with the mandatory requirements of the Labor Code.
Termination & Redundancy
Dismissing an employee is the highest-risk activity in Georgian HR. We advise on proper grounds for termination (gross misconduct, incompetence) and manage the written notification process to avoid wrongful dismissal claims.
Labor Disputes
Representing employers in court and mediation. Whether it's a dispute over unpaid overtime or a discrimination claim, our litigation team provides aggressive defense.
NDAs & Non-Competes
Protecting your trade secrets. We draft enforceable confidentiality agreements and non-compete clauses to prevent former employees from poaching your clients.
Internal Policy Handbooks
Creating the "Internal Labor Regulations" document mandatory for most companies. This sets the rules for working hours, holidays, and code of conduct.
Executive Compensation
Designing complex compensation packages for C-level executives, including stock options (ESOPs), bonuses, and severance packages.
Knowledge Base
HR Legal Questions
How long can a probation period be?
In Georgia, a probation period can last a maximum of 6 months. Crucially, this must be explicitly stated in a written contract. If there is no written contract, the employee is considered permanent from day one.
Is overtime pay mandatory?
Yes. Any work exceeding 40 hours per week (or 48 hours in specific sectors) is considered overtime. It must be compensated at an increased hourly rate (usually 1.25x or 1.5x) or exchanged for additional time off.
Can I fire an employee "at will"?
No. Georgia does not follow "at-will" employment. You must have a valid legal ground (e.g., gross misconduct, expiration of term, economic redundancy) and follow a specific notification procedure. Failing to do so usually results in the court ordering reinstatement and back pay.
Audit Your HR Compliance.
A single bad contract can cost thousands. Let us review your employment agreements today.