More than two weeks have passed since the devastating floods in Nepal, during which 33 travelers from Latvia went missing. While the search continues, their relatives in Latvia are facing serious legal and practical issues — from paying bills to accessing bank accounts and managing property, reports [TV3 News](https://tv3.lv/zinas/latvija/sabiedriba/aizbildnieciba-krediti-piekluve-kontiem-nepala-pazuduso-latviesu-tuviniekiem-bez-nezinas-ir-virkne-neatbildetu-jautajumu/). This meeting was dedicated to these issues, bringing together the families of the missing, the Minister of Justice, lawyers, and representatives of government institutions. According to the relative of one of the missing, Ieva Taranda, many families find it difficult to navigate the legal procedures on their own. > “Bills need to be paid, inheritance matters need to be arranged, and we need to understand how to move forward. There are people who simply don’t know how to legally resolve all these issues. These bureaucratic hurdles are just terrible,” she said. ## What Problems Families Have to Solve It is not just about everyday expenses. In many cases, it is necessary to gain access to the bank accounts of the missing, fulfill loan obligations, manage businesses, or arrange guardianship for children. Minister of Justice Edvards Smiltens provided an example where a company's operations effectively ceased due to the disappearance of its owner. > “There is a case where a company has one owner, and his wife is the only employee. There is no access to the account, and it is impossible to issue invoices. Such situations need to be resolved through the court by establishing guardianship,” the minister explained. ## Lawyers Will Provide Help for Free To ensure that families do not face these problems alone, the Council of Sworn Advocates of Latvia has decided to provide free legal assistance. According to the chairman of the council, Saulvedis Varpinsh, each case will be considered individually. To receive assistance, relatives need to contact the Council of Sworn Advocates and attach a certificate confirming the status of the missing person. This measure is intended to eliminate possible attempts at fraud. Additionally, the Ministry of Justice has posted recommendations on its website for addressing the most common issues — from settling financial obligations to arranging guardianship and managing property. This list is promised to be expanded as new inquiries arise. While the fate of the missing remains unknown, the state is trying to help their families resolve at least those issues that can be addressed right now.
