O.C.G.A. § 19-7-46-1 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 7 / Section 19-7-46-1
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-7-46.1
Status: in_force

(a) The appearance of the name or social security account number of the father, entered with his written consent, on the certificate of birth or a certified copy of such certificate or records on which the name of the alleged father was entered with his written consent from the vital records department of another state or the registration of the father, entered with his written consent, in the putative father registry of this state, pursuant to subsection (d) of Code Section 19-11-9 , shall constitute a prima-facie case of establishment of paternity and the burden of proof shall shift to the putative father to rebut such in a proceeding for the determination of paternity.

(a) The appearance of the name or social security account number of the father, entered with his written consent, on the certificate of birth or a certified copy of such certificate or records on which the name of the alleged father was entered with his written consent from the vital records department of another state or the registration of the father, entered with his written consent, in the putative father registry of this state, pursuant to subsection (d) of Code Section 19-11-9 , shall constitute a prima-facie case of establishment of paternity and the burden of proof shall shift to the putative father to rebut such in a proceeding for the determination of paternity.

(b) When both the mother and father have signed a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity in the presence of a notary public swearing or affirming the statements contained in the acknowledgment are true and such acknowledgment is filed with the State Office of Vital Records within 30 days of its execution and is recorded in the putative father registry established by subsection (d) of Code Section 19-11-9 , the acknowledgment shall constitute a legal determination of paternity, subject to the right of any signatory to rescind the acknowledgment prior to the date of the support order, any other order adjudicating paternity, or 60 days from the signing of the agreement, whichever is earlier. Recording such information in the putative father registry shall constitute a legal determination of paternity for purposes of establishing a future order for support and other matters under Code Section 19-7-51 . Acknowledgment of paternity shall establish the biological father, as such term is defined in Code Section 19-7-22 , but shall not constitute a legal determination of legitimation pursuant to Code Section 19-7-22 .

(b) When both the mother and father have signed a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity in the presence of a notary public swearing or affirming the statements contained in the acknowledgment are true and such acknowledgment is filed with the State Office of Vital Records within 30 days of its execution and is recorded in the putative father registry established by subsection (d) of Code Section 19-11-9 , the acknowledgment shall constitute a legal determination of paternity, subject to the right of any signatory to rescind the acknowledgment prior to the date of the support order, any other order adjudicating paternity, or 60 days from the signing of the agreement, whichever is earlier. Recording such information in the putative father registry shall constitute a legal determination of paternity for purposes of establishing a future order for support and other matters under Code Section 19-7-51 . Acknowledgment of paternity shall establish the biological father, as such term is defined in Code Section 19-7-22 , but shall not constitute a legal determination of legitimation pursuant to Code Section 19-7-22 .

(c) After the 60 day rescission period specified in subsection (b) of this Code section, the signed voluntary acknowledgment of paternity may be challenged in court only on the basis of fraud, duress, or material mistake of fact, with the burden of proof on the person challenging the acknowledgment. The legal responsibilities of any signatory, including child support obligations, arising from the acknowledgment may not be suspended during the challenge, except for good cause shown.

(c) After the 60 day rescission period specified in subsection (b) of this Code section, the signed voluntary acknowledgment of paternity may be challenged in court only on the basis of fraud, duress, or material mistake of fact, with the burden of proof on the person challenging the acknowledgment. The legal responsibilities of any signatory, including child support obligations, arising from the acknowledgment may not be suspended during the challenge, except for good cause shown.

(d) A copy of a signed voluntary acknowledgment of paternity shall be provided to any signatory upon request.

(d) A copy of a signed voluntary acknowledgment of paternity shall be provided to any signatory upon request.

(e)(1) As used in this subsection, the term: (A) “ Child-placing agency ” means an agency licensed as such pursuant to Chapter 5 of Title 49. (B) “ Legal custodian ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 15-11-2 . (C) “ Local custodian ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 31-10-1 . (D) “ State registrar ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 31-10-1 . (2) The state registrar or local custodian, upon receipt of a written application, shall issue a certified copy of voluntary acknowledgment of paternity in the state registrar's or local custodian's custody to: (A) The person who signed such acknowledgment and his or her guardian or temporary guardian; (B) The person whose paternity was acknowledged, if he or she is at least 18 years of age; (C) The guardian, temporary guardian, or legal custodian of the person whose paternity was acknowledged; (D) The living legal spouse or next of kin, the legal representative, or the person who in good faith has applied and produced a record of such application to become the legal representative of the person whose paternity is registered; (E) A court of competent jurisdiction upon its order or subpoena; (F) Any governmental agency, state or federal, provided that such certificate shall be needed for official purposes; (G) A member in good standing of the State Bar of Georgia, provided that such certificate shall be needed for purposes of legal investigation on behalf of a client; and (H) A child-placing agency, provided that such certificate shall be needed for official purposes.

(e)(1) As used in this subsection, the term: (A) “ Child-placing agency ” means an agency licensed as such pursuant to Chapter 5 of Title 49. (B) “ Legal custodian ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 15-11-2 . (C) “ Local custodian ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 31-10-1 . (D) “ State registrar ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 31-10-1 .

(e)(1) As used in this subsection, the term:

(A) “ Child-placing agency ” means an agency licensed as such pursuant to Chapter 5 of Title 49.

(A) “ Child-placing agency ” means an agency licensed as such pursuant to Chapter 5 of Title 49.

(B) “ Legal custodian ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 15-11-2 .

(B) “ Legal custodian ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 15-11-2 .

(C) “ Local custodian ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 31-10-1 .

(C) “ Local custodian ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 31-10-1 .

(D) “ State registrar ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 31-10-1 .

(D) “ State registrar ” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 31-10-1 .

(2) The state registrar or local custodian, upon receipt of a written application, shall issue a certified copy of voluntary acknowledgment of paternity in the state registrar's or local custodian's custody to: (A) The person who signed such acknowledgment and his or her guardian or temporary guardian; (B) The person whose paternity was acknowledged, if he or she is at least 18 years of age; (C) The guardian, temporary guardian, or legal custodian of the person whose paternity was acknowledged; (D) The living legal spouse or next of kin, the legal representative, or the person who in good faith has applied and produced a record of such application to become the legal representative of the person whose paternity is registered; (E) A court of competent jurisdiction upon its order or subpoena; (F) Any governmental agency, state or federal, provided that such certificate shall be needed for official purposes; (G) A member in good standing of the State Bar of Georgia, provided that such certificate shall be needed for purposes of legal investigation on behalf of a client; and (H) A child-placing agency, provided that such certificate shall be needed for official purposes.

(2) The state registrar or local custodian, upon receipt of a written application, shall issue a certified copy of voluntary acknowledgment of paternity in the state registrar's or local custodian's custody to:

(A) The person who signed such acknowledgment and his or her guardian or temporary guardian;

(A) The person who signed such acknowledgment and his or her guardian or temporary guardian;

(B) The person whose paternity was acknowledged, if he or she is at least 18 years of age;

(B) The person whose paternity was acknowledged, if he or she is at least 18 years of age;

(C) The guardian, temporary guardian, or legal custodian of the person whose paternity was acknowledged;

(C) The guardian, temporary guardian, or legal custodian of the person whose paternity was acknowledged;

(D) The living legal spouse or next of kin, the legal representative, or the person who in good faith has applied and produced a record of such application to become the legal representative of the person whose paternity is registered;

(D) The living legal spouse or next of kin, the legal representative, or the person who in good faith has applied and produced a record of such application to become the legal representative of the person whose paternity is registered;

(E) A court of competent jurisdiction upon its order or subpoena;

(E) A court of competent jurisdiction upon its order or subpoena;

(F) Any governmental agency, state or federal, provided that such certificate shall be needed for official purposes;

(F) Any governmental agency, state or federal, provided that such certificate shall be needed for official purposes;

(G) A member in good standing of the State Bar of Georgia, provided that such certificate shall be needed for purposes of legal investigation on behalf of a client; and

(G) A member in good standing of the State Bar of Georgia, provided that such certificate shall be needed for purposes of legal investigation on behalf of a client; and

(H) A child-placing agency, provided that such certificate shall be needed for official purposes.

(H) A child-placing agency, provided that such certificate shall be needed for official purposes.
O.C.G.A. § 19-8-11 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 8 / Section 19-8-11
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-8-11
Status: in_force

(a)(1) In those cases when the department, a child-placing agency, or an out-of-state licensed agency has obtained the voluntary written surrender of all parental rights from one of the parents or the guardian of a child or has obtained an order from a court of competent jurisdiction terminating all of the rights of one of the parents or the guardian of a child, such department, child-placing agency, or out-of-state licensed agency may in contemplation of the placement of such child for adoption petition the superior court of the county of the child's domicile, of the county where the child was born, of the county in which is located the principal office of the child-placing agency having legal custody of the child, or of the county in which is located the office of the department having legal custody of the child to terminate the parental rights of the remaining parent pursuant to this Code section. (2) In those cases when a child has been placed in compliance with Chapter 4 of Title 39, and the individual who is the resident of another state has obtained the voluntary written surrender of all parental rights from one of the parents or the guardian of a child, each such individual to whom the child has been surrendered may in contemplation of the adoption of such child in such other state petition the superior court of the county where the child was born or of Fulton County to terminate the parental rights of the remaining parent pursuant to this Code section. (3)(A) Parental rights may be terminated pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection when the court determines by clear and convincing evidence that the: (i) Child has been abandoned by that parent; (ii) Parent of the child cannot be found after a diligent search has been made; (iii) Parent is insane or otherwise incapacitated from surrendering such rights; (iv) Parent caused his child to be conceived as a result of having nonconsensual sexual intercourse with the biological mother of his child or when the biological mother is less than ten years of age; or (v) Parent, without justifiable cause, has failed to exercise proper parental care or control due to misconduct or inability, as set out in paragraph (3), (4), or (5) of subsection (a) of Code Section 15-11-310 . (B) If the court determines that a circumstance described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph has been met, it shall set the matter down to be heard in chambers not less than 30 and not more than 60 days following the receipt by such remaining parent of the notice under subsection (b) of this Code section and shall enter an order terminating such parental rights if it so finds and if it is of the opinion that adoption is in the best interests of the child, after considering the physical, mental, emotional, and moral condition and needs of the child who is the subject of the proceeding, including the need for a secure and stable home.

(a)(1) In those cases when the department, a child-placing agency, or an out-of-state licensed agency has obtained the voluntary written surrender of all parental rights from one of the parents or the guardian of a child or has obtained an order from a court of competent jurisdiction terminating all of the rights of one of the parents or the guardian of a child, such department, child-placing agency, or out-of-state licensed agency may in contemplation of the placement of such child for adoption petition the superior court of the county of the child's domicile, of the county where the child was born, of the county in which is located the principal office of the child-placing agency having legal custody of the child, or of the county in which is located the office of the department having legal custody of the child to terminate the parental rights of the remaining parent pursuant to this Code section.

(a)(1) In those cases when the department, a child-placing agency, or an out-of-state licensed agency has obtained the voluntary written surrender of all parental rights from one of the parents or the guardian of a child or has obtained an order from a court of competent jurisdiction terminating all of the rights of one of the parents or the guardian of a child, such department, child-placing agency, or out-of-state licensed agency may in contemplation of the placement of such child for adoption petition the superior court of the county of the child's domicile, of the county where the child was born, of the county in which is located the principal office of the child-placing agency having legal custody of the child, or of the county in which is located the office of the department having legal custody of the child to terminate the parental rights of the remaining parent pursuant to this Code section.

(2) In those cases when a child has been placed in compliance with Chapter 4 of Title 39, and the individual who is the resident of another state has obtained the voluntary written surrender of all parental rights from one of the parents or the guardian of a child, each such individual to whom the child has been surrendered may in contemplation of the adoption of such child in such other state petition the superior court of the county where the child was born or of Fulton County to terminate the parental rights of the remaining parent pursuant to this Code section.

(2) In those cases when a child has been placed in compliance with Chapter 4 of Title 39, and the individual who is the resident of another state has obtained the voluntary written surrender of all parental rights from one of the parents or the guardian of a child, each such individual to whom the child has been surrendered may in contemplation of the adoption of such child in such other state petition the superior court of the county where the child was born or of Fulton County to terminate the parental rights of the remaining parent pursuant to this Code section.

(3)(A) Parental rights may be terminated pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection when the court determines by clear and convincing evidence that the: (i) Child has been abandoned by that parent; (ii) Parent of the child cannot be found after a diligent search has been made; (iii) Parent is insane or otherwise incapacitated from surrendering such rights; (iv) Parent caused his child to be conceived as a result of having nonconsensual sexual intercourse with the biological mother of his child or when the biological mother is less than ten years of age; or (v) Parent, without justifiable cause, has failed to exercise proper parental care or control due to misconduct or inability, as set out in paragraph (3), (4), or (5) of subsection (a) of Code Section 15-11-310 . (B) If the court determines that a circumstance described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph has been met, it shall set the matter down to be heard in chambers not less than 30 and not more than 60 days following the receipt by such remaining parent of the notice under subsection (b) of this Code section and shall enter an order terminating such parental rights if it so finds and if it is of the opinion that adoption is in the best interests of the child, after considering the physical, mental, emotional, and moral condition and needs of the child who is the subject of the proceeding, including the need for a secure and stable home.

(3)(A) Parental rights may be terminated pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection when the court determines by clear and convincing evidence that the: (i) Child has been abandoned by that parent; (ii) Parent of the child cannot be found after a diligent search has been made; (iii) Parent is insane or otherwise incapacitated from surrendering such rights; (iv) Parent caused his child to be conceived as a result of having nonconsensual sexual intercourse with the biological mother of his child or when the biological mother is less than ten years of age; or (v) Parent, without justifiable cause, has failed to exercise proper parental care or control due to misconduct or inability, as set out in paragraph (3), (4), or (5) of subsection (a) of Code Section 15-11-310 .

(3)(A) Parental rights may be terminated pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection when the court determines by clear and convincing evidence that the:

(i) Child has been abandoned by that parent;

(i) Child has been abandoned by that parent;

(ii) Parent of the child cannot be found after a diligent search has been made;

(ii) Parent of the child cannot be found after a diligent search has been made;

(iii) Parent is insane or otherwise incapacitated from surrendering such rights;

(iii) Parent is insane or otherwise incapacitated from surrendering such rights;

(iv) Parent caused his child to be conceived as a result of having nonconsensual sexual intercourse with the biological mother of his child or when the biological mother is less than ten years of age; or

(iv) Parent caused his child to be conceived as a result of having nonconsensual sexual intercourse with the biological mother of his child or when the biological mother is less than ten years of age; or

(v) Parent, without justifiable cause, has failed to exercise proper parental care or control due to misconduct or inability, as set out in paragraph (3), (4), or (5) of subsection (a) of Code Section 15-11-310 .

(v) Parent, without justifiable cause, has failed to exercise proper parental care or control due to misconduct or inability, as set out in paragraph (3), (4), or (5) of subsection (a) of Code Section 15-11-310 .

(B) If the court determines that a circumstance described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph has been met, it shall set the matter down to be heard in chambers not less than 30 and not more than 60 days following the receipt by such remaining parent of the notice under subsection (b) of this Code section and shall enter an order terminating such parental rights if it so finds and if it is of the opinion that adoption is in the best interests of the child, after considering the physical, mental, emotional, and moral condition and needs of the child who is the subject of the proceeding, including the need for a secure and stable home.

(B) If the court determines that a circumstance described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph has been met, it shall set the matter down to be heard in chambers not less than 30 and not more than 60 days following the receipt by such remaining parent of the notice under subsection (b) of this Code section and shall enter an order terminating such parental rights if it so finds and if it is of the opinion that adoption is in the best interests of the child, after considering the physical, mental, emotional, and moral condition and needs of the child who is the subject of the proceeding, including the need for a secure and stable home.

(b)(1) Whenever a petition to terminate parental rights is filed pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section, the parent whose rights the petitioner is seeking to terminate shall be personally served with a conformed copy of the petition to terminate parental rights and a copy of the court's order setting forth the date upon which such petition shall be considered or, if personal service cannot be perfected, by certified mail or registered mail, return receipt requested, or statutory overnight delivery, one-day service not required, at his or her last known address. If service cannot be made by these methods, such parent shall be given notice by publication once a week for three weeks in the official organ of the county where such petition has been filed and of the county of his or her last known address. In the interest of time, publication may be initiated simultaneously with efforts to perfect service personally, by certified mail or registered mail, or by statutory overnight delivery. The court shall continue to have the inherent authority to determine the sufficiency of service. A parent who receives notification pursuant to this paragraph shall not be a party to the adoption and shall have no obligation to file an answer, but shall have the right to appear in the pending termination of parental rights proceeding and show cause why such parent's rights to the child who is the subject of the proceeding should not be terminated. Notice shall be deemed to have been received on the earliest date: (A) Personal service is perfected; (B) Of delivery shown on the return receipt of certified mail or registered mail or proof of delivery by statutory overnight delivery; or (C) Of the last publication. (2) No prior order of court shall be required to publish notice pursuant to this Code section; provided, however, that before publication may be relied upon as a means of service, it shall be averred that, after diligent efforts, service could not be perfected personally, by certified mail, by registered mail, or by statutory overnight delivery.

(b)(1) Whenever a petition to terminate parental rights is filed pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section, the parent whose rights the petitioner is seeking to terminate shall be personally served with a conformed copy of the petition to terminate parental rights and a copy of the court's order setting forth the date upon which such petition shall be considered or, if personal service cannot be perfected, by certified mail or registered mail, return receipt requested, or statutory overnight delivery, one-day service not required, at his or her last known address. If service cannot be made by these methods, such parent shall be given notice by publication once a week for three weeks in the official organ of the county where such petition has been filed and of the county of his or her last known address. In the interest of time, publication may be initiated simultaneously with efforts to perfect service personally, by certified mail or registered mail, or by statutory overnight delivery. The court shall continue to have the inherent authority to determine the sufficiency of service. A parent who receives notification pursuant to this paragraph shall not be a party to the adoption and shall have no obligation to file an answer, but shall have the right to appear in the pending termination of parental rights proceeding and show cause why such parent's rights to the child who is the subject of the proceeding should not be terminated. Notice shall be deemed to have been received on the earliest date: (A) Personal service is perfected; (B) Of delivery shown on the return receipt of certified mail or registered mail or proof of delivery by statutory overnight delivery; or (C) Of the last publication.

(b)(1) Whenever a petition to terminate parental rights is filed pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section, the parent whose rights the petitioner is seeking to terminate shall be personally served with a conformed copy of the petition to terminate parental rights and a copy of the court's order setting forth the date upon which such petition shall be considered or, if personal service cannot be perfected, by certified mail or registered mail, return receipt requested, or statutory overnight delivery, one-day service not required, at his or her last known address. If service cannot be made by these methods, such parent shall be given notice by publication once a week for three weeks in the official organ of the county where such petition has been filed and of the county of his or her last known address. In the interest of time, publication may be initiated simultaneously with efforts to perfect service personally, by certified mail or registered mail, or by statutory overnight delivery. The court shall continue to have the inherent authority to determine the sufficiency of service. A parent who receives notification pursuant to this paragraph shall not be a party to the adoption and shall have no obligation to file an answer, but shall have the right to appear in the pending termination of parental rights proceeding and show cause why such parent's rights to the child who is the subject of the proceeding should not be terminated. Notice shall be deemed to have been received on the earliest date:

(A) Personal service is perfected;

(A) Personal service is perfected;

(B) Of delivery shown on the return receipt of certified mail or registered mail or proof of delivery by statutory overnight delivery; or

(B) Of delivery shown on the return receipt of certified mail or registered mail or proof of delivery by statutory overnight delivery; or

(C) Of the last publication.

(C) Of the last publication.

(2) No prior order of court shall be required to publish notice pursuant to this Code section; provided, however, that before publication may be relied upon as a means of service, it shall be averred that, after diligent efforts, service could not be perfected personally, by certified mail, by registered mail, or by statutory overnight delivery.

(2) No prior order of court shall be required to publish notice pursuant to this Code section; provided, however, that before publication may be relied upon as a means of service, it shall be averred that, after diligent efforts, service could not be perfected personally, by certified mail, by registered mail, or by statutory overnight delivery.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-184-1 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-184-1
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-184.1
Status: in_force

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this part, a party who is an individual or a support enforcement agency seeking recognition of a convention support order shall register the order in this state as provided in Part 6 of this article.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this part, a party who is an individual or a support enforcement agency seeking recognition of a convention support order shall register the order in this state as provided in Part 6 of this article.

(b) Notwithstanding Code Sections 19-11-130 and subsection (a) of Code Section 19-11-161 , a request for registration of a convention support order must be accompanied by: (1) A complete text of the support order or an abstract or extract of the support order drawn up by the issuing foreign tribunal, which may be in the form recommended by the Hague Conference on Private International Law; (2) A record stating that the support order is enforceable in the issuing country; (3) If the respondent did not appear and was not represented in the proceedings in the issuing country, a record attesting, as appropriate, either that the respondent had proper notice of the proceedings and an opportunity to be heard or that the respondent had proper notice of the support order and an opportunity to be heard in a challenge or appeal on fact or law before a tribunal; (4) A record showing the amount of arrears, if any, and the date the amount was calculated; (5) A record showing a requirement for automatic adjustment of the amount of support, if any, and the information necessary to make the appropriate calculations; and (6) If necessary, a record showing the extent to which the applicant received free legal assistance in the issuing country.

(b) Notwithstanding Code Sections 19-11-130 and subsection (a) of Code Section 19-11-161 , a request for registration of a convention support order must be accompanied by:

(1) A complete text of the support order or an abstract or extract of the support order drawn up by the issuing foreign tribunal, which may be in the form recommended by the Hague Conference on Private International Law;

(1) A complete text of the support order or an abstract or extract of the support order drawn up by the issuing foreign tribunal, which may be in the form recommended by the Hague Conference on Private International Law;

(2) A record stating that the support order is enforceable in the issuing country;

(2) A record stating that the support order is enforceable in the issuing country;

(3) If the respondent did not appear and was not represented in the proceedings in the issuing country, a record attesting, as appropriate, either that the respondent had proper notice of the proceedings and an opportunity to be heard or that the respondent had proper notice of the support order and an opportunity to be heard in a challenge or appeal on fact or law before a tribunal;

(3) If the respondent did not appear and was not represented in the proceedings in the issuing country, a record attesting, as appropriate, either that the respondent had proper notice of the proceedings and an opportunity to be heard or that the respondent had proper notice of the support order and an opportunity to be heard in a challenge or appeal on fact or law before a tribunal;

(4) A record showing the amount of arrears, if any, and the date the amount was calculated;

(4) A record showing the amount of arrears, if any, and the date the amount was calculated;

(5) A record showing a requirement for automatic adjustment of the amount of support, if any, and the information necessary to make the appropriate calculations; and

(5) A record showing a requirement for automatic adjustment of the amount of support, if any, and the information necessary to make the appropriate calculations; and

(6) If necessary, a record showing the extent to which the applicant received free legal assistance in the issuing country.

(6) If necessary, a record showing the extent to which the applicant received free legal assistance in the issuing country.

(c) A request for registration of a convention support order may seek recognition and partial enforcement of the order.

(c) A request for registration of a convention support order may seek recognition and partial enforcement of the order.

(d) A tribunal of Georgia may vacate the registration of a convention support order without the filing of a contest under Code Section 19-11-184.2 only if, acting on its own motion, the tribunal finds that recognition and enforcement of the order would be manifestly incompatible with public policy.

(d) A tribunal of Georgia may vacate the registration of a convention support order without the filing of a contest under Code Section 19-11-184.2 only if, acting on its own motion, the tribunal finds that recognition and enforcement of the order would be manifestly incompatible with public policy.

(e) The tribunal shall promptly notify the parties of the registration or the order vacating the registration of a convention support order.

(e) The tribunal shall promptly notify the parties of the registration or the order vacating the registration of a convention support order.
O.C.G.A. § 19-14-20 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 14 / Section 19-14-20
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-14-20
Status: in_force

(a)(1) The State Children's Trust Fund is created as a separate fund in the state treasury. The director of the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services shall be the trustee of the fund. (2) The state treasurer shall invest the money held in the State Children's Trust Fund in the same manner in which state funds are invested as authorized by the State Depository Board pursuant to Article 3 of Chapter 17 of Title 50. Interest earned by the money held in the trust fund shall be accounted for separately and shall be credited to the trust fund to be disbursed as other moneys in the trust fund.

(a)(1) The State Children's Trust Fund is created as a separate fund in the state treasury. The director of the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services shall be the trustee of the fund.

(a)(1) The State Children's Trust Fund is created as a separate fund in the state treasury. The director of the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services shall be the trustee of the fund.

(2) The state treasurer shall invest the money held in the State Children's Trust Fund in the same manner in which state funds are invested as authorized by the State Depository Board pursuant to Article 3 of Chapter 17 of Title 50. Interest earned by the money held in the trust fund shall be accounted for separately and shall be credited to the trust fund to be disbursed as other moneys in the trust fund.

(2) The state treasurer shall invest the money held in the State Children's Trust Fund in the same manner in which state funds are invested as authorized by the State Depository Board pursuant to Article 3 of Chapter 17 of Title 50. Interest earned by the money held in the trust fund shall be accounted for separately and shall be credited to the trust fund to be disbursed as other moneys in the trust fund.

(b) Under the authority granted and subject to the conditions imposed by Article III, Section IX, Paragraph VI(r) of the Constitution of Georgia , for the period beginning on July 1, 2022, and ending on June 30, 2032, all of the money collected pursuant to Code Sections 15-6-77.4 and 15-9-60 shall be annually appropriated to the State Children's Trust Fund established by subsection (a) of this Code section and such funds shall not lapse as otherwise required by Article III, Section IX, Paragraph IV(c) of the Constitution of Georgia . Each annual appropriation shall be made through the General Appropriations Act and shall include all of the money collected from such sources during the most recently completed fiscal year.

(b) Under the authority granted and subject to the conditions imposed by Article III, Section IX, Paragraph VI(r) of the Constitution of Georgia , for the period beginning on July 1, 2022, and ending on June 30, 2032, all of the money collected pursuant to Code Sections 15-6-77.4 and 15-9-60 shall be annually appropriated to the State Children's Trust Fund established by subsection (a) of this Code section and such funds shall not lapse as otherwise required by Article III, Section IX, Paragraph IV(c) of the Constitution of Georgia . Each annual appropriation shall be made through the General Appropriations Act and shall include all of the money collected from such sources during the most recently completed fiscal year.

(c) The State Children's Trust Fund may accept federal funds granted by Congress or executive order for the purposes of the fund as well as gifts and donations from individuals, private organizations, or foundations. The acceptance and use of federal funds does not commit state funds and does not place an obligation upon the General Assembly to continue the purposes for which the federal funds are made available. All funds received in the manner described in this subsection shall be transmitted to the state treasurer for deposit in the fund to be disbursed as other moneys in such fund.

(c) The State Children's Trust Fund may accept federal funds granted by Congress or executive order for the purposes of the fund as well as gifts and donations from individuals, private organizations, or foundations. The acceptance and use of federal funds does not commit state funds and does not place an obligation upon the General Assembly to continue the purposes for which the federal funds are made available. All funds received in the manner described in this subsection shall be transmitted to the state treasurer for deposit in the fund to be disbursed as other moneys in such fund.

(d) All of the money appropriated to the State Children's Trust Fund pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section shall be dedicated for use and expended by the director of the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services only for the following purposes: (1) To carry out the prevention and community based service programs as provided for in Part 2 of Article 6 of Chapter 5 of Title 49; (2) To carry out the duties relating to mentoring as provided for in Part 3 of Article 6 of Chapter 5 of Title 49; (3) To cooperate with and secure cooperation of every department, agency, or instrumentality in the state government or its political subdivisions in the furtherance of the purposes of this article; (4) To prepare, publish in print or electronically, and disseminate fundamental child related information of a descriptive and analytical nature to all components of the children's service system of this state, including, but not limited to, the juvenile justice system; (5) To serve as a state-wide clearing-house for child related information and research; (6) In coordination and cooperation with all components of the children's service systems of this state, to develop legislative proposals and executive policy proposals reflective of the priorities of the entire child related systems of this state, including, but not limited to, child abuse injury prevention, treatment, and juvenile justice systems; (7) To serve in an advisory capacity to the Governor on issues impacting the children's service systems of this state; (8) To coordinate high visibility child related research projects and studies with a state-wide impact when those studies and projects cross traditional system component lines; (9) To provide for the interaction, communication, and coordination of all components of the children's service systems of this state and to provide assistance in establishing state-wide goals and standards in the system; (10) To provide for the effective coordination and communication between providers of children and youth services, including pediatrics, health, mental health, business and industry, and all components of social services, education, and educational services; (11) To encourage and facilitate the establishment of local commissions or coalitions on children and youth and to facilitate the involvement of communities in providing services for children and youth; (12) To review and develop an integrated state plan for services provided to children and youth in this state through state programs; (13) To provide technical assistance and consultation to local governments, particularly those involved in providing services to children and youth; (14) To facilitate elimination of unnecessary or duplicative efforts, programs, and services; and (15) To do any and all things necessary and proper to enable it to perform wholly and adequately its duties and to exercise the authority granted to it.

(d) All of the money appropriated to the State Children's Trust Fund pursuant to subsection (b) of this Code section shall be dedicated for use and expended by the director of the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services only for the following purposes:

(1) To carry out the prevention and community based service programs as provided for in Part 2 of Article 6 of Chapter 5 of Title 49;

(1) To carry out the prevention and community based service programs as provided for in Part 2 of Article 6 of Chapter 5 of Title 49;

(2) To carry out the duties relating to mentoring as provided for in Part 3 of Article 6 of Chapter 5 of Title 49;

(2) To carry out the duties relating to mentoring as provided for in Part 3 of Article 6 of Chapter 5 of Title 49;

(3) To cooperate with and secure cooperation of every department, agency, or instrumentality in the state government or its political subdivisions in the furtherance of the purposes of this article;

(3) To cooperate with and secure cooperation of every department, agency, or instrumentality in the state government or its political subdivisions in the furtherance of the purposes of this article;

(4) To prepare, publish in print or electronically, and disseminate fundamental child related information of a descriptive and analytical nature to all components of the children's service system of this state, including, but not limited to, the juvenile justice system;

(4) To prepare, publish in print or electronically, and disseminate fundamental child related information of a descriptive and analytical nature to all components of the children's service system of this state, including, but not limited to, the juvenile justice system;

(5) To serve as a state-wide clearing-house for child related information and research;

(5) To serve as a state-wide clearing-house for child related information and research;

(6) In coordination and cooperation with all components of the children's service systems of this state, to develop legislative proposals and executive policy proposals reflective of the priorities of the entire child related systems of this state, including, but not limited to, child abuse injury prevention, treatment, and juvenile justice systems;

(6) In coordination and cooperation with all components of the children's service systems of this state, to develop legislative proposals and executive policy proposals reflective of the priorities of the entire child related systems of this state, including, but not limited to, child abuse injury prevention, treatment, and juvenile justice systems;

(7) To serve in an advisory capacity to the Governor on issues impacting the children's service systems of this state;

(7) To serve in an advisory capacity to the Governor on issues impacting the children's service systems of this state;

(8) To coordinate high visibility child related research projects and studies with a state-wide impact when those studies and projects cross traditional system component lines;

(8) To coordinate high visibility child related research projects and studies with a state-wide impact when those studies and projects cross traditional system component lines;

(9) To provide for the interaction, communication, and coordination of all components of the children's service systems of this state and to provide assistance in establishing state-wide goals and standards in the system;

(9) To provide for the interaction, communication, and coordination of all components of the children's service systems of this state and to provide assistance in establishing state-wide goals and standards in the system;

(10) To provide for the effective coordination and communication between providers of children and youth services, including pediatrics, health, mental health, business and industry, and all components of social services, education, and educational services;

(10) To provide for the effective coordination and communication between providers of children and youth services, including pediatrics, health, mental health, business and industry, and all components of social services, education, and educational services;

(11) To encourage and facilitate the establishment of local commissions or coalitions on children and youth and to facilitate the involvement of communities in providing services for children and youth;

(11) To encourage and facilitate the establishment of local commissions or coalitions on children and youth and to facilitate the involvement of communities in providing services for children and youth;

(12) To review and develop an integrated state plan for services provided to children and youth in this state through state programs;

(12) To review and develop an integrated state plan for services provided to children and youth in this state through state programs;

(13) To provide technical assistance and consultation to local governments, particularly those involved in providing services to children and youth;

(13) To provide technical assistance and consultation to local governments, particularly those involved in providing services to children and youth;

(14) To facilitate elimination of unnecessary or duplicative efforts, programs, and services; and

(14) To facilitate elimination of unnecessary or duplicative efforts, programs, and services; and

(15) To do any and all things necessary and proper to enable it to perform wholly and adequately its duties and to exercise the authority granted to it.

(15) To do any and all things necessary and proper to enable it to perform wholly and adequately its duties and to exercise the authority granted to it.

(e) The director of the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services shall prepare an accounting of the funds expended pursuant to this Code section during the most recently completed fiscal year to be provided to the Office of Planning and Budget, the House Budget and Research Office, and the Senate Budget and Evaluation Office by January 1 of each year.

(e) The director of the Division of Family and Children Services of the Department of Human Services shall prepare an accounting of the funds expended pursuant to this Code section during the most recently completed fiscal year to be provided to the Office of Planning and Budget, the House Budget and Research Office, and the Senate Budget and Evaluation Office by January 1 of each year.
O.C.G.A. § 19-2-4 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 2 / Section 19-2-4
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-2-4
Status: in_force

(a) If a minor child's parents are domiciled in the same county, the domicile of that child shall be that of the parents. If a minor child's parents are divorced, separated, or widowed, or if one parent is not domiciled in the same county as the other parent, the child's domicile shall be that of the custodial parent. The domicile of a minor child born out of wedlock shall be that of the child's mother.

(a) If a minor child's parents are domiciled in the same county, the domicile of that child shall be that of the parents. If a minor child's parents are divorced, separated, or widowed, or if one parent is not domiciled in the same county as the other parent, the child's domicile shall be that of the custodial parent. The domicile of a minor child born out of wedlock shall be that of the child's mother.

(b) Where a child's parents have voluntarily relinquished custody of the child to a third person or have been deprived of custody by court order, the child's domicile shall be that of the person having legal custody of the child. If there is no legal custodian, the child's domicile shall be that of his guardian if the guardian is domiciled in this state. If there is neither a legal custodian nor a guardian, the domicile of the child shall be determined as if he were an adult.

(b) Where a child's parents have voluntarily relinquished custody of the child to a third person or have been deprived of custody by court order, the child's domicile shall be that of the person having legal custody of the child. If there is no legal custodian, the child's domicile shall be that of his guardian if the guardian is domiciled in this state. If there is neither a legal custodian nor a guardian, the domicile of the child shall be determined as if he were an adult.
O.C.G.A. § 19-7-53 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 7 / Section 19-7-53
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-7-53
Status: in_force

Upon motion of any party, any hearing or trial held under this article may be held in closed court without the admittance of any person other than those necessary to the action or proceeding.
O.C.G.A. § 19-9-104 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 19-9-104
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-9-104
Status: in_force

In the event of any conflict between this article and Article 2 of this chapter, the “Georgia Child Custody Intrastate Jurisdiction Act of 1978,” this article shall apply.
O.C.G.A. § 19-9-6 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 19-9-6
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-9-6
Status: in_force

As used in this article, the term:

(1) “ Armed forces ” means the national guard and the reserve components of the armed forces, the United States army, navy, marine corps, coast guard, and air force.

(1) “ Armed forces ” means the national guard and the reserve components of the armed forces, the United States army, navy, marine corps, coast guard, and air force.

(2) “ Deploy ” or “ deployment ” means military service in compliance with the military orders received by a member of the armed forces to report for combat operations, contingency operations, peacekeeping operations, a remote tour of duty, temporary duty, or other such military service for which a parent is required to report unaccompanied by family members. Deployment shall include the period during which a military parent remains subject to deployment orders and remains deployed on account of sickness, wounds, leave, or other lawful cause. Such term shall include mobilization.

(2) “ Deploy ” or “ deployment ” means military service in compliance with the military orders received by a member of the armed forces to report for combat operations, contingency operations, peacekeeping operations, a remote tour of duty, temporary duty, or other such military service for which a parent is required to report unaccompanied by family members. Deployment shall include the period during which a military parent remains subject to deployment orders and remains deployed on account of sickness, wounds, leave, or other lawful cause. Such term shall include mobilization.

(3) “ Deploying parent ” or “ deployed parent ” means a military parent who has been formally notified by military leadership that he or she will deploy or mobilize or who is currently deployed or mobilized.

(3) “ Deploying parent ” or “ deployed parent ” means a military parent who has been formally notified by military leadership that he or she will deploy or mobilize or who is currently deployed or mobilized.

(4) “ Joint custody ” means joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or both joint legal custody and joint physical custody. In making an order for joint custody, the judge may order joint legal custody without ordering joint physical custody.

(4) “ Joint custody ” means joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or both joint legal custody and joint physical custody. In making an order for joint custody, the judge may order joint legal custody without ordering joint physical custody.

(5) “ Joint legal custody ” means both parents have equal rights and responsibilities for major decisions concerning the child, including the child's education, health care, extracurricular activities, and religious training; provided, however, that the judge may designate one parent to have sole power to make certain decisions while both parents retain equal rights and responsibilities for other decisions.

(5) “ Joint legal custody ” means both parents have equal rights and responsibilities for major decisions concerning the child, including the child's education, health care, extracurricular activities, and religious training; provided, however, that the judge may designate one parent to have sole power to make certain decisions while both parents retain equal rights and responsibilities for other decisions.

(6) “ Joint physical custody ” means that physical custody is shared by the parents in such a way as to assure the child of substantially equal time and contact with both parents.

(6) “ Joint physical custody ” means that physical custody is shared by the parents in such a way as to assure the child of substantially equal time and contact with both parents.

(7) “ Military family care plan ” means a plan that is periodically reviewed by a military parent's commander that provides for care of a military parent's child whenever his or her military duties prevent such parent from providing care to his or her child and ensures that a military parent has made adequate and reasonable arrangements to provide for the needs and supervision of his or her child whenever a nondeploying parent is unable or unavailable to provide care in the military parent's absence.

(7) “ Military family care plan ” means a plan that is periodically reviewed by a military parent's commander that provides for care of a military parent's child whenever his or her military duties prevent such parent from providing care to his or her child and ensures that a military parent has made adequate and reasonable arrangements to provide for the needs and supervision of his or her child whenever a nondeploying parent is unable or unavailable to provide care in the military parent's absence.

(8) “ Military parent ” means a member of the armed forces who is a legal parent, adoptive parent, or guardian of a child under the age of 18, whose parental rights are established either by operation of law or the process of legitimation, and who has not had his or her parental rights terminated by a court of competent jurisdiction.

(8) “ Military parent ” means a member of the armed forces who is a legal parent, adoptive parent, or guardian of a child under the age of 18, whose parental rights are established either by operation of law or the process of legitimation, and who has not had his or her parental rights terminated by a court of competent jurisdiction.

(9) “ Mobilization ” or “ mobilize ” means the call-up of the national guard and the reserve components of the armed forces to extended active duty service. Such term shall not include National Guard or Reserves component annual training, inactive duty days, drill weekends, or state active duty performed within the boundaries of this state.

(9) “ Mobilization ” or “ mobilize ” means the call-up of the national guard and the reserve components of the armed forces to extended active duty service. Such term shall not include National Guard or Reserves component annual training, inactive duty days, drill weekends, or state active duty performed within the boundaries of this state.

(10) “ Nondeploying parent ” means: (A) A parent who is not a member of the armed forces; or (B) A military parent who is currently not also a deploying parent.

(10) “ Nondeploying parent ” means:

(A) A parent who is not a member of the armed forces; or

(A) A parent who is not a member of the armed forces; or

(B) A military parent who is currently not also a deploying parent.

(B) A military parent who is currently not also a deploying parent.

(11) “ Sole custody ” means a person, including, but not limited to, a parent, has been awarded permanent custody of a child by a court order. Unless otherwise provided by court order, the person awarded sole custody of a child shall have the rights and responsibilities for major decisions concerning the child, including the child's education, health care, extracurricular activities, and religious training, and the noncustodial parent shall have the right to visitation or parenting time. A person who has not been awarded custody of a child by court order shall not be considered as the sole legal custodian while exercising visitation rights or parenting time.

(11) “ Sole custody ” means a person, including, but not limited to, a parent, has been awarded permanent custody of a child by a court order. Unless otherwise provided by court order, the person awarded sole custody of a child shall have the rights and responsibilities for major decisions concerning the child, including the child's education, health care, extracurricular activities, and religious training, and the noncustodial parent shall have the right to visitation or parenting time. A person who has not been awarded custody of a child by court order shall not be considered as the sole legal custodian while exercising visitation rights or parenting time.

(12) “ State active duty ” means the call-up by a governor for the performance of any military duty while serving within the boundaries of that state.

(12) “ State active duty ” means the call-up by a governor for the performance of any military duty while serving within the boundaries of that state.

(13) “ Temporary duty ” means the assignment of a military parent to a geographic location outside of this state for a limited period of time to accomplish training or to assist in the performance of a military mission.

(13) “ Temporary duty ” means the assignment of a military parent to a geographic location outside of this state for a limited period of time to accomplish training or to assist in the performance of a military mission.
O.C.G.A. § 19-7-3 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 7 / Section 19-7-3
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-7-3
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “ Family member ” means a grandparent, great-grandparent, or sibling. (2) “ Grandparent ” means the parent of a parent of a minor child, the parent of a minor child's parent who has died, and the parent of a minor child's parent whose parental rights have been terminated. (3) “ Great-grandparent ” means the parent of the parent of a parent of a minor child, the parent of the parent of a minor child's parent who has died, and the parent of the parent of a minor child's parent whose parental rights have been terminated. (4) “ Sibling ” means the brother or sister of a parent of a minor child, the brother or sister of a minor child's parent who has died, and the brother or sister of a minor child's parent whose parental rights have been terminated.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) “ Family member ” means a grandparent, great-grandparent, or sibling.

(1) “ Family member ” means a grandparent, great-grandparent, or sibling.

(2) “ Grandparent ” means the parent of a parent of a minor child, the parent of a minor child's parent who has died, and the parent of a minor child's parent whose parental rights have been terminated.

(2) “ Grandparent ” means the parent of a parent of a minor child, the parent of a minor child's parent who has died, and the parent of a minor child's parent whose parental rights have been terminated.

(3) “ Great-grandparent ” means the parent of the parent of a parent of a minor child, the parent of the parent of a minor child's parent who has died, and the parent of the parent of a minor child's parent whose parental rights have been terminated.

(3) “ Great-grandparent ” means the parent of the parent of a parent of a minor child, the parent of the parent of a minor child's parent who has died, and the parent of the parent of a minor child's parent whose parental rights have been terminated.

(4) “ Sibling ” means the brother or sister of a parent of a minor child, the brother or sister of a minor child's parent who has died, and the brother or sister of a minor child's parent whose parental rights have been terminated.

(4) “ Sibling ” means the brother or sister of a parent of a minor child, the brother or sister of a minor child's parent who has died, and the brother or sister of a minor child's parent whose parental rights have been terminated.

(b)(1) Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection: (A) Any grandparent shall have the right to file an original action for visitation rights to a minor child; and (B) Any family member shall have the right to intervene in and seek to obtain visitation rights in any action in which any court in this state shall have before it any question concerning the custody of a minor child, a divorce of the parents or a parent of such minor child, a termination of the parental rights of either parent of such minor child, or visitation rights concerning such minor child or whenever there has been an adoption in which the adopted child has been adopted by the child's blood relative or by a stepparent, notwithstanding the provisions of Code Section 19-8-19 . (2) This subsection shall not authorize an original action when the parents of the minor child are not separated and the child is living with both parents.

(b)(1) Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection: (A) Any grandparent shall have the right to file an original action for visitation rights to a minor child; and (B) Any family member shall have the right to intervene in and seek to obtain visitation rights in any action in which any court in this state shall have before it any question concerning the custody of a minor child, a divorce of the parents or a parent of such minor child, a termination of the parental rights of either parent of such minor child, or visitation rights concerning such minor child or whenever there has been an adoption in which the adopted child has been adopted by the child's blood relative or by a stepparent, notwithstanding the provisions of Code Section 19-8-19 .

(b)(1) Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection:

(A) Any grandparent shall have the right to file an original action for visitation rights to a minor child; and

(A) Any grandparent shall have the right to file an original action for visitation rights to a minor child; and

(B) Any family member shall have the right to intervene in and seek to obtain visitation rights in any action in which any court in this state shall have before it any question concerning the custody of a minor child, a divorce of the parents or a parent of such minor child, a termination of the parental rights of either parent of such minor child, or visitation rights concerning such minor child or whenever there has been an adoption in which the adopted child has been adopted by the child's blood relative or by a stepparent, notwithstanding the provisions of Code Section 19-8-19 .

(B) Any family member shall have the right to intervene in and seek to obtain visitation rights in any action in which any court in this state shall have before it any question concerning the custody of a minor child, a divorce of the parents or a parent of such minor child, a termination of the parental rights of either parent of such minor child, or visitation rights concerning such minor child or whenever there has been an adoption in which the adopted child has been adopted by the child's blood relative or by a stepparent, notwithstanding the provisions of Code Section 19-8-19 .

(2) This subsection shall not authorize an original action when the parents of the minor child are not separated and the child is living with both parents.

(2) This subsection shall not authorize an original action when the parents of the minor child are not separated and the child is living with both parents.

(c)(1) Upon the filing of an original action or upon intervention in an existing proceeding under subsection (b) of this Code section, the court may grant any family member of the child reasonable visitation rights if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the health or welfare of the child would be harmed unless such visitation is granted and if the best interests of the child would be served by such visitation. The mere absence of an opportunity for a child to develop a relationship with a family member shall not be considered as harming the health or welfare of the child when there is no substantial preexisting relationship between the child and such family member. In considering whether the health or welfare of the child would be harmed without such visitation, the court shall consider and may find that harm to the child is reasonably likely to result when, prior to the original action or intervention: (A) The minor child resided with the family member for six months or more; (B) The family member provided financial support for the basic needs of the child for at least one year; (C) There was an established pattern of regular visitation or child care by the family member with the child; or (D) Any other circumstance exists indicating that emotional or physical harm would be reasonably likely to result if such visitation is not granted. The court shall make specific written findings of fact in support of its rulings. (2) An original action requesting visitation rights shall not be filed by any grandparent more than once during any two-year period and shall not be filed during any year in which another custody action has been filed concerning the child. After visitation rights have been granted to any grandparent, the legal custodian, guardian of the person, or parent of the child may petition the court for revocation or amendment of such visitation rights, for good cause shown, which the court, in its discretion, may grant or deny; but such a petition shall not be filed more than once in any two-year period. (3) While a parent's decision regarding family member visitation shall be given deference by the court, the parent's decision shall not be conclusive when failure to provide family member contact would result in emotional harm to the child. A court may presume that a child who is denied any contact with his or her family member or who is not provided some minimal opportunity for contact with his or her family member when there is a preexisting relationship between the child and such family member may suffer emotional injury that is harmful to such child's health. Such presumption shall be a rebuttable presumption. (4) In no case shall the granting of visitation rights to a family member interfere with a child's school or regularly scheduled extracurricular activities. (5) Visitation time awarded to a family member shall not be less than 24 hours in any one-month period; provided, however, that when more than one individual seeks visitation under this Code section, the court shall determine the amount of time to award to each petitioner which shall not be less than 24 hours in any one-month period in the aggregate.

(c)(1) Upon the filing of an original action or upon intervention in an existing proceeding under subsection (b) of this Code section, the court may grant any family member of the child reasonable visitation rights if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the health or welfare of the child would be harmed unless such visitation is granted and if the best interests of the child would be served by such visitation. The mere absence of an opportunity for a child to develop a relationship with a family member shall not be considered as harming the health or welfare of the child when there is no substantial preexisting relationship between the child and such family member. In considering whether the health or welfare of the child would be harmed without such visitation, the court shall consider and may find that harm to the child is reasonably likely to result when, prior to the original action or intervention: (A) The minor child resided with the family member for six months or more; (B) The family member provided financial support for the basic needs of the child for at least one year; (C) There was an established pattern of regular visitation or child care by the family member with the child; or (D) Any other circumstance exists indicating that emotional or physical harm would be reasonably likely to result if such visitation is not granted. The court shall make specific written findings of fact in support of its rulings.

(c)(1) Upon the filing of an original action or upon intervention in an existing proceeding under subsection (b) of this Code section, the court may grant any family member of the child reasonable visitation rights if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the health or welfare of the child would be harmed unless such visitation is granted and if the best interests of the child would be served by such visitation. The mere absence of an opportunity for a child to develop a relationship with a family member shall not be considered as harming the health or welfare of the child when there is no substantial preexisting relationship between the child and such family member. In considering whether the health or welfare of the child would be harmed without such visitation, the court shall consider and may find that harm to the child is reasonably likely to result when, prior to the original action or intervention:

(A) The minor child resided with the family member for six months or more;

(A) The minor child resided with the family member for six months or more;

(B) The family member provided financial support for the basic needs of the child for at least one year;

(B) The family member provided financial support for the basic needs of the child for at least one year;

(C) There was an established pattern of regular visitation or child care by the family member with the child; or

(C) There was an established pattern of regular visitation or child care by the family member with the child; or

(D) Any other circumstance exists indicating that emotional or physical harm would be reasonably likely to result if such visitation is not granted. The court shall make specific written findings of fact in support of its rulings.

(D) Any other circumstance exists indicating that emotional or physical harm would be reasonably likely to result if such visitation is not granted.

The court shall make specific written findings of fact in support of its rulings.

(2) An original action requesting visitation rights shall not be filed by any grandparent more than once during any two-year period and shall not be filed during any year in which another custody action has been filed concerning the child. After visitation rights have been granted to any grandparent, the legal custodian, guardian of the person, or parent of the child may petition the court for revocation or amendment of such visitation rights, for good cause shown, which the court, in its discretion, may grant or deny; but such a petition shall not be filed more than once in any two-year period.

(2) An original action requesting visitation rights shall not be filed by any grandparent more than once during any two-year period and shall not be filed during any year in which another custody action has been filed concerning the child. After visitation rights have been granted to any grandparent, the legal custodian, guardian of the person, or parent of the child may petition the court for revocation or amendment of such visitation rights, for good cause shown, which the court, in its discretion, may grant or deny; but such a petition shall not be filed more than once in any two-year period.

(3) While a parent's decision regarding family member visitation shall be given deference by the court, the parent's decision shall not be conclusive when failure to provide family member contact would result in emotional harm to the child. A court may presume that a child who is denied any contact with his or her family member or who is not provided some minimal opportunity for contact with his or her family member when there is a preexisting relationship between the child and such family member may suffer emotional injury that is harmful to such child's health. Such presumption shall be a rebuttable presumption.

(3) While a parent's decision regarding family member visitation shall be given deference by the court, the parent's decision shall not be conclusive when failure to provide family member contact would result in emotional harm to the child. A court may presume that a child who is denied any contact with his or her family member or who is not provided some minimal opportunity for contact with his or her family member when there is a preexisting relationship between the child and such family member may suffer emotional injury that is harmful to such child's health. Such presumption shall be a rebuttable presumption.

(4) In no case shall the granting of visitation rights to a family member interfere with a child's school or regularly scheduled extracurricular activities.

(4) In no case shall the granting of visitation rights to a family member interfere with a child's school or regularly scheduled extracurricular activities.

(5) Visitation time awarded to a family member shall not be less than 24 hours in any one-month period; provided, however, that when more than one individual seeks visitation under this Code section, the court shall determine the amount of time to award to each petitioner which shall not be less than 24 hours in any one-month period in the aggregate.

(5) Visitation time awarded to a family member shall not be less than 24 hours in any one-month period; provided, however, that when more than one individual seeks visitation under this Code section, the court shall determine the amount of time to award to each petitioner which shall not be less than 24 hours in any one-month period in the aggregate.

(d)(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (b) and (c) of this Code section, if one of the parents of a minor child dies, is incapacitated, or is incarcerated, the court may award the parent of the deceased, incapacitated, or incarcerated parent of such minor child reasonable visitation to such child during his or her minority if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the health or welfare of the child would be harmed unless such visitation is granted and if the best interests of the child would be served by such visitation. The mere absence of an opportunity for a child to develop a relationship with a grandparent shall not be considered as harming the health or welfare of the child when there is no substantial preexisting relationship between the child and such grandparent. The custodial parent's judgment as to the best interests of the child regarding visitation shall be given deference by the court but shall not be conclusive. In considering whether the health or welfare of the child would be harmed without such visitation, the court shall consider and may find that harm to the child is reasonably likely to result when, prior to the death, incapacitation, or incarceration of the child's parent: (A) The minor child resided with the grandparent for six months or more; (B) The grandparent provided financial support for the basic needs of the child for at least one year; (C) There was an established pattern of regular visitation or child care by the grandparent with the child; or (D) Any other circumstance exists indicating that emotional or physical harm would be reasonably likely to result if such visitation is not granted. The court shall make specific written findings of fact in support of its rulings. (2) While a custodial parent's decision regarding grandparent visitation shall be given deference by the court, the parent's decision shall not be conclusive when failure to provide grandparent contact would result in emotional harm to the child. A court may presume that a child who is denied any contact with his or her grandparent or who is not provided some minimal opportunity for contact with his or her grandparent when there is a preexisting relationship between the child and such grandparent may suffer emotional injury that is harmful to such child's health. Such presumption shall be a rebuttable presumption.

(d)(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (b) and (c) of this Code section, if one of the parents of a minor child dies, is incapacitated, or is incarcerated, the court may award the parent of the deceased, incapacitated, or incarcerated parent of such minor child reasonable visitation to such child during his or her minority if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the health or welfare of the child would be harmed unless such visitation is granted and if the best interests of the child would be served by such visitation. The mere absence of an opportunity for a child to develop a relationship with a grandparent shall not be considered as harming the health or welfare of the child when there is no substantial preexisting relationship between the child and such grandparent. The custodial parent's judgment as to the best interests of the child regarding visitation shall be given deference by the court but shall not be conclusive. In considering whether the health or welfare of the child would be harmed without such visitation, the court shall consider and may find that harm to the child is reasonably likely to result when, prior to the death, incapacitation, or incarceration of the child's parent: (A) The minor child resided with the grandparent for six months or more; (B) The grandparent provided financial support for the basic needs of the child for at least one year; (C) There was an established pattern of regular visitation or child care by the grandparent with the child; or (D) Any other circumstance exists indicating that emotional or physical harm would be reasonably likely to result if such visitation is not granted. The court shall make specific written findings of fact in support of its rulings.

(d)(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (b) and (c) of this Code section, if one of the parents of a minor child dies, is incapacitated, or is incarcerated, the court may award the parent of the deceased, incapacitated, or incarcerated parent of such minor child reasonable visitation to such child during his or her minority if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the health or welfare of the child would be harmed unless such visitation is granted and if the best interests of the child would be served by such visitation. The mere absence of an opportunity for a child to develop a relationship with a grandparent shall not be considered as harming the health or welfare of the child when there is no substantial preexisting relationship between the child and such grandparent. The custodial parent's judgment as to the best interests of the child regarding visitation shall be given deference by the court but shall not be conclusive. In considering whether the health or welfare of the child would be harmed without such visitation, the court shall consider and may find that harm to the child is reasonably likely to result when, prior to the death, incapacitation, or incarceration of the child's parent:

(A) The minor child resided with the grandparent for six months or more;

(A) The minor child resided with the grandparent for six months or more;

(B) The grandparent provided financial support for the basic needs of the child for at least one year;

(B) The grandparent provided financial support for the basic needs of the child for at least one year;

(C) There was an established pattern of regular visitation or child care by the grandparent with the child; or

(C) There was an established pattern of regular visitation or child care by the grandparent with the child; or

(D) Any other circumstance exists indicating that emotional or physical harm would be reasonably likely to result if such visitation is not granted.

(D) Any other circumstance exists indicating that emotional or physical harm would be reasonably likely to result if such visitation is not granted.

The court shall make specific written findings of fact in support of its rulings.

(2) While a custodial parent's decision regarding grandparent visitation shall be given deference by the court, the parent's decision shall not be conclusive when failure to provide grandparent contact would result in emotional harm to the child. A court may presume that a child who is denied any contact with his or her grandparent or who is not provided some minimal opportunity for contact with his or her grandparent when there is a preexisting relationship between the child and such grandparent may suffer emotional injury that is harmful to such child's health. Such presumption shall be a rebuttable presumption.

(2) While a custodial parent's decision regarding grandparent visitation shall be given deference by the court, the parent's decision shall not be conclusive when failure to provide grandparent contact would result in emotional harm to the child. A court may presume that a child who is denied any contact with his or her grandparent or who is not provided some minimal opportunity for contact with his or her grandparent when there is a preexisting relationship between the child and such grandparent may suffer emotional injury that is harmful to such child's health. Such presumption shall be a rebuttable presumption.

(e) If the court finds that the family member can bear the cost without unreasonable financial hardship, the court, at the sole expense of the petitioning family member, may: (1) Appoint a guardian ad litem for the minor child; and (2) Assign the issue of visitation rights of a family member for mediation.

(e) If the court finds that the family member can bear the cost without unreasonable financial hardship, the court, at the sole expense of the petitioning family member, may:

(1) Appoint a guardian ad litem for the minor child; and

(1) Appoint a guardian ad litem for the minor child; and

(2) Assign the issue of visitation rights of a family member for mediation.

(2) Assign the issue of visitation rights of a family member for mediation.

(f) In the event that the court does not order mediation or upon failure of the parties to reach an agreement through mediation, the court shall fix a time for the hearing of the issue of visitation rights of the family member.

(f) In the event that the court does not order mediation or upon failure of the parties to reach an agreement through mediation, the court shall fix a time for the hearing of the issue of visitation rights of the family member.

(g) Whether or not visitation is awarded to a family member, the court may direct a custodial parent, by court order, to notify such family member of every performance of the minor child to which the public is admitted, including, but not limited to, musical concerts, graduations, recitals, and sporting events or games.

(g) Whether or not visitation is awarded to a family member, the court may direct a custodial parent, by court order, to notify such family member of every performance of the minor child to which the public is admitted, including, but not limited to, musical concerts, graduations, recitals, and sporting events or games.

(h) When more than one family member files an action pursuant to this Code section, the court shall determine the priority of such actions.

(h) When more than one family member files an action pursuant to this Code section, the court shall determine the priority of such actions.
O.C.G.A. § 19-8-28 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 8 / Section 19-8-28
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-8-28
Status: in_force

When a child is an orphan, the petitioner shall not be required to have a guardian appointed for such child in order for a guardian to execute a surrender of rights. Such child shall be adoptable without a surrender of rights.
O.C.G.A. § 19-9-85 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 19-9-85
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-9-85
Status: in_force

(a) A child custody determination issued by a court of another state may be registered in this state, with or without a simultaneous request for enforcement, by sending to the superior court in the appropriate venue in this state: (1) A letter or other document requesting registration; (2) Two copies, including one certified copy, of the determination sought to be registered, and a statement under penalty of perjury that to the best of the knowledge and belief of the person seeking registration the order has not been modified; and (3) Except as otherwise provided in Code Section 19-9-69 , the name and address of the person seeking registration and any parent or person acting as a parent who has been awarded custody or visitation in the child custody determination sought to be registered.

(a) A child custody determination issued by a court of another state may be registered in this state, with or without a simultaneous request for enforcement, by sending to the superior court in the appropriate venue in this state:

(1) A letter or other document requesting registration;

(1) A letter or other document requesting registration;

(2) Two copies, including one certified copy, of the determination sought to be registered, and a statement under penalty of perjury that to the best of the knowledge and belief of the person seeking registration the order has not been modified; and

(2) Two copies, including one certified copy, of the determination sought to be registered, and a statement under penalty of perjury that to the best of the knowledge and belief of the person seeking registration the order has not been modified; and

(3) Except as otherwise provided in Code Section 19-9-69 , the name and address of the person seeking registration and any parent or person acting as a parent who has been awarded custody or visitation in the child custody determination sought to be registered.

(3) Except as otherwise provided in Code Section 19-9-69 , the name and address of the person seeking registration and any parent or person acting as a parent who has been awarded custody or visitation in the child custody determination sought to be registered.

(b) On receipt of the documents required by subsection (a) of this Code section, the registering court shall: (1) Cause the determination to be filed as a foreign judgment, together with one copy of any accompanying documents and information, regardless of their form; and (2) Serve notice upon the persons named pursuant to paragraph (3) of subsection (a) of this Code section and provide them with an opportunity to contest the registration in accordance with this Code section.

(b) On receipt of the documents required by subsection (a) of this Code section, the registering court shall:

(1) Cause the determination to be filed as a foreign judgment, together with one copy of any accompanying documents and information, regardless of their form; and

(1) Cause the determination to be filed as a foreign judgment, together with one copy of any accompanying documents and information, regardless of their form; and

(2) Serve notice upon the persons named pursuant to paragraph (3) of subsection (a) of this Code section and provide them with an opportunity to contest the registration in accordance with this Code section.

(2) Serve notice upon the persons named pursuant to paragraph (3) of subsection (a) of this Code section and provide them with an opportunity to contest the registration in accordance with this Code section.

(c) The notice required by paragraph (2) of subsection (b) of this Code section must state that: (1) A registered determination is enforceable as of the date of the registration in the same manner as a determination issued by a court of this state; (2) A hearing to contest the validity of the registered determination must be requested within 20 days after service of notice; and (3) Failure to contest the registration will result in confirmation of the child custody determination and preclude further contest of that determination with respect to any matter that could have been asserted.

(c) The notice required by paragraph (2) of subsection (b) of this Code section must state that:

(1) A registered determination is enforceable as of the date of the registration in the same manner as a determination issued by a court of this state;

(1) A registered determination is enforceable as of the date of the registration in the same manner as a determination issued by a court of this state;

(2) A hearing to contest the validity of the registered determination must be requested within 20 days after service of notice; and

(2) A hearing to contest the validity of the registered determination must be requested within 20 days after service of notice; and

(3) Failure to contest the registration will result in confirmation of the child custody determination and preclude further contest of that determination with respect to any matter that could have been asserted.

(3) Failure to contest the registration will result in confirmation of the child custody determination and preclude further contest of that determination with respect to any matter that could have been asserted.

(d) A person seeking to contest the validity of a registered order must request a hearing within 20 days after service of the notice. At that hearing, the court shall confirm the registered order unless the person contesting registration establishes that: (1) The issuing court did not have jurisdiction under Part 2 of this article; (2) The child custody determination sought to be registered has been vacated, stayed, or modified by a court having jurisdiction to do so under Part 2 of this article; or (3) The person contesting registration was entitled to notice, but notice was not given in accordance with the standards of Code Section 19-9-47 in the proceedings before the court that issued the order for which registration is sought.

(d) A person seeking to contest the validity of a registered order must request a hearing within 20 days after service of the notice. At that hearing, the court shall confirm the registered order unless the person contesting registration establishes that:

(1) The issuing court did not have jurisdiction under Part 2 of this article;

(1) The issuing court did not have jurisdiction under Part 2 of this article;

(2) The child custody determination sought to be registered has been vacated, stayed, or modified by a court having jurisdiction to do so under Part 2 of this article; or

(2) The child custody determination sought to be registered has been vacated, stayed, or modified by a court having jurisdiction to do so under Part 2 of this article; or

(3) The person contesting registration was entitled to notice, but notice was not given in accordance with the standards of Code Section 19-9-47 in the proceedings before the court that issued the order for which registration is sought.

(3) The person contesting registration was entitled to notice, but notice was not given in accordance with the standards of Code Section 19-9-47 in the proceedings before the court that issued the order for which registration is sought.

(e) If a timely request for a hearing to contest the validity of the registration is not made, the registration is confirmed as a matter of law, and the person requesting registration and all persons served must be notified of the confirmation.

(e) If a timely request for a hearing to contest the validity of the registration is not made, the registration is confirmed as a matter of law, and the person requesting registration and all persons served must be notified of the confirmation.

(f) Confirmation of a registered order, whether by operation of law or after notice and hearing, precludes further contest of the order with respect to any matter that could have been asserted at the time of registration.

(f) Confirmation of a registered order, whether by operation of law or after notice and hearing, precludes further contest of the order with respect to any matter that could have been asserted at the time of registration.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-129 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-129
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-129
Status: in_force

(a) The Department of Human Services is the state information agency under this article.

(a) The Department of Human Services is the state information agency under this article.

(b) The state information agency shall: (1) Compile and maintain a current list, including addresses, of the tribunals in this state which have jurisdiction under this article and any support enforcement agencies in this state and transmit a copy to the state information agency of every other state; (2) Maintain a register of names and addresses of tribunals and support enforcement agencies received from other states; (3) Forward to the appropriate tribunal in the county in Georgia in which the obligee who is an individual or the obligor resides, or in which the obligor's property is believed to be located, all documents concerning a proceeding under this article received from another state or a foreign country; and (4) Obtain information concerning the location of the obligor and the obligor's property within this state not exempt from execution, by such means as postal verification and federal or state locator services, examination of telephone directories, requests for the obligor's address from employers, and examination of governmental records, including, to the extent not prohibited by other law, those relating to real property, vital statistics, law enforcement, taxation, motor vehicles, drivers' licenses, and social security.

(b) The state information agency shall:

(1) Compile and maintain a current list, including addresses, of the tribunals in this state which have jurisdiction under this article and any support enforcement agencies in this state and transmit a copy to the state information agency of every other state;

(1) Compile and maintain a current list, including addresses, of the tribunals in this state which have jurisdiction under this article and any support enforcement agencies in this state and transmit a copy to the state information agency of every other state;

(2) Maintain a register of names and addresses of tribunals and support enforcement agencies received from other states;

(2) Maintain a register of names and addresses of tribunals and support enforcement agencies received from other states;

(3) Forward to the appropriate tribunal in the county in Georgia in which the obligee who is an individual or the obligor resides, or in which the obligor's property is believed to be located, all documents concerning a proceeding under this article received from another state or a foreign country; and

(3) Forward to the appropriate tribunal in the county in Georgia in which the obligee who is an individual or the obligor resides, or in which the obligor's property is believed to be located, all documents concerning a proceeding under this article received from another state or a foreign country; and

(4) Obtain information concerning the location of the obligor and the obligor's property within this state not exempt from execution, by such means as postal verification and federal or state locator services, examination of telephone directories, requests for the obligor's address from employers, and examination of governmental records, including, to the extent not prohibited by other law, those relating to real property, vital statistics, law enforcement, taxation, motor vehicles, drivers' licenses, and social security.

(4) Obtain information concerning the location of the obligor and the obligor's property within this state not exempt from execution, by such means as postal verification and federal or state locator services, examination of telephone directories, requests for the obligor's address from employers, and examination of governmental records, including, to the extent not prohibited by other law, those relating to real property, vital statistics, law enforcement, taxation, motor vehicles, drivers' licenses, and social security.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-42 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-42
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-42
Status: in_force

As used in this article, the term:

(1) “Certification” means certification in accordance with the laws of the certifying state.

(1) “Certification” means certification in accordance with the laws of the certifying state.

(2) “Court” means the superior court of this state and, when the context requires, means the court of any other state as defined in a substantially similar reciprocal law.

(2) “Court” means the superior court of this state and, when the context requires, means the court of any other state as defined in a substantially similar reciprocal law.

(3) “Initiating state” means any state in which a proceeding pursuant to this article or a substantially similar reciprocal law is commenced.

(3) “Initiating state” means any state in which a proceeding pursuant to this article or a substantially similar reciprocal law is commenced.

(4) “Law” includes both common law and statute law.

(4) “Law” includes both common law and statute law.

(5) “Obligee” means any person to whom a duty of support is owed.

(5) “Obligee” means any person to whom a duty of support is owed.

(6) “Obligor” means any person owing a duty of support.

(6) “Obligor” means any person owing a duty of support.

(7) “Register” means the entry of an order by a superior court of this state making a foreign support order a support order of this state.

(7) “Register” means the entry of an order by a superior court of this state making a foreign support order a support order of this state.

(8) “Registering court” means any superior court of this state in which the support order of the rendering state is registered.

(8) “Registering court” means any superior court of this state in which the support order of the rendering state is registered.

(9) “Responding state” means any state in which any proceeding pursuant to the proceeding in the initiating state is or may be commenced.

(9) “Responding state” means any state in which any proceeding pursuant to the proceeding in the initiating state is or may be commenced.

(10) “State” includes: (A) The District of Columbia and any state, territory, or possession of the United States or any foreign jurisdiction in which this article or a substantially similar reciprocal law has been enacted; and (B) Any province or territory of the Dominion of Canada declared to be a reciprocating state by the Attorney General pursuant to Code Section 19-11-44 .

(10) “State” includes:

(A) The District of Columbia and any state, territory, or possession of the United States or any foreign jurisdiction in which this article or a substantially similar reciprocal law has been enacted; and

(A) The District of Columbia and any state, territory, or possession of the United States or any foreign jurisdiction in which this article or a substantially similar reciprocal law has been enacted; and

(B) Any province or territory of the Dominion of Canada declared to be a reciprocating state by the Attorney General pursuant to Code Section 19-11-44 .

(B) Any province or territory of the Dominion of Canada declared to be a reciprocating state by the Attorney General pursuant to Code Section 19-11-44 .

(11) “Support order” means any judgment, decree, or order of support, whether temporary or final and whether subject to modification, revocation, or remission, regardless of the kind of action in which it is entered, provided that custody, visitation rights, property settlement, and all matters other than support are specifically excluded from enforcement under this article.

(11) “Support order” means any judgment, decree, or order of support, whether temporary or final and whether subject to modification, revocation, or remission, regardless of the kind of action in which it is entered, provided that custody, visitation rights, property settlement, and all matters other than support are specifically excluded from enforcement under this article.
O.C.G.A. § 19-7-50 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 7 / Section 19-7-50
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-7-50
Status: in_force

The court may order reasonable fees of counsel, experts, and the child's guardian ad litem and other costs of the action and pretrial proceedings, including blood and other tests, to be paid by the parties in proportions and at times determined by the court.
O.C.G.A. § 19-6-18 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 6 / Section 19-6-18
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-6-18
Status: in_force

(a) The judgment of a court providing permanent alimony for the support of a wife or child or children, or both, rendered prior to July 1, 1977, shall be subject to revision upon petition filed by either the husband or the wife showing a change in the income and financial status of the husband. The petition shall be filed and returnable under the same rules of procedure applicable to divorce proceedings. The petition shall be filed in the proper venue provided by law in civil cases. No petition may be filed by the wife under this Code section within a period of two years from the date of the filing of a previous petition by the wife under this Code section. No petition may be filed by the husband under this Code section within a period of two years from the date of the filing of a previous petition by the husband under this Code section. After hearing both parties and the evidence, the jury, or the judge where a jury is not demanded, may modify and revise the previous judgment so as to provide for the wife or child or children, or both, in accordance with the changed income and financial status of the husband, if such a change in the income and financial status of the husband is satisfactorily proved so as to warrant the modification and revision. In the hearing upon a petition filed as provided in this Code section, testimony may be given and evidence introduced relative to the income and financial status of the wife.

(a) The judgment of a court providing permanent alimony for the support of a wife or child or children, or both, rendered prior to July 1, 1977, shall be subject to revision upon petition filed by either the husband or the wife showing a change in the income and financial status of the husband. The petition shall be filed and returnable under the same rules of procedure applicable to divorce proceedings. The petition shall be filed in the proper venue provided by law in civil cases. No petition may be filed by the wife under this Code section within a period of two years from the date of the filing of a previous petition by the wife under this Code section. No petition may be filed by the husband under this Code section within a period of two years from the date of the filing of a previous petition by the husband under this Code section. After hearing both parties and the evidence, the jury, or the judge where a jury is not demanded, may modify and revise the previous judgment so as to provide for the wife or child or children, or both, in accordance with the changed income and financial status of the husband, if such a change in the income and financial status of the husband is satisfactorily proved so as to warrant the modification and revision. In the hearing upon a petition filed as provided in this Code section, testimony may be given and evidence introduced relative to the income and financial status of the wife.

(b) Upon an application as authorized in subsection (a) of this Code section, the merits of whether the wife, or child or children, or both, are entitled to alimony and support are not in issue, but only whether there has been such a substantial change in the income and financial status of the husband as to warrant either a downward or upward revision and modification of the permanent alimony judgment.

(b) Upon an application as authorized in subsection (a) of this Code section, the merits of whether the wife, or child or children, or both, are entitled to alimony and support are not in issue, but only whether there has been such a substantial change in the income and financial status of the husband as to warrant either a downward or upward revision and modification of the permanent alimony judgment.

(c) An application authorized in subsection (a) of this Code section can be filed only where the husband has been ordered by the final judgment in an alimony or divorce and alimony action to pay permanent alimony in weekly, monthly, annual, or similar periodic payments, and not where the wife, or child or children, or both, have been given an award from the corpus of the husband's estate in lieu of such periodic payment.

(c) An application authorized in subsection (a) of this Code section can be filed only where the husband has been ordered by the final judgment in an alimony or divorce and alimony action to pay permanent alimony in weekly, monthly, annual, or similar periodic payments, and not where the wife, or child or children, or both, have been given an award from the corpus of the husband's estate in lieu of such periodic payment.

(d) Where an application authorized in subsection (a) of this Code section is filed by the husband, the court may require the husband to pay reasonable expenses of litigation as may be incurred by the wife, either for herself or the child or children, or both, in defense thereof.

(d) Where an application authorized in subsection (a) of this Code section is filed by the husband, the court may require the husband to pay reasonable expenses of litigation as may be incurred by the wife, either for herself or the child or children, or both, in defense thereof.
O.C.G.A. § 19-6-52 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 6 / Section 19-6-52
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-6-52
Status: in_force

(a) The commission shall hold meetings at the call of the chairperson or as called by the Governor. Meetings shall be open to the public.

(a) The commission shall hold meetings at the call of the chairperson or as called by the Governor. Meetings shall be open to the public.

(b) A quorum for transacting business shall be a majority of the members of the commission.

(b) A quorum for transacting business shall be a majority of the members of the commission.

(c) Any legislative members of the commission shall receive the allowances provided for in Code Section 28-1-8 . Citizen members shall receive a daily expense allowance in the amount specified in subsection (b) of Code Section 45-7-21 as well as the mileage or transportation allowance authorized for state employees. Members of the commission who are state officials, other than legislative members, or state employees shall receive no compensation for their services on the commission, but they shall be reimbursed for expenses incurred by them in the performance of their duties as members of the commission in the same manner as they are reimbursed for expenses in their capacities as state officials or state employees. The funds necessary for the reimbursement of the expenses of state officials, other than legislative members, and state employees shall come from funds appropriated to or otherwise available to their respective departments. All other funds necessary to carry out the provisions of this article shall come from funds appropriated to the House of Representatives and the Senate.

(c) Any legislative members of the commission shall receive the allowances provided for in Code Section 28-1-8 . Citizen members shall receive a daily expense allowance in the amount specified in subsection (b) of Code Section 45-7-21 as well as the mileage or transportation allowance authorized for state employees. Members of the commission who are state officials, other than legislative members, or state employees shall receive no compensation for their services on the commission, but they shall be reimbursed for expenses incurred by them in the performance of their duties as members of the commission in the same manner as they are reimbursed for expenses in their capacities as state officials or state employees. The funds necessary for the reimbursement of the expenses of state officials, other than legislative members, and state employees shall come from funds appropriated to or otherwise available to their respective departments. All other funds necessary to carry out the provisions of this article shall come from funds appropriated to the House of Representatives and the Senate.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-183 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-183
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-183
Status: in_force

(a) In a support proceeding under this part, the Department of Human Services shall: (1) Transmit and receive applications; and (2) Initiate or facilitate the institution of a proceeding regarding an application in a tribunal of Georgia.

(a) In a support proceeding under this part, the Department of Human Services shall:

(1) Transmit and receive applications; and

(1) Transmit and receive applications; and

(2) Initiate or facilitate the institution of a proceeding regarding an application in a tribunal of Georgia.

(2) Initiate or facilitate the institution of a proceeding regarding an application in a tribunal of Georgia.

(b) The following support proceedings are available to an obligee under the convention: (1) Recognition or recognition and enforcement of a foreign support order; (2) Enforcement of a support order issued or recognized in Georgia; (3) Establishment of a support order if there is no existing order, including, if necessary, determination of parentage of a child; (4) Establishment of a support order if recognition of a foreign support order is refused under paragraph (2), (4), or (9) of subsection (b) of Code Section 19-11-184.3 ; (5) Modification of a support order of a tribunal of Georgia; and (6) Modification of a support order of a tribunal of another state or a foreign country.

(b) The following support proceedings are available to an obligee under the convention:

(1) Recognition or recognition and enforcement of a foreign support order;

(1) Recognition or recognition and enforcement of a foreign support order;

(2) Enforcement of a support order issued or recognized in Georgia;

(2) Enforcement of a support order issued or recognized in Georgia;

(3) Establishment of a support order if there is no existing order, including, if necessary, determination of parentage of a child;

(3) Establishment of a support order if there is no existing order, including, if necessary, determination of parentage of a child;

(4) Establishment of a support order if recognition of a foreign support order is refused under paragraph (2), (4), or (9) of subsection (b) of Code Section 19-11-184.3 ;

(4) Establishment of a support order if recognition of a foreign support order is refused under paragraph (2), (4), or (9) of subsection (b) of Code Section 19-11-184.3 ;

(5) Modification of a support order of a tribunal of Georgia; and

(5) Modification of a support order of a tribunal of Georgia; and

(6) Modification of a support order of a tribunal of another state or a foreign country.

(6) Modification of a support order of a tribunal of another state or a foreign country.

(c) The following support proceedings are available under the convention to an obligor against which there is an existing support order: (1) Recognition of an order suspending or limiting enforcement of an existing support order of a tribunal of Georgia; (2) Modification of a support order of a tribunal of Georgia; and (3) Modification of a support order of a tribunal of another state or a foreign country.

(c) The following support proceedings are available under the convention to an obligor against which there is an existing support order:

(1) Recognition of an order suspending or limiting enforcement of an existing support order of a tribunal of Georgia;

(1) Recognition of an order suspending or limiting enforcement of an existing support order of a tribunal of Georgia;

(2) Modification of a support order of a tribunal of Georgia; and

(2) Modification of a support order of a tribunal of Georgia; and

(3) Modification of a support order of a tribunal of another state or a foreign country.

(3) Modification of a support order of a tribunal of another state or a foreign country.

(d) A tribunal of Georgia may not require security, bond, or deposit, however described, to guarantee the payment of costs and expenses in proceedings under the convention.

(d) A tribunal of Georgia may not require security, bond, or deposit, however described, to guarantee the payment of costs and expenses in proceedings under the convention.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-119 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-119
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-119
Status: in_force

A tribunal of Georgia exercising personal jurisdiction over a nonresident in a proceeding under this article, under other law of Georgia relating to a support order, or recognizing a foreign support order may receive evidence from outside this state pursuant to Code Section 19-11-135 , communicate with a tribunal outside this state pursuant to Code Section 19-11-136 , and obtain discovery through a tribunal outside this state pursuant to Code Section 19-11-137 . In all other respects, Parts 3 through 6 of this article do not apply and the tribunal shall apply the procedural and substantive law of Georgia.
O.C.G.A. § 19-8-6 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 8 / Section 19-8-6
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-8-6
Status: in_force

(a)(1) A child whose legal father and legal mother are both living but are not still married to each other may be adopted by the spouse of either parent only when the other parent voluntarily and in writing surrenders all of his or her rights to the child to that spouse for the purpose of enabling that spouse to adopt the child and the other parent consents to the adoption and, when there is any guardian of that child, each such guardian has voluntarily and in writing surrendered to such spouse all of his or her rights to the child for the purpose of such adoption. (2) A child who has only one parent still living may be adopted by the spouse of that parent only if that parent consents to the adoption and, when there is any guardian of that child, each such guardian has voluntarily and in writing surrendered to such spouse all of his or her rights to the child for the purpose of such adoption.

(a)(1) A child whose legal father and legal mother are both living but are not still married to each other may be adopted by the spouse of either parent only when the other parent voluntarily and in writing surrenders all of his or her rights to the child to that spouse for the purpose of enabling that spouse to adopt the child and the other parent consents to the adoption and, when there is any guardian of that child, each such guardian has voluntarily and in writing surrendered to such spouse all of his or her rights to the child for the purpose of such adoption.

(a)(1) A child whose legal father and legal mother are both living but are not still married to each other may be adopted by the spouse of either parent only when the other parent voluntarily and in writing surrenders all of his or her rights to the child to that spouse for the purpose of enabling that spouse to adopt the child and the other parent consents to the adoption and, when there is any guardian of that child, each such guardian has voluntarily and in writing surrendered to such spouse all of his or her rights to the child for the purpose of such adoption.

(2) A child who has only one parent still living may be adopted by the spouse of that parent only if that parent consents to the adoption and, when there is any guardian of that child, each such guardian has voluntarily and in writing surrendered to such spouse all of his or her rights to the child for the purpose of such adoption.

(2) A child who has only one parent still living may be adopted by the spouse of that parent only if that parent consents to the adoption and, when there is any guardian of that child, each such guardian has voluntarily and in writing surrendered to such spouse all of his or her rights to the child for the purpose of such adoption.

(b) In the case of a child 14 years of age or older, the written consent of the child to his or her adoption shall be given and acknowledged in the presence of the court.

(b) In the case of a child 14 years of age or older, the written consent of the child to his or her adoption shall be given and acknowledged in the presence of the court.

(c) The surrender of rights specified in this Code section shall be executed following the birth of the child under oath and in the presence of a notary public and an adult witness. A copy of the surrender shall be provided to the individual signing the surrender at the time of the execution thereof.

(c) The surrender of rights specified in this Code section shall be executed following the birth of the child under oath and in the presence of a notary public and an adult witness. A copy of the surrender shall be provided to the individual signing the surrender at the time of the execution thereof.

(d) An individual signing a surrender of rights pursuant to this Code section shall have the right to revoke such surrender within four days as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 19-8-9 .

(d) An individual signing a surrender of rights pursuant to this Code section shall have the right to revoke such surrender within four days as provided in subsection (a) of Code Section 19-8-9 .

(e)(1) The surrender of rights by a parent or guardian specified in subsection (a) of this Code section shall meet the requirements of subsection (e) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such surrender shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public and an adult witness. (2) A biological father who is not a legal father of a child may surrender all his rights to the child for purposes of an adoption pursuant to this Code section. Such surrender shall meet the requirements of subsection (d) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such surrender shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public and an adult witness.

(e)(1) The surrender of rights by a parent or guardian specified in subsection (a) of this Code section shall meet the requirements of subsection (e) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such surrender shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public and an adult witness.

(e)(1) The surrender of rights by a parent or guardian specified in subsection (a) of this Code section shall meet the requirements of subsection (e) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such surrender shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public and an adult witness.

(2) A biological father who is not a legal father of a child may surrender all his rights to the child for purposes of an adoption pursuant to this Code section. Such surrender shall meet the requirements of subsection (d) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such surrender shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public and an adult witness.

(2) A biological father who is not a legal father of a child may surrender all his rights to the child for purposes of an adoption pursuant to this Code section. Such surrender shall meet the requirements of subsection (d) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such surrender shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public and an adult witness.

(f) A surrender of rights shall be acknowledged by the individual who surrenders those rights by also signing an acknowledgment meeting the requirements of subsection (g) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such acknowledgment shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public and an adult witness.

(f) A surrender of rights shall be acknowledged by the individual who surrenders those rights by also signing an acknowledgment meeting the requirements of subsection (g) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such acknowledgment shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public and an adult witness.

(g)(1) A legal mother who surrenders her parental rights or consents to the adoption of her child by her spouse pursuant to this Code section shall execute an affidavit meeting the requirements of subsection (h) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such affidavit shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public. (2) A legal mother who is the adoptive mother of the child and who surrenders her parental rights pursuant to this Code section shall execute an affidavit meeting the requirements of subsection (i) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such affidavit shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public.

(g)(1) A legal mother who surrenders her parental rights or consents to the adoption of her child by her spouse pursuant to this Code section shall execute an affidavit meeting the requirements of subsection (h) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such affidavit shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public.

(g)(1) A legal mother who surrenders her parental rights or consents to the adoption of her child by her spouse pursuant to this Code section shall execute an affidavit meeting the requirements of subsection (h) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such affidavit shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public.

(2) A legal mother who is the adoptive mother of the child and who surrenders her parental rights pursuant to this Code section shall execute an affidavit meeting the requirements of subsection (i) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such affidavit shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public.

(2) A legal mother who is the adoptive mother of the child and who surrenders her parental rights pursuant to this Code section shall execute an affidavit meeting the requirements of subsection (i) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such affidavit shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public.

(h) Whenever rights are surrendered pursuant to this Code section, the representative of each petitioner or the representative of the individual signing such surrender shall execute an affidavit meeting the requirements of subsection (k) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such affidavit shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public.

(h) Whenever rights are surrendered pursuant to this Code section, the representative of each petitioner or the representative of the individual signing such surrender shall execute an affidavit meeting the requirements of subsection (k) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such affidavit shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public.

(i) A surrender of rights or consent pursuant to this Code section may be given by any parent or biological father who is not a legal father of the child regardless of whether such individual is a citizen of the United States, a resident of this state, or has reached the age of 18 years. Such surrender or consent given by such individual shall be binding upon him or her as if the individual were in all respects sui juris and shall include a consent to the jurisdiction of the courts of this state for any action filed under this article. Such surrender shall state that such individual agrees to be bound by a decree of adoption.

(i) A surrender of rights or consent pursuant to this Code section may be given by any parent or biological father who is not a legal father of the child regardless of whether such individual is a citizen of the United States, a resident of this state, or has reached the age of 18 years. Such surrender or consent given by such individual shall be binding upon him or her as if the individual were in all respects sui juris and shall include a consent to the jurisdiction of the courts of this state for any action filed under this article. Such surrender shall state that such individual agrees to be bound by a decree of adoption.

(j) The parental consent by the spouse of a stepparent seeking to adopt a child of that spouse and required by subsection (a) of this Code section shall meet the requirements of subsection (l) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such consent shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public.

(j) The parental consent by the spouse of a stepparent seeking to adopt a child of that spouse and required by subsection (a) of this Code section shall meet the requirements of subsection (l) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such consent shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public.

(k) A biological father or a legal father who signs a surrender of rights may execute an affidavit regarding his Native American heritage and military service meeting the requirements of subsection (n) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such affidavit shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public.

(k) A biological father or a legal father who signs a surrender of rights may execute an affidavit regarding his Native American heritage and military service meeting the requirements of subsection (n) of Code Section 19-8-26 . Such affidavit shall be signed under oath and in the presence of a notary public.
O.C.G.A. § 19-9-82 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 19-9-82
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-9-82
Status: in_force

Under this part a court of this state may enforce an order for the return of the child made under the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction as if it were a child custody determination.
O.C.G.A. § 19-6-35 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 6 / Section 19-6-35
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-6-35
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “Child support obligee” means an individual to whom the payment of a child support obligation is owed and includes a custodial parent or caretaker of a child to whom such support obligation is to be paid or a governmental agency entitled by law to enforce a child support obligation on behalf of such parent, caretaker, or child. (2) “Child support obligor” means an individual owing a duty of support to a child or children, whether or not such duty is evinced by a judgment, order, or decree.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) “Child support obligee” means an individual to whom the payment of a child support obligation is owed and includes a custodial parent or caretaker of a child to whom such support obligation is to be paid or a governmental agency entitled by law to enforce a child support obligation on behalf of such parent, caretaker, or child.

(1) “Child support obligee” means an individual to whom the payment of a child support obligation is owed and includes a custodial parent or caretaker of a child to whom such support obligation is to be paid or a governmental agency entitled by law to enforce a child support obligation on behalf of such parent, caretaker, or child.

(2) “Child support obligor” means an individual owing a duty of support to a child or children, whether or not such duty is evinced by a judgment, order, or decree.

(2) “Child support obligor” means an individual owing a duty of support to a child or children, whether or not such duty is evinced by a judgment, order, or decree.

(b) A child support obligee shall be regarded as a creditor, and a child support obligor shall be regarded as a debtor, as defined in Code Section 18-2-1 , for the purposes of attacking as fraudulent a judgment, conveyance, transaction, or other arrangement interfering with the creditor's rights, either at law or in equity.

(b) A child support obligee shall be regarded as a creditor, and a child support obligor shall be regarded as a debtor, as defined in Code Section 18-2-1 , for the purposes of attacking as fraudulent a judgment, conveyance, transaction, or other arrangement interfering with the creditor's rights, either at law or in equity.
O.C.G.A. § 19-7-45 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 7 / Section 19-7-45
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-7-45
Status: in_force

(a) All orders requiring parties to submit to genetic testing shall be issued in conformance with Code Sections 19-7-43 , 19-7-46 , and 19-7-54 . In all cases genetic testing shall be of a type reasonably relied upon by experts in the field of genetic testing and shall be conducted by a laboratory accredited by: (1) The AABB, formerly known as the American Association of Blood Banks, or a successor to its functions; or (2) An accrediting body designated by the Secretary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

(a) All orders requiring parties to submit to genetic testing shall be issued in conformance with Code Sections 19-7-43 , 19-7-46 , and 19-7-54 . In all cases genetic testing shall be of a type reasonably relied upon by experts in the field of genetic testing and shall be conducted by a laboratory accredited by:

(1) The AABB, formerly known as the American Association of Blood Banks, or a successor to its functions; or

(1) The AABB, formerly known as the American Association of Blood Banks, or a successor to its functions; or

(2) An accrediting body designated by the Secretary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

(2) An accrediting body designated by the Secretary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

(b) When an action to determine paternity is initiated prior to the birth of a child, the court shall order that the genetic testing be conducted as soon as medically feasible after the birth.

(b) When an action to determine paternity is initiated prior to the birth of a child, the court shall order that the genetic testing be conducted as soon as medically feasible after the birth.

(c) Genetic testing shall be performed by a duly qualified licensed practicing physician, duly qualified immunologist, or other qualified person. In all cases, however, the court shall determine the number and qualifications of the experts. In all cases the results shall be made known to all parties at interest as soon as available.

(c) Genetic testing shall be performed by a duly qualified licensed practicing physician, duly qualified immunologist, or other qualified person. In all cases, however, the court shall determine the number and qualifications of the experts. In all cases the results shall be made known to all parties at interest as soon as available.

(d) An order issued under this Code section is enforceable by contempt, provided that, if the petitioner refuses to submit to an order for genetic testing, the court may dismiss the action upon motion of the respondent.

(d) An order issued under this Code section is enforceable by contempt, provided that, if the petitioner refuses to submit to an order for genetic testing, the court may dismiss the action upon motion of the respondent.

(e)(1) The Department of Human Services and any court issuing an order with respect to a determination of paternity shall not, insofar as possible, attach the written results from genetic testing to any pleading or court order. (2) The genetic material collected for genetic testing shall be destroyed within a reasonable time, as set forth by rule of the Department of Human Services. (3) The genetic material collected for genetic testing shall not be shared with any other person or entity.

(e)(1) The Department of Human Services and any court issuing an order with respect to a determination of paternity shall not, insofar as possible, attach the written results from genetic testing to any pleading or court order.

(e)(1) The Department of Human Services and any court issuing an order with respect to a determination of paternity shall not, insofar as possible, attach the written results from genetic testing to any pleading or court order.

(2) The genetic material collected for genetic testing shall be destroyed within a reasonable time, as set forth by rule of the Department of Human Services.

(2) The genetic material collected for genetic testing shall be destroyed within a reasonable time, as set forth by rule of the Department of Human Services.

(3) The genetic material collected for genetic testing shall not be shared with any other person or entity.

(3) The genetic material collected for genetic testing shall not be shared with any other person or entity.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-123 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-123
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-123
Status: in_force

(a) Upon the filing of a petition authorized by this article, an initiating tribunal of Georgia shall forward the petition and its accompanying documents: (1) To the responding tribunal or appropriate support enforcement agency in the responding state; or (2) If the identity of the responding tribunal is unknown, to the state information agency of the responding state with a request that they be forwarded to the appropriate tribunal and that receipt be acknowledged.

(a) Upon the filing of a petition authorized by this article, an initiating tribunal of Georgia shall forward the petition and its accompanying documents:

(1) To the responding tribunal or appropriate support enforcement agency in the responding state; or

(1) To the responding tribunal or appropriate support enforcement agency in the responding state; or

(2) If the identity of the responding tribunal is unknown, to the state information agency of the responding state with a request that they be forwarded to the appropriate tribunal and that receipt be acknowledged.

(2) If the identity of the responding tribunal is unknown, to the state information agency of the responding state with a request that they be forwarded to the appropriate tribunal and that receipt be acknowledged.

(b) If requested by the responding tribunal, a tribunal of Georgia shall issue a certificate or other document and make findings required by the law of the responding state. If the responding tribunal is in a foreign country, upon request the tribunal of Georgia shall specify the amount of support sought, convert that amount into the equivalent amount in the foreign currency under applicable official or market exchange rate as publicly reported, and provide any other documents necessary to satisfy the requirements of the responding foreign tribunal.

(b) If requested by the responding tribunal, a tribunal of Georgia shall issue a certificate or other document and make findings required by the law of the responding state. If the responding tribunal is in a foreign country, upon request the tribunal of Georgia shall specify the amount of support sought, convert that amount into the equivalent amount in the foreign currency under applicable official or market exchange rate as publicly reported, and provide any other documents necessary to satisfy the requirements of the responding foreign tribunal.
O.C.G.A. § 19-9-5 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 19-9-5
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-9-5
Status: in_force

(a) In all proceedings under this article between parents, it shall be expressly permissible for the parents of a child to present to the judge an agreement respecting any and all issues concerning custody of the child. As used in this Code section, the term “custody” shall include, without limitation, joint custody as such term is defined in Code Section 19-9-6 . As used in this Code section, the term “custody” shall not include payment of child support.

(a) In all proceedings under this article between parents, it shall be expressly permissible for the parents of a child to present to the judge an agreement respecting any and all issues concerning custody of the child. As used in this Code section, the term “custody” shall include, without limitation, joint custody as such term is defined in Code Section 19-9-6 . As used in this Code section, the term “custody” shall not include payment of child support.

(b) The judge shall ratify the agreement and make such agreement a part of the judge's final judgment in the proceedings unless the judge makes specific written factual findings as a part of the final judgment that under the circumstances of the parents and the child in such agreement that the agreement would not be in the best interests of the child. The judge shall not refuse to ratify such agreement and to make such agreement a part of the final judgment based solely upon the parents' choice to use joint custody as a part of such agreement.

(b) The judge shall ratify the agreement and make such agreement a part of the judge's final judgment in the proceedings unless the judge makes specific written factual findings as a part of the final judgment that under the circumstances of the parents and the child in such agreement that the agreement would not be in the best interests of the child. The judge shall not refuse to ratify such agreement and to make such agreement a part of the final judgment based solely upon the parents' choice to use joint custody as a part of such agreement.

(c) In his or her judgment, the judge may supplement the agreement on issues not covered by such agreement.

(c) In his or her judgment, the judge may supplement the agreement on issues not covered by such agreement.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-14 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-14
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-14
Status: in_force

(a) Whenever a man has been adjudicated by a court of competent jurisdiction or an administrative tribunal as the father of a child born out of wedlock or whenever he has acknowledged paternity under oath in an administrative hearing, in court, or by verified writing, he shall be legally liable for the support of the child in the same manner as he would owe the duty of support if the child were his child born in wedlock. The right of the child born out of wedlock to receive such support is enforceable in a civil action, notwithstanding any other provision of law.

(a) Whenever a man has been adjudicated by a court of competent jurisdiction or an administrative tribunal as the father of a child born out of wedlock or whenever he has acknowledged paternity under oath in an administrative hearing, in court, or by verified writing, he shall be legally liable for the support of the child in the same manner as he would owe the duty of support if the child were his child born in wedlock. The right of the child born out of wedlock to receive such support is enforceable in a civil action, notwithstanding any other provision of law.

(b) For the purposes of this chapter only, the courts of this state shall give full faith and credit to a determination of paternity made by another state whether established through voluntary acknowledgment or through administrative or judicial processes.

(b) For the purposes of this chapter only, the courts of this state shall give full faith and credit to a determination of paternity made by another state whether established through voluntary acknowledgment or through administrative or judicial processes.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-63 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-63
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-63
Status: in_force

If the court of the responding state finds a duty of support, it may order the respondent to furnish support and to pay arrearages due under any existing court order or to furnish reimbursement for reasonable expenses actually incurred in the absence of a court order and may subject the property of the respondent to such order.
O.C.G.A. § 19-9-51 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 19-9-51
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-9-51
Status: in_force

(a) A court of this state may request the appropriate court of another state to: (1) Hold an evidentiary hearing; (2) Order a person to produce or give evidence pursuant to procedures of that state; (3) Order that an evaluation be made with respect to the custody of a child involved in a pending proceeding; (4) Forward to the court of this state a certified copy of the transcript of the record of the hearing, the evidence otherwise presented, and any evaluation prepared in compliance with the request; and (5) Order a party to a child custody proceeding or any person having physical custody of the child to appear in the proceeding with or without the child.

(a) A court of this state may request the appropriate court of another state to:

(1) Hold an evidentiary hearing;

(1) Hold an evidentiary hearing;

(2) Order a person to produce or give evidence pursuant to procedures of that state;

(2) Order a person to produce or give evidence pursuant to procedures of that state;

(3) Order that an evaluation be made with respect to the custody of a child involved in a pending proceeding;

(3) Order that an evaluation be made with respect to the custody of a child involved in a pending proceeding;

(4) Forward to the court of this state a certified copy of the transcript of the record of the hearing, the evidence otherwise presented, and any evaluation prepared in compliance with the request; and

(4) Forward to the court of this state a certified copy of the transcript of the record of the hearing, the evidence otherwise presented, and any evaluation prepared in compliance with the request; and

(5) Order a party to a child custody proceeding or any person having physical custody of the child to appear in the proceeding with or without the child.

(5) Order a party to a child custody proceeding or any person having physical custody of the child to appear in the proceeding with or without the child.

(b) Upon request of a court of another state, a court of this state may hold a hearing or enter an order described in subsection (a) of this Code section.

(b) Upon request of a court of another state, a court of this state may hold a hearing or enter an order described in subsection (a) of this Code section.

(c) Travel and other necessary and reasonable expenses incurred under subsections (a) and (b) of this Code section may be assessed against the parties according to the law of this state.

(c) Travel and other necessary and reasonable expenses incurred under subsections (a) and (b) of this Code section may be assessed against the parties according to the law of this state.

(d) A court of this state shall preserve the pleadings, orders, decrees, records of hearings, evaluations, and other pertinent records with respect to a child custody proceeding until the child attains 18 years of age. Upon appropriate request by a court or law enforcement official of another state, the court shall forward a certified copy of those records.

(d) A court of this state shall preserve the pleadings, orders, decrees, records of hearings, evaluations, and other pertinent records with respect to a child custody proceeding until the child attains 18 years of age. Upon appropriate request by a court or law enforcement official of another state, the court shall forward a certified copy of those records.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-28 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-28
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-28
Status: in_force

(a) The signature of the medical insurance obligee or an agent of the department shall constitute a valid authorization to any insurer to process benefits and to make payments to a health care provider or the medical insurance obligee in accordance with any accident and sickness insurance policy.

(a) The signature of the medical insurance obligee or an agent of the department shall constitute a valid authorization to any insurer to process benefits and to make payments to a health care provider or the medical insurance obligee in accordance with any accident and sickness insurance policy.

(b) An order of medical support shall operate as an assignment to the medical insurance obligee of any right to benefits under a policy of accident and sickness coverage maintained by the medical insurance obligor insofar as dependent coverage is available. The medical insurance obligee shall be subrogated to the rights of the medical insurance obligor to the extent necessary to pursue any claim against the insurer under such policy.

(b) An order of medical support shall operate as an assignment to the medical insurance obligee of any right to benefits under a policy of accident and sickness coverage maintained by the medical insurance obligor insofar as dependent coverage is available. The medical insurance obligee shall be subrogated to the rights of the medical insurance obligor to the extent necessary to pursue any claim against the insurer under such policy.

(c) Within ten business days after termination of a policy of accident and sickness insurance established pursuant to Code Section 19-11-27 , or the termination of employment of the medical insurance obligor, the person or entity providing access to such coverage on behalf of a medical insurance obligor shall mail a termination notice to the person or entity which initially sent a notice of enrollment or National Medical Support Notice and provide the medical insurance obligor's last known address and, if known, the address of the medical insurance obligor's new employer.

(c) Within ten business days after termination of a policy of accident and sickness insurance established pursuant to Code Section 19-11-27 , or the termination of employment of the medical insurance obligor, the person or entity providing access to such coverage on behalf of a medical insurance obligor shall mail a termination notice to the person or entity which initially sent a notice of enrollment or National Medical Support Notice and provide the medical insurance obligor's last known address and, if known, the address of the medical insurance obligor's new employer.

(d) Any person or entity providing access to accident and sickness coverage on behalf of a medical insurance obligor shall be immune from any civil or criminal liability while complying in good faith with the provisions of this Code section and Code Section 19-11-27 .

(d) Any person or entity providing access to accident and sickness coverage on behalf of a medical insurance obligor shall be immune from any civil or criminal liability while complying in good faith with the provisions of this Code section and Code Section 19-11-27 .

(e) Any person or entity acting as a plan fiduciary who makes payment pursuant to this Code section discharges to the extent of any payment the plan's obligation.

(e) Any person or entity acting as a plan fiduciary who makes payment pursuant to this Code section discharges to the extent of any payment the plan's obligation.
O.C.G.A. § 19-5-12 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 5 / Section 19-5-12
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-5-12
Status: in_force

(a) A final judgment of divorce shall be prepared so as to conform to the pleadings and the evidence and may restore a maiden or prior name, if requested. It shall be prepared in form substantially as follows: “FINAL JUDGMENT AND DECREE Upon consideration of this case, upon evidence submitted as provided by law, it is the judgment of the court that a total divorce be granted, that is to say, a divorce a vinculo matrimonii, between the parties to the above stated case upon legal principles. It is considered, ordered, and decreed by the court that the marriage contract heretofore entered into between the parties to this case, from and after this date, be and is set aside and dissolved as fully and effectually as if no such contract had ever been made or entered into. Petitioner and Respondent in the future shall be held and considered as separate and distinct individuals altogether unconnected by any nuptial union or civil contract whatsoever and both shall have the right to remarry. Decree and order entered this __________ day of __________, ___. __________ Judge, Superior Court”

(a) A final judgment of divorce shall be prepared so as to conform to the pleadings and the evidence and may restore a maiden or prior name, if requested. It shall be prepared in form substantially as follows:

“FINAL JUDGMENT AND DECREE

Upon consideration of this case, upon evidence submitted as provided by law, it is the judgment of the court that a total divorce be granted, that is to say, a divorce a vinculo matrimonii, between the parties to the above stated case upon legal principles.

It is considered, ordered, and decreed by the court that the marriage contract heretofore entered into between the parties to this case, from and after this date, be and is set aside and dissolved as fully and effectually as if no such contract had ever been made or entered into.

Petitioner and Respondent in the future shall be held and considered as separate and distinct individuals altogether unconnected by any nuptial union or civil contract whatsoever and both shall have the right to remarry.

Decree and order entered this __________ day of __________, ___.

__________ Judge, Superior Court”

__________

Judge, Superior Court”

(b) When applicable, any one or more of the following clauses shall be included in the form of the judgment: The court restores to (Petitioner/Respondent) his/her prior or maiden name, to wit: __________. The court awards custody of the children of the parties as follows: __________. The court fixes alimony as follows: __________.

(b) When applicable, any one or more of the following clauses shall be included in the form of the judgment:

The court restores to (Petitioner/Respondent) his/her prior or maiden name, to wit:

__________.

The court awards custody of the children of the parties as follows:

__________.

The court fixes alimony as follows:

__________.

(c) In any case which involves the determination of child support, the form of the judgment shall also include all of the information set forth in paragraph (2) of subsection (c) of Code Section 19-6-15 . The final judgment shall have attached to it the child support worksheet containing the calculation of the final award of child support and any schedule that was prepared for the purpose of calculating the amount of child support. The final judgment shall specify a sum certain amount of child support to be paid.

(c) In any case which involves the determination of child support, the form of the judgment shall also include all of the information set forth in paragraph (2) of subsection (c) of Code Section 19-6-15 . The final judgment shall have attached to it the child support worksheet containing the calculation of the final award of child support and any schedule that was prepared for the purpose of calculating the amount of child support. The final judgment shall specify a sum certain amount of child support to be paid.

(d) When applicable, the court shall also include in the final judgment the ability to use income deduction orders as set forth in Code Sections 19-6-30 and 19-6-32 .

(d) When applicable, the court shall also include in the final judgment the ability to use income deduction orders as set forth in Code Sections 19-6-30 and 19-6-32 .
O.C.G.A. § 19-9-24 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 19-9-24
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-9-24
Status: in_force

(a) A physical custodian shall not be allowed to maintain against the legal custodian any action for divorce, alimony, child custody, change of alimony, change of child custody, or change of visitation rights or any application for contempt of court so long as custody of the child is withheld from the legal custodian in violation of the custody order.

(a) A physical custodian shall not be allowed to maintain against the legal custodian any action for divorce, alimony, child custody, change of alimony, change of child custody, or change of visitation rights or any application for contempt of court so long as custody of the child is withheld from the legal custodian in violation of the custody order.

(b) A legal custodian shall not be allowed to maintain any action for divorce, alimony, child custody, change of alimony, change of child custody, or change of visitation rights or any application for contempt of court so long as visitation rights are withheld in violation of the custody order.

(b) A legal custodian shall not be allowed to maintain any action for divorce, alimony, child custody, change of alimony, change of child custody, or change of visitation rights or any application for contempt of court so long as visitation rights are withheld in violation of the custody order.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-141 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-141
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-141
Status: in_force

A tribunal of Georgia authorized to determine parentage of a child may serve as a responding tribunal in a proceeding to determine parentage of a child brought under this article or a law or procedure substantially similar to this article.
O.C.G.A. § 19-5-11 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 5 / Section 19-5-11
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-5-11
Status: in_force

The confessions of a party to acts of adultery or cruel treatment shall be received with great caution; if unsupported by corroborating circumstances and if made with a view to be evidence in the case, such confessions shall not be deemed sufficient to grant a divorce.
O.C.G.A. § 19-13-22 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 13 / Section 19-13-22
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-13-22
Status: in_force

(a) In order to be approved and funded under this article, each shelter shall: (1) Provide a facility which will serve as a shelter to receive or house persons who are family violence victims; (2) Receive the periodic written endorsement of local law enforcement agencies; (3) Receive a minimum of 25 percent of its funding from other sources. Contributions in kind, whether materials, commodities, transportation, office space, other types of facilities, or personal services, may be evaluated and counted as part of the required local funding; and (4) Meet the minimum standards of the council for approving family violence shelters; provided, however, that facilities not receiving state funds shall not be required to be approved.

(a) In order to be approved and funded under this article, each shelter shall:

(1) Provide a facility which will serve as a shelter to receive or house persons who are family violence victims;

(1) Provide a facility which will serve as a shelter to receive or house persons who are family violence victims;

(2) Receive the periodic written endorsement of local law enforcement agencies;

(2) Receive the periodic written endorsement of local law enforcement agencies;

(3) Receive a minimum of 25 percent of its funding from other sources. Contributions in kind, whether materials, commodities, transportation, office space, other types of facilities, or personal services, may be evaluated and counted as part of the required local funding; and

(3) Receive a minimum of 25 percent of its funding from other sources. Contributions in kind, whether materials, commodities, transportation, office space, other types of facilities, or personal services, may be evaluated and counted as part of the required local funding; and

(4) Meet the minimum standards of the council for approving family violence shelters; provided, however, that facilities not receiving state funds shall not be required to be approved.

(4) Meet the minimum standards of the council for approving family violence shelters; provided, however, that facilities not receiving state funds shall not be required to be approved.

(b) The council shall provide procedures whereby local organizations may apply for approval and funding. Any local agency or organization may apply to participate.

(b) The council shall provide procedures whereby local organizations may apply for approval and funding. Any local agency or organization may apply to participate.

(c) Each approved family violence shelter shall be designated to serve as a temporary receiving facility for the admission of persons subject to family violence. Each shelter shall refer such persons and their spouses to any public or private facility, service, or program providing treatment or rehabilitation services, including, but not limited to, the prevention of such violence and the care, treatment, and rehabilitation of persons engaged in or subject to family violence.

(c) Each approved family violence shelter shall be designated to serve as a temporary receiving facility for the admission of persons subject to family violence. Each shelter shall refer such persons and their spouses to any public or private facility, service, or program providing treatment or rehabilitation services, including, but not limited to, the prevention of such violence and the care, treatment, and rehabilitation of persons engaged in or subject to family violence.

(d) Family violence shelters and family violence programs may be established throughout the state as private, local, state, or federal funds are available. Any county or municipality in this state is authorized to make grants of county or municipal funds, respectively, to any family violence center approved as such in accordance with the minimum standards of the council.

(d) Family violence shelters and family violence programs may be established throughout the state as private, local, state, or federal funds are available. Any county or municipality in this state is authorized to make grants of county or municipal funds, respectively, to any family violence center approved as such in accordance with the minimum standards of the council.

(e) The family violence shelters shall establish procedures pursuant to which persons subject to family violence may seek admission to these shelters on a voluntary basis.

(e) The family violence shelters shall establish procedures pursuant to which persons subject to family violence may seek admission to these shelters on a voluntary basis.

(f) Each family violence shelter shall have a board composed of at least three citizens, one of whom shall be a member of a local, municipal, or county law enforcement agency.

(f) Each family violence shelter shall have a board composed of at least three citizens, one of whom shall be a member of a local, municipal, or county law enforcement agency.
O.C.G.A. § 19-9-41 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 19-9-41
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-9-41
Status: in_force

In this article:

(1) “Abandoned” means left without provision for reasonable and necessary care or supervision.

(1) “Abandoned” means left without provision for reasonable and necessary care or supervision.

(2) “Child” means an individual who has not attained 18 years of age.

(2) “Child” means an individual who has not attained 18 years of age.

(3) “Child custody determination” means a judgment, decree, or other order of a court providing for the legal custody, physical custody, or visitation with respect to a child. The term includes a permanent, temporary, initial, and modification order. The term does not include an order relating to child support or other monetary obligations of an individual.

(3) “Child custody determination” means a judgment, decree, or other order of a court providing for the legal custody, physical custody, or visitation with respect to a child. The term includes a permanent, temporary, initial, and modification order. The term does not include an order relating to child support or other monetary obligations of an individual.

(4) “Child custody proceeding” means a proceeding in which legal custody, physical custody, or visitation with respect to a child is an issue. The term includes a proceeding for divorce, separation, neglect, abuse, dependency, guardianship, paternity, termination of parental rights, and protection from family violence, in which the issue may appear. The term does not include a proceeding involving juvenile delinquency, contractual emancipation, or enforcement under Part 3 of this article.

(4) “Child custody proceeding” means a proceeding in which legal custody, physical custody, or visitation with respect to a child is an issue. The term includes a proceeding for divorce, separation, neglect, abuse, dependency, guardianship, paternity, termination of parental rights, and protection from family violence, in which the issue may appear. The term does not include a proceeding involving juvenile delinquency, contractual emancipation, or enforcement under Part 3 of this article.

(5) “Commencement” means the filing of the first pleading in a proceeding.

(5) “Commencement” means the filing of the first pleading in a proceeding.

(6) “Court” means an entity authorized under the law of a state to establish, enforce, or modify a child custody determination.

(6) “Court” means an entity authorized under the law of a state to establish, enforce, or modify a child custody determination.

(7) “Home state” means the state in which a child lived with a parent or a person acting as a parent for at least six consecutive months immediately before the commencement of a child custody proceeding. In the case of a child less than six months of age, the term means the state in which the child lived from birth with any of the persons mentioned. A period of temporary absence of any of the mentioned persons is part of the period.

(7) “Home state” means the state in which a child lived with a parent or a person acting as a parent for at least six consecutive months immediately before the commencement of a child custody proceeding. In the case of a child less than six months of age, the term means the state in which the child lived from birth with any of the persons mentioned. A period of temporary absence of any of the mentioned persons is part of the period.

(8) “Initial determination” means the first child custody determination concerning a particular child.

(8) “Initial determination” means the first child custody determination concerning a particular child.

(9) “Issuing court” means the court that makes a child custody determination for which enforcement is sought under this article.

(9) “Issuing court” means the court that makes a child custody determination for which enforcement is sought under this article.

(10) “Issuing state” means the state in which a child custody determination is made.

(10) “Issuing state” means the state in which a child custody determination is made.

(11) “Modification” means a child custody determination that changes, replaces, supersedes, or is otherwise made after a previous determination concerning the same child, whether or not it is made by the court that made the previous determination.

(11) “Modification” means a child custody determination that changes, replaces, supersedes, or is otherwise made after a previous determination concerning the same child, whether or not it is made by the court that made the previous determination.

(12) “Person” means an individual, corporation, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, limited liability company, association, joint venture, government; governmental subdivision, agency, or instrumentality; public corporation; or any other legal or commercial entity.

(12) “Person” means an individual, corporation, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, limited liability company, association, joint venture, government; governmental subdivision, agency, or instrumentality; public corporation; or any other legal or commercial entity.

(13) “Person acting as a parent” means a person, other than a parent, who: (A) Has physical custody of the child or has had physical custody for a period of six consecutive months, including any temporary absence, within one year immediately before the commencement of a child custody proceeding; and (B) Has been awarded legal custody by a court or claims a right to legal custody under the law of this state.

(13) “Person acting as a parent” means a person, other than a parent, who:

(A) Has physical custody of the child or has had physical custody for a period of six consecutive months, including any temporary absence, within one year immediately before the commencement of a child custody proceeding; and

(A) Has physical custody of the child or has had physical custody for a period of six consecutive months, including any temporary absence, within one year immediately before the commencement of a child custody proceeding; and

(B) Has been awarded legal custody by a court or claims a right to legal custody under the law of this state.

(B) Has been awarded legal custody by a court or claims a right to legal custody under the law of this state.

(14) “Physical custody” means the physical care and supervision of a child.

(14) “Physical custody” means the physical care and supervision of a child.

(15) “State” means a state of the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, or any territory or insular possession subject to the jurisdiction of the United States.

(15) “State” means a state of the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, or any territory or insular possession subject to the jurisdiction of the United States.

(16) “Tribe” means an Indian tribe or band or Alaskan Native village which is recognized by federal law or formally acknowledged by a state.

(16) “Tribe” means an Indian tribe or band or Alaskan Native village which is recognized by federal law or formally acknowledged by a state.

(17) “Warrant” means an order issued by a court authorizing law enforcement officers to take physical custody of a child.

(17) “Warrant” means an order issued by a court authorizing law enforcement officers to take physical custody of a child.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-20 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-20
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-20
Status: in_force

(a) A parent responsible for child support payments may make an assignment of a portion of his wages to the department in order to fulfill his obligations under this article. The employer shall recognize and comply with any wage assignment executed for the purpose of meeting child support obligations and the wage assignment shall be enforceable.

(a) A parent responsible for child support payments may make an assignment of a portion of his wages to the department in order to fulfill his obligations under this article. The employer shall recognize and comply with any wage assignment executed for the purpose of meeting child support obligations and the wage assignment shall be enforceable.

(b) Employers may not terminate the services of an employed parent who executes a wage assignment for child support purposes, solely because of the assignment.

(b) Employers may not terminate the services of an employed parent who executes a wage assignment for child support purposes, solely because of the assignment.

(c) In addition to other remedies provided at law, courts may require wage assignments, if accepted by the employer, as a condition of probation or at such other times as appropriate to ensure the regular availability of support to a dependent child.

(c) In addition to other remedies provided at law, courts may require wage assignments, if accepted by the employer, as a condition of probation or at such other times as appropriate to ensure the regular availability of support to a dependent child.

(d) The payor may collect up to $25.00 against the obligor's income to reimburse the payor for administrative costs for the first income deduction and up to $3.00 for each deduction thereafter.

(d) The payor may collect up to $25.00 against the obligor's income to reimburse the payor for administrative costs for the first income deduction and up to $3.00 for each deduction thereafter.
O.C.G.A. § 19-3-48 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 3 / Section 19-3-48
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-3-48
Status: in_force

If the Governor or any former Governor of this state, any judge, city recorder, magistrate, minister, or other person authorized to perform the marriage ceremony joins together in matrimony any man and woman without a license or the publication of banns or if the person performing the marriage ceremony knows of any disability of either of the parties which would render a contract of marriage improper and illegal, that person shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
O.C.G.A. § 19-9-45 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 19-9-45
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-9-45
Status: in_force

A child custody determination made by a court of this state that had jurisdiction under this article binds all persons who have been served in accordance with the laws of this state or notified in accordance with Code Section 19-9-47 or who have submitted to the jurisdiction of the court, and who have been given an opportunity to be heard. As to those persons, the determination is conclusive as to all decided issues of law and fact except to the extent the determination is modified.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-30-5 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-30-5
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-30.5
Status: in_force

Any financial institution required to submit a report pursuant to Code Section 19-11-30.2 which fails without reasonable cause as determined by the department to comply with such reporting requirements and which, after notification by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery by the department, return receipt requested, of such failure, continues for more than 15 business days after the mailing of such notification to fail to comply without reasonable cause shall be liable for a penalty of $1,000.00. Any financial institution which willfully provides false information in reply to such notification shall be liable for a penalty of $1,000.00.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-10 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-10
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-10
Status: in_force

(a) In cases in which a parent's obligation to support has not already been established by a court order, the department may conduct investigations to determine whether a responsible parent is able to support the dependent child receiving public assistance. The department shall notify the parents of any such planned investigation.

(a) In cases in which a parent's obligation to support has not already been established by a court order, the department may conduct investigations to determine whether a responsible parent is able to support the dependent child receiving public assistance. The department shall notify the parents of any such planned investigation.

(b) The department shall notify the parent of his legal duty to support his child or children and shall request information concerning his financial status in order to determine whether he is financially able to provide support.

(b) The department shall notify the parent of his legal duty to support his child or children and shall request information concerning his financial status in order to determine whether he is financially able to provide support.

(c) The notice shall inform the parent that he may be liable for reimbursement of any support furnished prior to determination of his financial circumstances as well as future support.

(c) The notice shall inform the parent that he may be liable for reimbursement of any support furnished prior to determination of his financial circumstances as well as future support.

(d) Information requested shall be submitted on forms prescribed by the department and shall contain a sworn declaration of income, resources, and other matters bearing on the parent's ability to provide support. The department shall review the forms returned by each obligor and supplement the information provided therein, where required.

(d) Information requested shall be submitted on forms prescribed by the department and shall contain a sworn declaration of income, resources, and other matters bearing on the parent's ability to provide support. The department shall review the forms returned by each obligor and supplement the information provided therein, where required.

(e) Any person who knowingly falsifies the parent's report of his income and resources shall be punished as for false swearing.

(e) Any person who knowingly falsifies the parent's report of his income and resources shall be punished as for false swearing.
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-113 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-113
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-113
Status: in_force

(a) A tribunal in Georgia may exercise jurisdiction to establish a support order if the petition or comparable pleading is filed after a pleading is filed in another state or a foreign country only if: (1) The petition or comparable pleading in Georgia is filed before the expiration of the time allowed in the other state or the foreign country for filing a responsive pleading challenging the exercise of jurisdiction by the other state or the foreign country; (2) The contesting party timely challenges the exercise of jurisdiction in the other state or the foreign country; and (3) If relevant, Georgia is the home state of the child.

(a) A tribunal in Georgia may exercise jurisdiction to establish a support order if the petition or comparable pleading is filed after a pleading is filed in another state or a foreign country only if:

(1) The petition or comparable pleading in Georgia is filed before the expiration of the time allowed in the other state or the foreign country for filing a responsive pleading challenging the exercise of jurisdiction by the other state or the foreign country;

(1) The petition or comparable pleading in Georgia is filed before the expiration of the time allowed in the other state or the foreign country for filing a responsive pleading challenging the exercise of jurisdiction by the other state or the foreign country;

(2) The contesting party timely challenges the exercise of jurisdiction in the other state or the foreign country; and

(2) The contesting party timely challenges the exercise of jurisdiction in the other state or the foreign country; and

(3) If relevant, Georgia is the home state of the child.

(3) If relevant, Georgia is the home state of the child.

(b) A tribunal in Georgia may not exercise jurisdiction to establish a support order if the petition or comparable pleading is filed before a petition or comparable pleading is filed in another state or a foreign country if: (1) The petition or comparable pleading in the other state or foreign country is filed before the expiration of the time allowed in Georgia for filing a responsive pleading challenging the exercise of jurisdiction by Georgia; (2) The contesting party timely challenges the exercise of jurisdiction in Georgia; and (3) If relevant, the other state or foreign country is the home state of the child.

(b) A tribunal in Georgia may not exercise jurisdiction to establish a support order if the petition or comparable pleading is filed before a petition or comparable pleading is filed in another state or a foreign country if:

(1) The petition or comparable pleading in the other state or foreign country is filed before the expiration of the time allowed in Georgia for filing a responsive pleading challenging the exercise of jurisdiction by Georgia;

(1) The petition or comparable pleading in the other state or foreign country is filed before the expiration of the time allowed in Georgia for filing a responsive pleading challenging the exercise of jurisdiction by Georgia;

(2) The contesting party timely challenges the exercise of jurisdiction in Georgia; and

(2) The contesting party timely challenges the exercise of jurisdiction in Georgia; and

(3) If relevant, the other state or foreign country is the home state of the child.

(3) If relevant, the other state or foreign country is the home state of the child.
O.C.G.A. § 19-13-21 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 13 / Section 19-13-21
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-13-21
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be the duty of the council: (1) To establish minimum standards for an approved family violence shelter to enable such shelter to receive state funds; (2) To receive applications for the development and establishment of family violence shelters; (3) To approve or reject each application within 60 days of receipt of the application; (4) To distribute funds to an approved shelter as funds become available; (5) To fund other family violence programs as funds become available, provided that such programs meet standards established by the council; and (6) To evaluate annually each family violence shelter for compliance with the minimum standards.

(a) It shall be the duty of the council:

(1) To establish minimum standards for an approved family violence shelter to enable such shelter to receive state funds;

(1) To establish minimum standards for an approved family violence shelter to enable such shelter to receive state funds;

(2) To receive applications for the development and establishment of family violence shelters;

(2) To receive applications for the development and establishment of family violence shelters;

(3) To approve or reject each application within 60 days of receipt of the application;

(3) To approve or reject each application within 60 days of receipt of the application;

(4) To distribute funds to an approved shelter as funds become available;

(4) To distribute funds to an approved shelter as funds become available;

(5) To fund other family violence programs as funds become available, provided that such programs meet standards established by the council; and

(5) To fund other family violence programs as funds become available, provided that such programs meet standards established by the council; and

(6) To evaluate annually each family violence shelter for compliance with the minimum standards.

(6) To evaluate annually each family violence shelter for compliance with the minimum standards.

(b) Without using designated shelter funds, the council may: (1) Formulate and conduct a research and evaluation program on family violence and cooperate with and assist and participate in programs of other properly qualified agencies, including any agency of the federal government, schools of medicine, hospitals, and clinics, in planning and conducting research on the prevention of family violence and the care, treatment, and rehabilitation of persons engaged in or subject to family violence; (2) Serve as a clearing-house for information relating to family violence; (3) Carry on educational programs on family violence for the benefit of the general public, persons engaged in or subject to family violence, professional persons, or others who care for or may be engaged in the care and treatment of persons engaged in or subject to family violence; and (4) Enlist the assistance of public and voluntary health, education, welfare, and rehabilitation agencies in a concerted effort to prevent family violence and to treat persons engaged in or subject to family violence.

(b) Without using designated shelter funds, the council may:

(1) Formulate and conduct a research and evaluation program on family violence and cooperate with and assist and participate in programs of other properly qualified agencies, including any agency of the federal government, schools of medicine, hospitals, and clinics, in planning and conducting research on the prevention of family violence and the care, treatment, and rehabilitation of persons engaged in or subject to family violence;

(1) Formulate and conduct a research and evaluation program on family violence and cooperate with and assist and participate in programs of other properly qualified agencies, including any agency of the federal government, schools of medicine, hospitals, and clinics, in planning and conducting research on the prevention of family violence and the care, treatment, and rehabilitation of persons engaged in or subject to family violence;

(2) Serve as a clearing-house for information relating to family violence;

(2) Serve as a clearing-house for information relating to family violence;

(3) Carry on educational programs on family violence for the benefit of the general public, persons engaged in or subject to family violence, professional persons, or others who care for or may be engaged in the care and treatment of persons engaged in or subject to family violence; and

(3) Carry on educational programs on family violence for the benefit of the general public, persons engaged in or subject to family violence, professional persons, or others who care for or may be engaged in the care and treatment of persons engaged in or subject to family violence; and

(4) Enlist the assistance of public and voluntary health, education, welfare, and rehabilitation agencies in a concerted effort to prevent family violence and to treat persons engaged in or subject to family violence.

(4) Enlist the assistance of public and voluntary health, education, welfare, and rehabilitation agencies in a concerted effort to prevent family violence and to treat persons engaged in or subject to family violence.
O.C.G.A. § 19-9-40 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 19-9-40
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-9-40
Status: in_force

This article may be cited as the “Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 19-11-78 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 11 / Section 19-11-78
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-11-78
Status: in_force

Code Section 19-11-53 shall apply equally when this state is acting either as a rendering or registering state.
O.C.G.A. § 19-9-49 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 9 / Section 19-9-49
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-9-49
Status: in_force

(a) A court of this state may communicate with a court in another state concerning a proceeding arising under this article and concerning any proceeding or court order in another state relating to family violence. A court of this state may consult any state or national registry of court orders relating to family violence with regard to any party.

(a) A court of this state may communicate with a court in another state concerning a proceeding arising under this article and concerning any proceeding or court order in another state relating to family violence. A court of this state may consult any state or national registry of court orders relating to family violence with regard to any party.

(b) The court may allow the parties to participate in the communication. If the parties are not able to participate in the communication, they must be given the opportunity to present facts and legal arguments before a decision on jurisdiction is made.

(b) The court may allow the parties to participate in the communication. If the parties are not able to participate in the communication, they must be given the opportunity to present facts and legal arguments before a decision on jurisdiction is made.

(c) Communication between courts on schedules, calendars, court records, and similar matters may occur without informing the parties. A record need not be made of the communication.

(c) Communication between courts on schedules, calendars, court records, and similar matters may occur without informing the parties. A record need not be made of the communication.

(d) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (c) of this Code section, a record must be made of any communication under this Code section. The parties must be informed promptly of the communication and granted access to the record.

(d) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (c) of this Code section, a record must be made of any communication under this Code section. The parties must be informed promptly of the communication and granted access to the record.

(e) For the purposes of this Code section, “record” means information that is inscribed on a tangible medium or that is stored in an electronic or other medium and is retrievable in perceivable form.

(e) For the purposes of this Code section, “record” means information that is inscribed on a tangible medium or that is stored in an electronic or other medium and is retrievable in perceivable form.
O.C.G.A. § 19-2-6 — GA Code / Title 19 / Chapter 2 / Section 19-2-6
Georgia Code Title 19. Domestic Relations § 19-2-6
Status: in_force

(a) A person whose domicile for any reason is dependent upon that of another cannot effect a change of his own domicile.

(a) A person whose domicile for any reason is dependent upon that of another cannot effect a change of his own domicile.

(b) A guardian cannot change the domicile of his ward by a change of his own domicile or in any other fashion so as to interfere with the rules of inheritance or succession or otherwise to affect the rights of inheritance of third persons.

(b) A guardian cannot change the domicile of his ward by a change of his own domicile or in any other fashion so as to interfere with the rules of inheritance or succession or otherwise to affect the rights of inheritance of third persons.