reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 6 - ENFORCEMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUPPORT ORDER AFTER REGISTRATION (§§ 19-11-160 — 19-11-175) › Section 19-11-164 - Notification to nonregistering party and obligor's employer

(a)
When a support order or income withholding order issued in another state or a foreign support order is registered, the registering tribunal of Georgia shall notify the nonregistering party. The notice must be accompanied by a copy of the registered order and the documents and relevant information accompanying the order.
(b)
A notice must inform the nonregistering party:
(1)
That a registered order is enforceable as of the date of registration in the same manner as an order issued by a tribunal of Georgia;
(2)
That a hearing to contest the validity or enforcement of the registered order must be requested within 20 days after notice unless the registered order is under Code Section
19-11-184.2
;
(3)
That failure to contest the validity or enforcement of the registered order in a timely manner will result in confirmation of the order and enforcement of the order and the alleged arrearages and precludes further contest of that order with respect to any matter that could have been asserted; and
(4)
Of the amount of any alleged arrearages.
(c)
If the registering party asserts that two or more orders are in effect, a notice must also:
(1)
Identify the two or more orders and the order alleged by the registering party to be the controlling order and the consolidated arrears, if any;
(2)
Notify the nonregistering party of the right to a determination of which is the controlling order;
(3)
State that the procedures provided in subsection (b) of this Code section apply to the determination of which is the controlling order; and
(4)
State that failure to contest the validity or enforcement of the order alleged to be the controlling order in a timely manner may result in confirmation that the order is the controlling order.
(d)
Upon registration of an income withholding order for enforcement, the child support enforcement agency or the registering tribunal shall notify the obligor's employer pursuant to Code Sections
19-6-32
through
19-6-33.1
.
Amended by 2024 Ga. Laws 428,§ 9, eff. 7/1/2024.
Amended by 2017 Ga. Laws 242,§ 1-29, eff. 7/1/2017.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 6 - ENFORCEMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUPPORT ORDER AFTER REGISTRATION (§§ 19-11-160 — 19-11-175) › Section 19-11-165 - Contesting the validity of registered support order by nonregistering party

(a)
A nonregistering party seeking to contest the validity or enforcement of a registered order in Georgia shall request a hearing within the time required by Code Section
19-11-164
. The nonregistering party may seek to vacate the registration, to assert any defense to an allegation of noncompliance with the registered order, or to contest the remedies being sought or the amount of any alleged arrearages pursuant to Code Section
19-11-166
.
(b)
If the nonregistering party fails to contest the validity or enforcement of the registered support order in a timely manner, the order is confirmed by operation of law.
(c)
If a nonregistering party requests a hearing to contest the validity or enforcement of the registered support order, the registering tribunal shall schedule the matter for hearing and give notice to the parties of the date, time, and place of the hearing.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 6 - ENFORCEMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUPPORT ORDER AFTER REGISTRATION (§§ 19-11-160 — 19-11-175) › Section 19-11-166 - Burden of proof in contesting validity of registered support order; stays

(a)
A party contesting the validity or enforcement of a registered support order or seeking to vacate the registration has the burden of proving one or more of the following defenses:
(1)
The issuing tribunal lacked personal jurisdiction over the contesting party;
(2)
The order was obtained by fraud;
(3)
The order has been vacated, suspended, or modified by a later order;
(4)
The issuing tribunal has stayed the order pending appeal;
(5)
There is a defense under the law of Georgia to the remedy sought;
(6)
Full or partial payment has been made;
(7)
The statute of limitation under Code Section
19-11-163
precludes enforcement of some or all of the alleged arrearages; or
(8)
The alleged controlling order is not the controlling order.
(b)
If a party presents evidence establishing a full or partial defense under subsection (a) of this Code section, a tribunal may stay enforcement of a registered support order, continue the proceeding to permit production of additional relevant evidence, and issue temporary or other appropriate orders. Any portion of the registered support order which is not in dispute may be enforced by all remedies available under the laws of Georgia.
(c)
If the contesting party does not establish a defense under subsection (a) of this Code section to the validity or enforcement of a registered support order, the registering tribunal shall issue an order confirming the order.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 6 - ENFORCEMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUPPORT ORDER AFTER REGISTRATION (§§ 19-11-160 — 19-11-175) › Section 19-11-167 - Effect of confirmation

Confirmation of a registered support 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.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 6 - ENFORCEMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUPPORT ORDER AFTER REGISTRATION (§§ 19-11-160 — 19-11-175) › Section 19-11-168 - Petitions for modification

A party or support enforcement agency seeking to modify, or to modify and enforce, a child support order issued in another state shall register that order in Georgia in the same manner provided in Code Sections
19-11-160
through
19-11-167
if the order has not been registered. A petition for modification may be filed at the same time as a request for registration, or later. The pleading must specify the grounds for modification.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 6 - ENFORCEMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUPPORT ORDER AFTER REGISTRATION (§§ 19-11-160 — 19-11-175) › Section 19-11-169 - Enforcement pending modification

A tribunal of Georgia may enforce a child support order of another state registered for purposes of modification in the same manner as if the order had been issued by a tribunal of Georgia, but the registered support order may be modified only if the requirements of Code Section
19-11-170
or
19-11-172
have been met.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 6 - ENFORCEMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUPPORT ORDER AFTER REGISTRATION (§§ 19-11-160 — 19-11-175) › Section 19-11-170 - Requirements for modification; effect on jurisdiction

(a)
If Code Section
19-11-172
does not apply, upon petition a tribunal of Georgia may modify a child support order issued in another state which is registered in Georgia if, after notice and hearing, the tribunal finds that:
(1)
The following requirements are met:
(A)
Neither the child, nor the obligee who is an individual, nor the obligor resides in the issuing state;
(B)
A petitioner who is a nonresident of Georgia seeks modification; and
(C)
The respondent is subject to the personal jurisdiction of the tribunal of Georgia; or
(2)
This state is the residence of the child or a party who is an individual, is subject to the personal jurisdiction of the tribunal of Georgia, and all of the parties who are individuals have filed consents in a record in the issuing tribunal for a tribunal of this state to modify the support order and assume continuing, exclusive jurisdiction.
(b)
Modification of a registered child support order is subject to the same requirements, procedures, and defenses that apply to the modification of an order issued by a tribunal of this state, and the order may be enforced and satisfied in the same manner.
(c)
A tribunal in Georgia may not modify any aspect of a child support order that may not be modified under the law of the issuing state, including the duration of the obligation of support. If two or more tribunals have issued child support orders for the same obligor and same child, the order that controls and must be so recognized under the provisions of Code Section
19-11-116
establishes the aspects of the support order which are nonmodifiable.
(d)
In a proceeding to modify a child support order, the law of the state that is determined to have issued the initial controlling order governs the duration of the obligation of support. The obligor's fulfillment of the duty of support established by that order precludes imposition of a further obligation of support by a tribunal of Georgia.
(e)
On issuance of an order by a tribunal of Georgia modifying a child support order issued in another state, the tribunal of Georgia becomes the tribunal having continuing, exclusive jurisdiction.
(f)
Notwithstanding subsections (a) through (e) of this Code section and subsection (b) of Code Section
19-11-110
, a tribunal of Georgia retains jurisdiction to modify an order issued by a tribunal of Georgia if:
(1)
One party resides in another state; and
(2)
The other party resides outside the United States.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 6 - ENFORCEMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUPPORT ORDER AFTER REGISTRATION (§§ 19-11-160 — 19-11-175) › Section 19-11-171 - Recognition of modification by another tribunal

If a child support order issued by a tribunal in Georgia is modified by a tribunal of another state which assumed jurisdiction pursuant to this article, a tribunal of Georgia:
(1)
May enforce its order that was modified only as to arrears and interest accruing before the modification;
(2)
May provide appropriate relief for violations of its order which occurred before the effective date of the modification; and
(3)
Shall recognize the modifying order of the other state, upon registration, for the purpose of enforcement.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 6 - ENFORCEMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUPPORT ORDER AFTER REGISTRATION (§§ 19-11-160 — 19-11-175) › Section 19-11-172 - Jurisdiction; application of article

(a)
If all of the parties who are individuals reside in Georgia and the child does not reside in the issuing state, a tribunal in Georgia has jurisdiction to enforce and to modify the issuing state's child support order in a proceeding to register that order.
(b)
A tribunal in Georgia exercising jurisdiction as provided in this Code section shall apply the provisions of Parts 1 and 2 of this article and the procedural and substantive law of Georgia to the proceeding for enforcement or modification. Parts 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8 of this article do not apply.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 6 - ENFORCEMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUPPORT ORDER AFTER REGISTRATION (§§ 19-11-160 — 19-11-175) › Section 19-11-173 - Filing requirement for modified order

Within 30 days after issuance of a modified child support order, the party obtaining the modification shall file a certified copy of the order with the issuing tribunal that had continuing, exclusive jurisdiction over the earlier order and in each tribunal in which the party knows the earlier order has been registered. A party who obtains the order and fails to file a certified copy is subject to appropriate sanctions by a tribunal in which the issue of failure to file arises. The failure to file does not affect the validity or enforceability of the modified order of the new tribunal having continuing, exclusive jurisdiction.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 6 - ENFORCEMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUPPORT ORDER AFTER REGISTRATION (§§ 19-11-160 — 19-11-175) › Section 19-11-174 - Jurisdiction to modify child support order

(a)
Except as otherwise provided in Code Section
19-11-184.6
, if a foreign country lacks or refuses to exercise jurisdiction to modify its child support order pursuant to its laws, a tribunal of Georgia may assume jurisdiction to modify the child support order and bind all individuals subject to the personal jurisdiction of the tribunal whether the consent to modification of a child support order otherwise required of the individual pursuant to Code Section
19-11-170
has been given or whether the individual seeking modification is a resident of this state or of the foreign country.
(b)
An order issued by a tribunal of this state modifying a foreign child support order pursuant to this Code section is the controlling order.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 6 - ENFORCEMENT AND MODIFICATION OF SUPPORT ORDER AFTER REGISTRATION (§§ 19-11-160 — 19-11-175) › Section 19-11-175 - Registration of foreign child support order

A party or support enforcement agency seeking to modify, or to modify and enforce, a foreign child support order not under the convention may register that order in this state under Code Sections
19-11-160
through
19-11-167
if the order has not been registered. A petition for modification may be filed at the same time as a request for registration, or at another time. The petition must specify the grounds for modification.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 7 - FOREIGN SUPPORT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS (§§ 19-11-180 — 19-11-184.8) › Section 19-11-180 - Definitions

As used in this part, the term:
(1)
"Application" means a request under the convention by an obligee or obligor, or on behalf of a child, made through a central authority for assistance from another central authority.
(2)
"Central authority" means the entity designated by the United States or a foreign country described in subparagraph (D) of paragraph (5) of Code Section
19-11-101
to perform the functions specified in the convention.
(3)
"Convention support order" means a support order of a tribunal of a foreign country described in subparagraph (D) of paragraph (5) of Code Section
19-11-101
.
(4)
"Direct request" means a petition filed by an individual in a tribunal of Georgia in a proceeding involving an obligee, obligor, or child residing outside the United States.
(5)
"Foreign central authority" means the entity designated by a foreign country described in subparagraph (D) of paragraph (5) of Code Section
19-11-101
to perform the functions specified in the convention.
(6)
"Foreign support agreement":
(A)
Means an agreement for support in a record that:
(i)
Is enforceable as a support order in the country of origin;
(ii)
Has been:
(I)
Formally drawn up or registered as an authentic instrument by a foreign tribunal; or
(II)
Authenticated by, or concluded, registered, or filed with, a foreign tribunal; and
(iii)
May be reviewed and modified by a foreign tribunal; and
(B)
Includes a maintenance arrangement or authentic instrument under the convention.
(7)
"United States central authority" means the secretary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 7 - FOREIGN SUPPORT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS (§§ 19-11-180 — 19-11-184.8) › Section 19-11-181 - Applicability of part

This part applies only to a support proceeding under the convention. In such a proceeding, if a provision of this part is inconsistent with Parts 1 through 6 of this article, this part controls.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 7 - FOREIGN SUPPORT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS (§§ 19-11-180 — 19-11-184.8) › Section 19-11-182 - Department of Human Services recognized as designated agency

The Department of Human Services is recognized as the agency designated by the United States central authority to perform specific functions under the convention.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 7 - FOREIGN SUPPORT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS (§§ 19-11-180 — 19-11-184.8) › Section 19-11-183 - Duties of Department of Human Services; available support proceedings

(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.
(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.
(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.
(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.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 7 - FOREIGN SUPPORT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS (§§ 19-11-180 — 19-11-184.8) › Section 19-11-184 - Filing direct requests; entitlement to assistance; preference for simplified and expeditious processes

(a)
A petitioner may file a direct request seeking establishment or modification of a support order or determination of parentage of a child. In the proceeding, the law of Georgia applies.
(b)
A petitioner may file a direct request seeking recognition and enforcement of a support order or support agreement. In the proceeding, Code Sections
19-11-184.1
through
19-11-184.8
apply.
(c)
In a direct request for recognition and enforcement of a convention support order or foreign support agreement:
(1)
A security, bond, or deposit is not required to guarantee the payment of costs and expenses; and
(2)
An obligee or obligor that in the issuing country has benefited from free legal assistance is entitled to benefit, at least to the same extent, from any free legal assistance provided for by the law of Georgia under the same circumstances.
(d)
A petitioner filing a direct request is not entitled to assistance from the Department of Human Services.
(e)
This part does not prevent the application of laws of Georgia that provide simplified, more expeditious rules regarding a direct request for recognition and enforcement of a foreign support order or foreign support agreement.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 7 - FOREIGN SUPPORT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS (§§ 19-11-180 — 19-11-184.8) › Section 19-11-184.1 - Request for registration

(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.
(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.
(e)
The tribunal shall promptly notify the parties of the registration or the order vacating the registration of a convention support order.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 7 - FOREIGN SUPPORT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS (§§ 19-11-180 — 19-11-184.8) › Section 19-11-184.2 - Contest of registered convention support order

(a)
Except as otherwise provided in this part, Code Sections
19-11-164
through
19-11-167
apply to a contest of a registered convention support order.
(b)
A party contesting a registered convention support order shall file a contest not later than 30 days after notice of the registration, but if the contesting party does not reside in the United States, the contest must be filed not later than 60 days after notice of the registration.
(c)
If the nonregistering party fails to contest the registered convention support order by the time specified in subsection (b) of this Code section, the order is enforceable.
(d)
A contest of a registered convention support order may be based only on grounds set forth in Code Section
19-11-184.3
. The contesting party bears the burden of proof.
(e)
In a contest of a registered convention support order, a tribunal of Georgia:
(1)
Is bound by the findings of fact on which the foreign tribunal based its jurisdiction; and
(2)
May not review the merits of the order.
(f)
A tribunal of Georgia deciding a contest of a registered convention support order shall promptly notify the parties of its decision.
(g)
A challenge or appeal, if any, does not stay the enforcement of a convention support order unless there are exceptional circumstances.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 7 - FOREIGN SUPPORT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS (§§ 19-11-180 — 19-11-184.8) › Section 19-11-184.3 - Grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement of registered convention support order

(a)
Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b) of this Code section, a tribunal of Georgia shall recognize and enforce a registered convention support order.
(b)
The following grounds are the only grounds on which a tribunal of Georgia may refuse recognition and enforcement of a registered convention support order:
(1)
Recognition and enforcement of the order is manifestly incompatible with public policy, including the failure of the issuing tribunal to observe minimum standards of due process, which include notice and an opportunity to be heard;
(2)
The issuing tribunal lacked personal jurisdiction consistent with Code Section
19-11-110
;
(3)
The order is not enforceable in the issuing country;
(4)
The order was obtained by fraud in connection with a matter of procedure;
(5)
A record transmitted in accordance with Code Section
19-11-184.1
lacks authenticity or integrity;
(6)
A proceeding between the same parties and having the same purpose is pending before a tribunal of Georgia and that proceeding was the first to be filed;
(7)
The order is incompatible with a more recent support order involving the same parties and having the same purpose if the more recent support order is entitled to recognition and enforcement under this article in Georgia;
(8)
Payment, to the extent alleged arrears have been paid in whole or in part;
(9)
In a case in which the respondent neither appeared nor was represented in the proceeding in the issuing foreign country:
(A)
If the law of that country provides for prior notice of proceedings, the respondent did not have proper notice of the proceedings and an opportunity to be heard; or
(B)
If the law of that country does not provide for prior notice of the proceedings, the respondent did not have proper notice of the order and an opportunity to be heard in a challenge or appeal on fact or law before a tribunal; or
(10)
The order was made in violation of Code Section
19-11-184.6
.
(c)
If a tribunal of Georgia does not recognize a convention support order under paragraph (2), (4), or (9) of subsection (b) of this Code section:
(1)
The tribunal may not dismiss the proceeding without allowing a reasonable time for a party to request the establishment of a new convention support order; and
(2)
The Department of Human Services shall take all appropriate measures to request a child support order for the obligee if the application for recognition and enforcement was received under Code Section
19-11-183
.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 7 - FOREIGN SUPPORT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS (§§ 19-11-180 — 19-11-184.8) › Section 19-11-184.4 - Option to enforce portions of convention support order

If a tribunal of Georgia does not recognize and enforce a convention support order in its entirety, it shall enforce any severable part of the order. An application or direct request may seek recognition and partial enforcement of a convention support order.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 7 - FOREIGN SUPPORT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS (§§ 19-11-180 — 19-11-184.8) › Section 19-11-184.5 - Recognition and enforcement of foreign support agreement

(a)
Except as otherwise provided in subsections (c) and (d) of this Code section, a tribunal of Georgia shall recognize and enforce a foreign support agreement registered in this state.
(b)
An application or direct request for recognition and enforcement of a foreign support agreement must be accompanied by:
(1)
A complete text of the foreign support agreement; and
(2)
A record stating that the foreign support agreement is enforceable as an order of support in the issuing country.
(c)
A tribunal of Georgia may vacate the registration of a foreign support agreement only if, acting on its own motion, the tribunal finds that recognition and enforcement would be manifestly incompatible with public policy.
(d)
In a contest of a foreign support agreement, a tribunal of Georgia may refuse recognition and enforcement of the agreement if it finds:
(1)
Recognition and enforcement of the agreement is manifestly incompatible with public policy;
(2)
The agreement was obtained by fraud or falsification;
(3)
The agreement is incompatible with a support order involving the same parties and having the same purpose in this state, another state, or a foreign country if the support order is entitled to recognition and enforcement under this article in Georgia; or
(4)
The record submitted under subsection (b) of this Code section lacks authenticity or integrity.
(e)
A proceeding for recognition and enforcement of a foreign support agreement must be suspended during the pendency of a challenge to or appeal of the agreement before a tribunal of another state or a foreign country.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 7 - FOREIGN SUPPORT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS (§§ 19-11-180 — 19-11-184.8) › Section 19-11-184.6 - Modification of convention child support order

(a)
A tribunal of Georgia may not modify a convention child support order if the obligee remains a resident of the foreign country where the support order was issued unless:
(1)
The obligee submits to the jurisdiction of a tribunal of Georgia, either expressly or by defending on the merits of the case without objecting to the jurisdiction at the first available opportunity; or
(2)
The foreign tribunal lacks or refuses to exercise jurisdiction to modify its support order or issue a new support order.
(b)
If a tribunal of Georgia does not modify a convention child support order because the order is not recognized in this state, subsection (c) of Code Section
19-11-184.3
applies.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 7 - FOREIGN SUPPORT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS (§§ 19-11-180 — 19-11-184.8) › Section 19-11-184.7 - Personal information

Personal information gathered or transmitted under this part may be used only for the purposes for which it was gathered or transmitted.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 7 - FOREIGN SUPPORT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS (§§ 19-11-180 — 19-11-184.8) › Section 19-11-184.8 - Language

A record filed with a tribunal of Georgia under this part must be in the original language and, if not in English, must be accompanied by an English translation verified by the translator.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 8 - INTERSTATE RENDITION (§§ 19-11-185 — 19-11-186) › Section 19-11-185 - "Governor" defined; authority

(a)
For purposes of this part, the term "governor" includes an individual performing the functions of governor or the executive authority of a state covered by this article.
(b)
The Governor of this state may:
(1)
Demand that the governor of another state surrender an individual found in the other state who is charged criminally in this state with having failed to provide for the support of an obligee; or
(2)
On the demand of the governor of another state, surrender an individual found in this state who is charged criminally in the other state with having failed to provide for the support of an obligee.
(c)
A provision for extradition of individuals not inconsistent with this article applies to the demand even if the individual whose surrender is demanded was not in the demanding state when the crime was allegedly committed and has not fled therefrom.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 8 - INTERSTATE RENDITION (§§ 19-11-185 — 19-11-186) › Section 19-11-186 - Prosecutor's duties upon request by governor; rendition

(a)
Before making a demand that the governor of another state surrender an individual charged criminally in this state with having failed to provide for the support of an obligee, the Governor of this state may require a prosecutor of this state to demonstrate that at least 90 days previously the obligee had initiated proceedings for support pursuant to this article or that the proceeding would be of no avail.
(b)
If, under this article or a law substantially similar to this article, the governor of another state makes a demand that the Governor of this state surrender an individual charged criminally in that state with having failed to provide for the support of a child or other individual to whom a duty of support is owed, the Governor of this state may require a prosecutor to investigate the demand and report whether a proceeding for support has been initiated or would be effective. If it appears that a proceeding would be effective but has not been initiated, the Governor of this state may delay honoring the demand for a reasonable time to permit the initiation of a proceeding.
(c)
If a proceeding for support has been initiated and the individual whose rendition is demanded prevails, the Governor of this state may decline to honor the demand. If the petitioner prevails and the individual whose rendition is demanded is subject to a support order, the Governor of this state may decline to honor the demand if the individual is complying with the support order.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 9 - MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS (§§ 19-11-190 — 19-11-191) › Section 19-11-190 - Construction of article; uniformity

In applying and construing this article, consideration must be given to the need to promote uniformity of the law with respect to its subject matter among states that enact it.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 9 - MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS (§§ 19-11-190 — 19-11-191) › Section 19-11-190.1 - Effective date

This article applies to proceedings begun on or after July 1, 2013, to establish a support order or determine parentage of a child or to register, recognize, enforce, or modify a prior support order, determination, or agreement, whenever issued or entered.
Added by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 11 - ENFORCEMENT OF DUTY OF SUPPORT (§§ 19-11-1 — 19-11-191) › Article 3 - UNIFORM INTERSTATE FAMILY SUPPORT ACT (§§ 19-11-100 — 19-11-191) › Part 9 - MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS (§§ 19-11-190 — 19-11-191) › Section 19-11-191 - Severability

If any provision of this article or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or applications of this article which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this article are severable.
Amended by 2013 Ga. Laws 224,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 12 - CHANGE OF NAME (§§ 19-12-1 — 19-12-4) › Section 19-12-2 - Hearing on objections to petition

If written objections are filed by any interested or affected party within the time limits specified in subsection (h) of Code Section
19-12-1
, the court shall proceed to hear the matter at chambers.
Amended by 2017 Ga. Laws 222,§ 2, eff. 7/1/2017.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 12 - CHANGE OF NAME (§§ 19-12-1 — 19-12-4) › Section 19-12-3 - Certificate of name change; use as evidence; form of certificate

(a)
At any time after the entry of the final order of change of name, upon the request of the petitioner requesting the change of name, the clerk of the court granting the same shall issue to the petitioner a certificate of change of name, under the seal of the court, upon payment to the clerk of the fee provided in paragraph (4) of subsection (g) of Code Section
15-6-77
. The certificate shall be received as evidence of the facts contained in the certificate.
(b)
The certificate of change of name shall be in substantially the following form:
This is to certify that __________________ (name of petitioner) has obtained final order of change of name in the Superior Court of __________________ County, Georgia, on the __________________ day of __________________, __________________, as shown by the records of the court.
The name (or names) of __________________ (full name prior to entry of the final order of change of name) has (or have) been changed to __________________ (full name after entry of the final order of change of name).
Given under the hand and seal of said court, this the __________________ day of __________________, __________________.
(Seal of court)
__________________Clerk
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 12 - CHANGE OF NAME (§§ 19-12-1 — 19-12-4) › Section 19-12-4 - Name change with fraudulent intent not authorized

Nothing contained in this chapter shall authorize any person to change his name with a view to deprive another fraudulently of any right under the law.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 13 - FAMILY VIOLENCE (§§ 19-13-1 — 19-13-56) › Article 1 - GRANTING OF RELIEF BY SUPERIOR COURTS (§§ 19-13-1 — 19-13-6) › Section 19-13-1 - "Family violence" defined

As used in this article, the term "family violence" means the occurrence of one or more of the following acts between past or present spouses, persons who are parents of the same child, parents and children, stepparents and stepchildren, foster parents and foster children, or other persons living or formerly living in the same household:
(1)
Any felony; or
(2)
Commission of offenses of battery, simple battery, simple assault, assault, stalking, criminal damage to property, unlawful restraint, or criminal trespass.
The term "family violence" shall not be deemed to include reasonable discipline administered by a parent to a child in the form of corporal punishment, restraint, or detention.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 13 - FAMILY VIOLENCE (§§ 19-13-1 — 19-13-56) › Article 1 - GRANTING OF RELIEF BY SUPERIOR COURTS (§§ 19-13-1 — 19-13-6) › Section 19-13-2 - Jurisdiction of superior court

(a)
Except for proceedings involving a nonresident respondent, the superior court of the county where the respondent resides shall have jurisdiction over all proceedings under this article.
(b)
For proceedings under this article involving a nonresident respondent, the superior court where the petitioner resides or the superior court where an act involving family violence allegedly occurred shall have jurisdiction, where the act involving family violence meets the elements for personal jurisdiction provided for under paragraph (2) or (3) of Code Section
9-10-91
.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 13 - FAMILY VIOLENCE (§§ 19-13-1 — 19-13-56) › Article 1 - GRANTING OF RELIEF BY SUPERIOR COURTS (§§ 19-13-1 — 19-13-6) › Section 19-13-3 - Petition seeking relief from family violence; temporary relief ex parte; hearing; dismissal of petition upon failure to hold hearing; procedural advice for victims; delays

(a)
A person who is not a minor may seek relief under this article by filing a petition with the superior court alleging one or more acts of family violence. A person who is not a minor may also seek relief on behalf of a minor by filing such a petition.
(b)
Upon the filing of a verified petition in which the petitioner alleges with specific facts that probable cause exists to establish that family violence has occurred in the past and may occur in the future, the court may order such temporary relief ex parte as it deems necessary to protect the petitioner or a minor of the household from violence. If the court issues an ex parte order, a copy of the order shall be immediately furnished to the petitioner and such order shall remain in effect until the court issues an order dismissing such order or a hearing as set forth in subsection (c) of this Code section occurs, whichever occurs first.
(c)
Within ten days of the filing of the petition under this article or as soon as practical thereafter, but not later than 30 days after the filing of the petition, a hearing shall be held at which the petitioner must prove the allegations of the petition by a preponderance of the evidence as in other civil cases. In the event a hearing cannot be scheduled within the county where the case is pending within the 30 day period the same shall be scheduled and heard within any other county of that circuit. If a hearing is not held within 30 days of the filing of the petition, the petition shall stand dismissed unless the parties otherwise agree.
(d)
Family violence shelter or social service agency staff members designated by the court may explain to all victims not represented by counsel the procedures for filling out and filing all forms and pleadings necessary for the presentation of their petition to the court. The clerk of the court may provide forms for petitions and pleadings to victims of family violence and to any other person designated by the superior court pursuant to this Code section as authorized to advise victims on filling out and filing such petitions and pleadings. The clerk shall not be required to provide assistance to persons in completing such forms or in presenting their case to the court. Any assistance provided pursuant to this Code section shall be performed without cost to the petitioners. The performance of such assistance shall not constitute the practice of law as defined in Code Section
15-19-51
.
(e)
If the court finds a party is avoiding service to delay a hearing, the court may delay dismissal of the petition for an additional 30 days.
Amended by 2018 Ga. Laws 482,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2018.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 13 - FAMILY VIOLENCE (§§ 19-13-1 — 19-13-56) › Article 1 - GRANTING OF RELIEF BY SUPERIOR COURTS (§§ 19-13-1 — 19-13-6) › Section 19-13-4.1 - "Local law enforcement agency" defined; security checks

(a)
As used in this Code section, the term "local law enforcement agency" means county and city:
(1)
Police departments; and
(2)
Sheriff offices.
(b)
(1)
Upon obtaining a protective order under Code Section
19-13-3
or
19-13-4
, the petitioner may elect to request periodic security checks from any local law enforcement agency with jurisdiction in which the petitioner resides.
(2)
Such security checks shall occur at intervals and times in the discretion of the local law enforcement agency and shall continue for the duration of the order or until such request is withdrawn by the petitioner or the local law enforcement agency determines that the petitioner's circumstances no longer appear to require such security checks.
(3)
Security checks may include:
(A)
Observation of the exterior of the petitioner's residence; and
(B)
Officer presence in the vicinity of the petitioner's residence.
(4)
If such petitioner elects to request such periodic security checks, the petitioner shall provide to the local law enforcement agency the temporary protective order for photocopying purposes and provide a written request for the law enforcement agency to conduct periodic security checks at the petitioner's residence contained in the protective order for a period of up to 60 days.
Added by 2021 Ga. Laws 183,§ 1, eff. 5/4/2021.
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA › Title 19 - DOMESTIC RELATIONS (§§ 19-1-1 — 19-15-7) › Chapter 13 - FAMILY VIOLENCE (§§ 19-13-1 — 19-13-56) › Article 1 - GRANTING OF RELIEF BY SUPERIOR COURTS (§§ 19-13-1 — 19-13-6) › Section 19-13-5 - Supplemental nature of remedies provided by article

The remedies provided by this article are not exclusive but are additional to any other remedies provided by law.