Family Violence
Domestic violence protections, protective orders, and legal remedies in Georgia.
How an Ex Parte Temporary Protective Order Works in Georgia
A Georgia court can enter a protective order the day you file, without notice to the other side, but the hearing has to happen within 30 days.
Read MoreHow Georgia Law Works to Prevent Further Family Violence
Beyond telling someone to stay away, a Georgia protective order triggers an intervention program, optional security checks, and a state-wide duty to enforce.
Read MoreHow Long Does a Georgia Protective Order Last?
A family violence protective order runs up to one year, and can be converted to three years or made permanent on the petitioner's motion after a hearing.
Read MoreIs My Out-of-State Protective Order Enforceable in Georgia?
A protective order from another state is enforceable in Georgia without being registered or domesticated, and filing a copy here is free and optional.
Read MoreStalking and Aggravated Stalking in Georgia
Aggravated stalking is stalking committed in violation of a court order, but the State still has to prove a pattern of harassing and intimidating behavior.
Read MoreWhat Help Georgia Law Provides to Family Violence Victims
The Family Violence Act itself provides free help preparing a petition, protects the location of shelters, and authorizes Family Justice Centers.
Read MoreWhat is a Temporary Protective Order (TPO) in Georgia?
A TPO is a superior court order under the Family Violence Act, and the petitioner has to prove the allegations by a preponderance of the evidence.
Read MoreWhat Makes a Crime "Family Violence" in Georgia?
Georgia has no separate crime called domestic violence. Ordinary offenses are reclassified as family violence based on the relationship between the parties.
Read MoreWho Must Report Child Abuse in Georgia?
Georgia law names fifteen categories of mandatory reporters, gives them 24 hours to report, and protects a good faith report from liability.
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