Georgia § 19-9-1 - 1. Binding arbitration on issue of child custody and related matters.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 19-9-1 — 1. Binding arbitration on issue of child custody and related matters., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 19-9-1. 1. Binding arbitration on issue of child custody and related matters.
In all proceedings under this article, it shall be expressly permissible for the parents of a child to agree to binding arbitration on the issue of child custody and matters relative to visitation, parenting time, and a parenting plan. The parents may select their arbiter and decide which issues will be resolved in binding arbitration. The arbiter's decisions shall be incorporated into a final decree awarding child custody unless the judge makes specific written factual findings that under the circumstances of the parents and the child the arbiter's award would not be in the best interests of the child. In its judgment, the judge may supplement the arbiter's decision on issues not covered by the binding arbitration. (Code 1981, § 19-9-1.1 , enacted by Ga. L. 2007, p. 554, § 5/HB 369.) Editor's notes. - Ga. L. 2007, p. 554, § 1/HB 369, not codified by the General Assembly, provides: "The General Assembly of Georgia declares that it is the policy of this state to assure that minor children have frequent and continuing contact with parents who have shown the ability to act in the best interests of their children and to encourage parents to share in the rights and responsibilities of rearing their children after the parents have separated or dissolved their marriage or relationship." Ga. L. 2007, p. 554, § 8/HB 369, not codified by the General Assembly, provides that this Code section shall apply to all child custody proceedings and modifications of child custody filed on or after January 1, 2008. Law reviews. - For survey article on domestic relations law, see 60 Mercer L. Rev. 121 (2008). For article, "Comprehensive Arbitration of Domestic Relations Cases in Georgia," see 14 Ga. St. B.J. 20 (2008).
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 19-9-1
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 19-9-1 cover?
Section 19-9-1 ("1. Binding arbitration on issue of child custody and related matters.") is part of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, the codified statutory law of Georgia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Georgia § 19-9-1?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 19-9-1" (Georgia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Georgia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Georgia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Georgia attorney.
How does Georgia § 19-9-1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Georgia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Georgia.