Georgia § 53-6-20 - Selection or appointment of administrator.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-6-20 — Selection or appointment of administrator., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 53-6-20. Selection or appointment of administrator.
An administrator may be unanimously selected by all the heirs of a deceased intestate unless the sole heir is the decedent's surviving spouse and an action for divorce or separate maintenance was pending between the deceased intestate and the surviving spouse at the time of death. With respect to any heir who is not sui juris, consent may be given by the guardian of the individual. When no such unanimous selection is made, the probate court shall make the appointment that will best serve the interests of the estate, considering the following order of preferences: The surviving spouse, unless an action for divorce or separate maintenance was pending between the deceased intestate and the surviving spouse at the time of death; One or more other heirs of the intestate or the person selected by the majority in interest of them; Any other eligible person; Any creditor of the estate; or The county administrator. (Code 1981, § 53-6-20 , enacted by Ga. L. 1996, p. 504, § 10; Ga. L. 1998, p. 1586, § 22.) Law reviews. - For annual survey of law of wills, trusts, and administration of estates, see 38 Mercer L. Rev. 417 (1986).
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 53-6-20
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-6-20 cover?
Section 53-6-20 ("Selection or appointment of administrator.") 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 § 53-6-20?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-6-20" (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 § 53-6-20 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.