Georgia § 16-17-4 - Liability for civil penalty to state; distribution of proceeds.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-17-4 — Liability for civil penalty to state; distribution of proceeds., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-17-4. Liability for civil penalty to state; distribution of proceeds.
Any person who violates subsection (a) or (b) of Code Section 16-17-2 shall be liable to the state for a civil penalty equal to three times the amount of any interest or charges to the borrowers in the unlawful transactions. A civil action under Code Section 16-17-2 may be brought by the Attorney General, any district attorney, or a private party. Where a successful civil action is brought by a district attorney, one-half of the damages recovered on behalf of the state shall be distributed to the office of the district attorney of the judicial circuit of such district attorney to be used by the district attorney in order to fund the budget of that office. (Code 1981, § 16-17-4 , enacted by Ga. L. 2004, p. 60, § 3; Ga. L. 2005, p. 60, § 16/HB 95.)
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 16-17-4
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-17-4 cover?
Section 16-17-4 ("Liability for civil penalty to state; distribution of proceeds.") 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 § 16-17-4?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-17-4" (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 § 16-17-4 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.