Georgia § 17-5-1 - Search pursuant to lawful arrest authorized.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 17-5-1 — Search pursuant to lawful arrest authorized., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 17-5-1. Search pursuant to lawful arrest authorized.
When a lawful arrest is effected a peace officer may reasonably search the person arrested and the area within the person's immediate presence for the purpose of: Protecting the officer from attack; Preventing the person from escaping; Discovering or seizing the fruits of the crime for which the person has been arrested; or Discovering or seizing any instruments, articles, or things which are being used or which may have been used in the commission of the crime for which the person has been arrested. When the peace officer is in the process of effecting a lawful search, nothing in this Code section shall be construed to preclude him from discovering or seizing any stolen or embezzled property, any item, substance, object, thing, or matter, the possession of which is unlawful, or any item, substance, object, thing, or matter, other than the private papers of any person, which is tangible evidence of the commission of a crime against the laws of this state. (Ga. L. 1966, p. 567, § 1.) Law reviews. - For survey of 1987 Eleventh Circuit cases on constitutional criminal procedure, see 39 Mercer L. Rev. 1187 (1988). For survey article on criminal law, see 59 Mercer L. Rev. 89 (2007). For note, "Third Party Consent to Search and Seizure: A Reexamination," see 20 J. of Pub. L. 313 (1971).
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 17-5-1
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 17-5-1 cover?
Section 17-5-1 ("Search pursuant to lawful arrest authorized.") 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 § 17-5-1?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 17-5-1" (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 § 17-5-1 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.