Georgia § 17-8-3 - Entry of nolle prosequi.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 17-8-3 — Entry of nolle prosequi., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 17-8-3. Entry of nolle prosequi.
After an examination of the case in open court and before it has been submitted to a jury, the prosecuting attorney may enter a nolle prosequi with the consent of the court. After the case has been submitted to a jury, a nolle prosequi shall not be entered except by the consent of the defendant. The prosecuting attorney shall notify the defendant and the defendant's attorney of record within 30 days of the entry of a nolle prosequi either personally or in writing; such written notice shall be sent by regular mail to the defendant at the defendant's last known address and to the defendant's attorney of record. (Laws 1833, Cobb's 1851 Digest, p. 836; Code 1863, § 4535; Code 1868, § 4555; Ga. L. 1870, p. 422, § 1; Code 1873, § 4649; Ga. L. 1877, p. 108, § 1; Code 1882, § 4649; Penal Code 1895, § 957; Penal Code 1910, § 982; Code 1933, § 27-1801; Ga. L. 1989, p. 585, § 1.) Law reviews. - For survey article on death penalty law, see 59 Mercer L. Rev. 123 (2007).
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 17-8-3
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 17-8-3 cover?
Section 17-8-3 ("Entry of nolle prosequi.") 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 § 17-8-3?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 17-8-3" (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 § 17-8-3 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.