Georgia § 51-11-1 - Authorization to act as justification; effect of plea.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-11-1 — Authorization to act as justification; effect of plea., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 51-11-1. Authorization to act as justification; effect of plea.
If the defendant in a tort action was authorized to do the act complained of, he may plead such authorization as justification. The effect of such plea is to admit that the act was done and to entitle the defendant to all the privileges of one holding the affirmative of the issue. Such plea, however, shall not give the defendant the right to open and conclude the argument before the jury unless it is filed before the plaintiff submits any evidence to the jury. (Orig. Code 1863, § 2983; Code 1868, § 2996; Code 1873, § 3051; Code 1882, § 3051; Ga. L. 1888, p. 35, § 1; Civil Code 1895, § 3891; Civil Code 1910, § 4488; Code 1933, § 105-1801.) Law reviews. - For article, the right to open and conclude the argument in tort cases, see 22 Ga. B. J. 297 (1960).
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 51-11-1
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-11-1 cover?
Section 51-11-1 ("Authorization to act as justification; effect of plea.") 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 § 51-11-1?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-11-1" (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 § 51-11-1 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.