Georgia § 53-12-4 - Law governing the validity of the trust.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-12-4 — Law governing the validity of the trust., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 53-12-4. Law governing the validity of the trust.
As to real property, the validity of a trust shall be determined by the law of the situs of the real property. As to all other property, the validity of a trust shall be determined by: The law of the jurisdiction designated in the trust instrument unless the effect of the designation is contrary to the public policy of the jurisdiction having the most significant relationship to the matter at issue; or In the absence of an effective designation in the trust instrument, the law of the jurisdiction having the most significant relationship to the matter at issue. (Code 1981, § 53-12-4 , enacted by Ga. L. 2010, p. 579, § 1/SB 131.)
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 53-12-4
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-12-4 cover?
Section 53-12-4 ("Law governing the validity of the trust.") 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 § 53-12-4?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-12-4" (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 § 53-12-4 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.