Georgia § 53-2-20 - Jurisdiction of probate or superior court.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-2-20 — Jurisdiction of probate or superior court., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 53-2-20. Jurisdiction of probate or superior court.
The identity or interest of any heir may be resolved judicially upon application to the probate court that has jurisdiction by virtue of a pending administration or that would have jurisdiction in the event of an administration of the estate of the decedent. Alternatively, the petition may be filed in the superior court of the county where the probate court having jurisdiction, as defined in this Code section, is located; provided, however, that, if the petition is filed in connection with a contested proceeding to determine a purported heir's entitlement to a year's support from the decedent's estate pursuant to Chapter 3 of this title, such petition must be filed in the probate court having jurisdiction. The proceedings for the determination of such questions shall conform to the requirements set forth in this article. (Code 1981, § 53-2-20 , enacted by Ga. L. 1996, p. 504, § 10; Ga. L. 2020, p. 377, § 1-2/HB 865.) The 2020 amendment, effective January 1, 2021, added the proviso at the end of the second sentence.
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 53-2-20
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-2-20 cover?
Section 53-2-20 ("Jurisdiction of probate or superior court.") 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 § 53-2-20?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-2-20" (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 § 53-2-20 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.