Divorce process in Georgia

Divorce process in Georgia: this guide explains the applicable rights, rules, documents and procedures using official sources.

If there is no dispute, spouses may register divorce with the civil registration authority. SDA states that a joint application is processed in 5 working days for GEL 60. A dispute requires court proceedings.

Children and maintenance

Without agreement, the court determines the child’s residence, the paying parent and the monthly amount. Georgia has no automatic statutory percentage or uniform minimum: the court reasonably and fairly assesses the child’s normal maintenance and upbringing needs and the actual financial and family position of the child and both parents.

Procedure and fees

The first-instance fee for a non-property claim is GEL 100, while a claimant seeking maintenance is exempt from court costs for that claim. The court may allow up to six months for reconciliation and may order interim maintenance before deciding the merits.

Past maintenance and enforcement

Maintenance is normally awarded prospectively from filing. Up to three preceding years may be recovered if prior collection efforts and avoidance by the debtor are proved. Enforcement proceeds under a writ; a material change in circumstances can justify a later increase or reduction by the court.