Family violence bonds and no contact conditions

An individual judge must decide

Georgia Code 17-6-1 requires bail or release involving family violence to be set individually rather than through a general schedule. Following a warrantless arrest for family violence or a criminal family violence order violation, the person must be brought before a judicial officer before becoming eligible for bail. Ask counsel which judge has authority and the jail when the appearance and order are expected. A private company cannot set the amount while the decision is pending.

Source: Georgia Code 17-6-1, public statute text · Fulton Clerk: first appearance hearings

What restricted release means

Family violence offenses are among the charges restricted from unsecured judicial release under 17-6-12. This addresses the permitted release route; it does not say that every family violence charge has no possible bond. The judge can impose case specific protective conditions, and other charges or holds can affect eligibility. Obtain the order for every case instead of relying on a generic misdemeanor price.

Source: Georgia SB 63, signed 2024 act · Georgia Code 17-6-1, public statute text

Read the conditions before calling or going home

Check the named protected people, prohibited direct and indirect contact, addresses and places to avoid, residence restrictions, any weapon provisions, counseling or treatment duties and travel limits. If a separate protective order also exists, ask counsel how both orders apply. Another person’s invitation or consent does not modify a court order. For belongings, medicine or a vehicle at a restricted address, ask counsel and the appropriate law enforcement agency about a lawful retrieval arrangement before anyone goes there. Ask the court through counsel for clarification or a change when needed; until granted, follow the current order.

Source: Georgia Courts Domestic Violence Benchbook · Georgia Code 17-6-1, public statute text · Fulton Magistrate Court: first appearance pamphlet

Plan a permitted destination

Before pickup, choose a destination that complies with every order and a driver who can follow the restrictions. Do not use a relative, message app or social account to make contact forbidden by the order. A claimed violation can lead to court review and possible revocation. Keep copies of orders and give concerns to defense counsel promptly. For immediate danger, call 911.

Source: Georgia Courts Domestic Violence Benchbook · Fulton Magistrate Court: first appearance pamphlet

Sources for this guide

1. Georgia Code 17-6-1, public statute text
2. Fulton Clerk: first appearance hearings
3. Georgia SB 63, signed 2024 act
4. Georgia Courts Domestic Violence Benchbook
5. Fulton Magistrate Court: first appearance pamphlet

Sources checked 2026-09-16. Follow the current order and the official instructions for the case.