Governor Deal signed a law today in response to last year’s outcry from the business community when the Georgia Supreme Court stated that it is the unauthorized practice of law for any non-lawyer to answer a garnishment for a business entity in a Georgia court of record. The new law (effective immediately) frees businesses from that requirement and expense. But there are two provisos that businesses should be mindful of. First, it only covers the answer, so an attorney is still required if a traverse or claim is filed. Second, this new law risks being struck down. Questions have been raised about whether it infringes on the Supreme Court’s responsibility for regulating the practice of law. If you have any doubts or questions about a garnishment that your business has received, our experienced attorneys are available to help.
