GA HB1016

Expands Georgia magistrate court jurisdiction to include proceedings against intruders and unlawful squatting, allowing expedited removal of persons in unauthorized possession of real property

Requires law enforcement to provide persons in unauthorized possession at least 3 days' notice via affidavit before removal, during which time the occupant may submit a counteraffidavit claiming legal right to possession

Creates new procedure allowing "interested third parties" (neighboring unit/lot owners in condominiums or HOA developments) to initiate removal of unauthorized occupants from affected properties within their community

Requires interested third parties to first provide 3 days' written notice to the affected property owner via certified mail before initiating removal; the affected owner can authorize, deny, or fail to respond (which permits proceeding)

Authorizes courts to award fair market rent for the duration of unauthorized occupancy plus other monetary relief; appeals go directly to Georgia appellate courts rather than de novo superior court review; effective July 1, 2026