GA HB1431

Establishes a presumption of joint physical custody by both parents in divorce proceedings until the matter comes before a judge for a temporary or permanent hearing

Exceptions apply when there is a history of family violence or when joint physical custody is not practicable for the parents to exercise

Retains existing law that neither parent has a prima-facie right to custody and no presumption favors either parent

Judges retain authority at any hearing to grant sole custody, joint custody, joint legal custody, or joint physical custody as appropriate

Amends Code Section 19-9-3 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to child custody and visitation establishment and review