Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Georgia
I went to magistrate court on Friday and was ordered to give back some of y sisters belongings. Some of the stuff doesn't belong to her, but the judge would not hear any of my arguments on about whether or not stuff was actually hers. I gave her the things that was hers. How can I be forced to give over things that are mine or that I do not have at all. If I don't the judge said there she can take me back to court and I will go to jail. What are my options?
2 Answers from Attorneys
The judge heard both sides and made a decision. Complaining here does you no good. You may be able to appeal the order, either spending thousands of dollars on a lawyer or risking that a judge will find the appeal frivolous and sanction you for fees and expenses. The magistrate judge may also still find you in contempt and put you in jail. From your post, the best option is almost always going to be to accept the ruling and comply with the order.
You already lost the case (the time to get legal help is before a case, not after). If you defy the judge now, you will likely be found in contempt, lose the items anyway, and go to jail. Your options: (a) you can appeal in superior court with a lawyer. Expect to pay at least a few thousand dollars for the legal fees, (b) you can follow the court order, or (c) you can go to jail.
Related Questions & Answers
Looking for something else?
10,200 active attorneys ready to answer your legal questions today.
Featured Attorneys
Earn additional revenue and grow your business.
