Bill requiring electronic filing in Georgia probate courts advances to governor’s desk

A bill sponsored by State Rep. Rob Leverett would require Georgia probate courts to implement electronic filing systems for civil proceedings, with the Council of Probate Court Judges responsible for establishing operational procedures, according to the Georgia State House.

The measure passed both chambers as of Friday, March 27, earning unanimous support—159-0 in the House and 48-0 in the Senate.

Filed as HB530 on Wednesday, Feb. 19, during the 2026 regular session of the 158th General Assembly, the bill is described as: ‘Courts; authorization for electronic filing of pleadings in probate court; provide’.

The following summary is based on the actual bill text and includes clarifying interpretation where necessary.

This legislation stipulates that all Georgia probate courts must enable electronic filing of pleadings and related documents in civil matters by Jan. 1, 2028, following Council of Probate Court Judges rules. Electronic filing service providers may charge a one-time fee up to $30 per filer per case, as well as a convenience fee for electronic payments. Certain documents filed by government entities or specific court-appointed representatives are exempt from these fees. Attorneys and self-represented parties must be given cost-free access to view filed documents. The system’s requirements do not extend to pauper’s affidavits or sealed filings, and each court must establish compliant procedures.

In the House, the legislation received 62 Democratic and 97 Republican votes, with no dissent.

Likewise, the Senate vote included 18 Democrats and 30 Republicans backing the measure, with zero votes in opposition.

Rep. Trey Kelley (Republican-16th), Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver (Democrat-84th), Rep. Matt Reeves (Republican-99th), and two additional co-sponsors joined as proponents of the bill.

Leverett holds a bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College earned in 1986 and a juris doctor from the University of Georgia.

Leverett, a Republican, began serving in the Georgia State House in 2023 for District 123, succeeding former representative Mark Newton.

Gov. Brian Kemp signed the measure into law on Tuesday, May 5.

In Georgia, the legislative process begins when a state lawmaker, sometimes prompted by a constituent, drafts legislation with the Office of Legislative Counsel. After submission to either the Clerk of the House or Secretary of the Senate, the bill has its first reading and enters committee review for most debate and analysis. Approval in committee means the bill proceeds to the floor for a third reading, further debate, and a vote. To become law, it must clear both chambers and may undergo reconciliation by conference committee if there are differences. The governor then has six days during session or 40 days after adjournment (Sine Die) to sign, veto, or allow the bill to take effect without action. The Georgia General Assembly convenes annually for a 40-day session starting the second Monday in January.

Information in this article was obtained from the Georgia State House. The source data can be found here.