Georgia / Pleadings
Georgia answer after a Rule 12 ruling deadline
In Georgia, you generally must answer after a motion to dismiss is denied within 15 days after notice of the ruling denying the rule 12 motion (O.C.G.A. § 9-11-12(a)).
Estimates based on standard Georgia rules and court-holiday closures; not legal advice. Confirm against your specific case, local administrative orders, and the current rules.
How the deadline works
Under O.C.G.A. § 9-11-12(a), the answer is due within 15 days after notice of the ruling denying the rule 12 motion. Added by SB 68 (2025 Ga. Laws Act 9, § 2), effective April 21, 2025. A defendant who files a Rule 12 motion need not answer until the court rules. This 15-day period replaces the ordinary 30 days and also runs from service of a more definite statement. It applies to causes of action pending on April 21, 2025, not only those filed after it. A deadline landing on a weekend or court holiday moves to the next business day.
Questions
- How long do I have to answer after a motion to dismiss is denied in Georgia?
- Generally 15 days after notice of the ruling denying the rule 12 motion, under O.C.G.A. § 9-11-12(a).