Punishment for Contempt - License Revocation
The trial courts in Georgia have the power to punish a person who is in contempt, or fails to pay child support or alimony, “to the same extent as is provided by law for contempt of the court in any other action or proceeding cognizable by the court.” OCGA 19-6-28(a). In addition to other possible punishment, such as jail time, the Georgia Code specifically allows the court to suspend a license or registration, or deny an application for same, if the respondent “has accumulated support arrears equivalent to or greater than the current support due for 60 days.” OCGA 19-6-28.1(b). This applies to a number of licenses and registrations: the license to conduct a trade, business, profession or occupation; the license to hunt or fish; the license to drive a motor vehicle; and the registration of a vehicle in Georgia. Id. In order for the license or registration to be reissued, the respondent must prove to the licensing or registering entity, by “written proof of payment by cash or certified check, notice issued by the court, or notice from a child support receiver,” that he/she is in compliance with the order for support. OCGA 19-6-28.1(c)
