Section 15-11-531. (Effective January 1, 2014) Service of summons

   (a) If a party to be served with a summons is within this state and can be found, the summons shall be served upon him or her personally as soon as possible and at least 24 hours before the adjudication hearing.

(b) If a party to be served is within this state and cannot be found but his or her address is known or can be ascertained with due diligence, the summons shall be served upon such party at least five days before the adjudication hearing by mailing him or her a copy by registered or certified mail or statutory overnight delivery, return receipt requested.

(c) If an individual to be served is outside this state but his or her address is known or can be ascertained with due diligence, notice of the summons shall be made at least five days before the adjudication hearing either by delivering a copy to such party personally or by mailing a copy to him or her by registered or certified mail or statutory overnight delivery, return receipt requested.

(d) Service of the summons may be made by any suitable person under the direction of the court.

(e) The court may authorize payment from county funds of the costs of service and of necessary travel expenses incurred by persons summoned or otherwise required to appear at the hearing.

Code 1981, § 15-11-531, enacted by Ga. L. 2013, p. 294, § 1-1/HB 242.