About Paula T. Hanington, Attorney — Law Firm Albany Practice
Paula T. Hanington runs a law firm Albany residents trust for civil, business, and personal legal work across Dougherty County, Georgia. The practice handles matters in the Superior Court of Dougherty County, which holds exclusive jurisdiction over felony cases, land title matters, divorce, and equity claims. Because the Superior Court also hears civil cases above $15,000, local attorneys must coordinate with both the State Court and Magistrate Court for smaller claims. Clients searching for a steady Albany attorney find careful case review and practical counsel at this firm.
In addition to general civil work, the attorney advises on contracts, landlord-tenant disputes, collections, and simple estate documents. Because Georgia requires strict compliance with OCGA § 44-14-162 for dispossessory actions, careful filing avoids dismissal. The firm also works with small businesses on LLC formation, operating agreements, and commercial leases. Consultations focus on real options — litigation, mediation, or direct negotiation — not one-size-fits-all advice.
What Clients Say
Reviewers describe the attorney as meticulous, community-rooted, and attentive to clients’ long-term goals. Clients note that she returns calls promptly and explains Georgia procedure in clear language. Many also highlight reasonable fees for the quality of work delivered.
Law Firm Albany — Practice Areas & Services
- Civil litigation in the Superior Court of Dougherty County.
- State Court and Magistrate Court claims for smaller disputes.
- Landlord-tenant matters, including dispossessory actions under OCGA.
- Small-business formation, contracts, and commercial leases.
- Simple wills, powers of attorney, and advance directives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are civil cases heard in Dougherty County?
The Superior Court of Dougherty County hears felony cases, land title disputes, divorce, equity matters, and civil cases above $15,000. State Court handles civil matters up to $15,000, and Magistrate Court handles claims up to $15,000 including small claims. The courthouse is located in downtown Albany at 225 Pine Avenue.
How long does Georgia allow to file a contract case?
Georgia sets a six-year statute of limitations on written contracts and a four-year limit on oral contracts. Open accounts and promissory notes follow their own rules. An attorney can confirm the deadline for your specific claim before filing.
What is a dispossessory action in Georgia?
A dispossessory is Georgia’s eviction procedure, filed in Magistrate Court under OCGA § 44-7-50. The tenant has seven days to answer; if they fail to answer, a default writ issues immediately. Strict compliance with service and notice requirements is critical.
Quick Facts: Law Firms in Albany, Georgia
- Superior Court of Dougherty County: Exclusive jurisdiction over felony, land title, divorce, and equity — Dougherty County Superior Court
- Civil threshold: Superior Court handles cases above $15,000 — Georgia Constitution Art. VI
- Magistrate Court cap: Up to $15,000 including small claims — OCGA § 15-10-2


