O.C.G.A. § 17-7-111: Demurrers and special pleas to be in writing; right to plead “not guilty” if demurrer or plea denied.

If the defendant, upon being arraigned, demurs to the indictment, pleads to the jurisdiction of the court, pleads in abatement, or enters any other special plea in bar, the demurrer or plea shall be made in writing. If the demurrer or plea is decided against the defendant, he may nevertheless plead and rely on the general issue of “not guilty.”