O.C.G.A. § 44-14-267: Time for filing defenses.

At any time prior to the sale or other final disposition of the property by the levying officer or petitioner as provided for under Code Section 44-14-236 but no later than 30 days after service as provided for under Code Section 44-14-265, the defendant may appear and file any legal or equitable defense or counterclaim to the petitioner’s claim for a writ of immediate possession. After the filing of such defense or counterclaim, a trial of any issue requiring a trial shall be had in accordance with the procedure prescribed for civil actions in courts of record.