A summary of Georgia laws relating to weapons and conduct that impact workplace violence.
It is unlawful to carry a concealed weapon on one's person, except in one's home, motor vehicle or place of business, without a license. Carrying weapons openly or fully exposed without a license is not unlawful.
Concealed weapons, carried with a valid license, may be carried only in a shoulder holster, waist belt holster or any other holster, hip grip or similar device. A person's clothing, handbag, purse, attache case, briefcase or other type of closed container may conceal a weapon that is properly carried. Firearms may be transported in an enclosed case, unloaded and separated from their ammunition.
A person licensed to carry a handgun in another state that recognizes a Georgia license to carry a concealed weapon is authorized to carry a handgun in Georgia, but only while that person is not a Georgia resident. Handguns carried by nonresidents must still be carried in compliance with Georgia law.
A person who uses threats or force in defense of self or others, or in defense of property other than a habitation, has no duty to retreat and has the right to stand his or her ground and use force, including deadly force.
A person who uses threats or force for these types of defense is immune from criminal prosecution unless in the use of deadly force, the person utilizes a weapon the carrying or possession of which is unlawful by such person under Georgia law.
In addition, a person who is justified in threatening or using force against another has no duty to retreat from the use of such force and is not held liable to the person against whom the use of force was justified or to any person acting as an accomplice or assistant to such person in any civil action brought as a result of the threat or use of such force.