O.C.G.A. § 35-10-8

In addition to any other relief or sanction for a violation of Code Section 35-10-4 or 35-10-5, where the violation is willful, the local governing authority shall be entitled to collect a civil penalty in the amount of $500.00 for each violation. Further, when there is a finding of willful violation, the local governing authority shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney’s fees for bringing any action against the violator. The local governing authority shall be entitled to seek civil sanctions in the superior court in the county of residence of the violator.