Georgia Code Title 15. Courts § 15-11-220

(1) Consider the assessment required by Code Section 15-11-219 determination, and documentation made by the qualified individual in approving the placement;

(2) Determine whether the needs of the child can be met through placement in a foster family home or, if not, whether placement of the child in a qualified residential treatment program provides the most effective and appropriate level of care for the child in the least restrictive environment;

(3) Determine whether placement in a qualified residential treatment program is consistent with the short-term and long-term goals for the child, as specified in the permanency plan for the child;

(4) Determine whether it is in the best interest of the child to be placed in a qualified residential treatment program and whether, for that reason, it is not in the best interest of the child or the child's siblings to be placed together; and

(5) Approve or disapprove the qualified residential treatment program placement by entering written findings of fact on the record. Placement or a change of legal custody by the court outside DFCS shall relieve DFCS of further responsibility for a child adjudicated as a dependent child except for any provision of services ordered by the court to ensure the continuation of reunification services to such child's family when appropriate.