GPDF supports the activities of the Georgia Public Defender Council (GPDC), which include providing socially responsive resources for marginalized clients and promoting the professional growth of public defenders in Georgia through training and educational resources.
‘In The Trenches’ is a new video series, specifically designed to offer an in-depth exploration of the inner workings of the GPDC, encompassing its structure, initiatives, departments, and the individuals involved.
Released: April 24th, 2024
Enjoy this final episode featuring Circuit Public Defender of the Atlantic Circuit, Brandon Clark. Brandon shares what he loves most about being a public defender in Georgia and provides practical tips on communication and focus for case preparation. Brandon’s leadership ensures his team handles clients’ cases from start to finish with expertise!
A comprehensive overview of GPDC’s accomplishments since 2020.
The Georgia Public Defender Council (GPDC) has experienced significant budget increases post-pandemic, with its financial allocation reaching a record high of $108.3 million in the fiscal year 2024. This growth in budget is indicative of the organization’s expanding scope and capabilities.
Notably, state assistant public defenders have benefited from salary increments, receiving a 3% raise in 2021 and a further 6% in mid-2022. These adjustments have contributed to the elevation of the average salary for full-time attorneys to its highest level ever, a change largely attributed to the leadership and efforts of Director Alli.
In addition to these salary increases, all GPDC employees have received Cost of Living Adjustments (COLAs) totaling $7,000. This sum was distributed over a period spanning from April 2022 to July 2023, reflecting a commitment to maintaining staff well-being and financial stability.
Furthermore, in Fulton County, Circuit Public Defender Maurice Kenner has implemented significant salary raises for assistant public defenders. These raises, which vary between $43,000 and $53,000, were instituted following a comprehensive salary study initiated by Director Alli. This initiative underscores a broader trend within the GPDC of recognizing and rewarding the crucial work of public defenders, particularly in the context of the challenging post-pandemic environment.
Director Alli’s establishment of the Georgia Public Defense Foundation (GPDF) marks a significant step towards enhancing the public defense system in Georgia, with a focus on two primary objectives:
Additional Initiatives and Campaigns:
In The Trenches” Video Series: In July 2023, Director Alli introduced this series to shed light on the commitment and challenges faced by the Georgia Public Defender Council (GPDC). This series serves as a platform to increase awareness and understanding of the GPDC’s work.
2023 Social Media Launch: Recognizing the power of digital platforms, the GPDF launched social media accounts on sites like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Youtube and X (Twitter). These accounts focus on:
These efforts collectively enhance the effectiveness and reach of the GPDC, providing crucial support to both public defenders and their clients, and fostering a more responsive and competent public defense system in Georgia.
The Georgia Public Defender Council has made significant changes to improve its operations and compensation structures:
These changes by the GPDC represent a significant effort to improve the efficiency and fairness of the public defense system, ensuring better compensation for attorneys and more effective legal representation for clients.
HB 1391, endorsed by the Office of the Governor and the General Assembly, was unanimously passed in 2022. This legislation marks the first instance of funding equity between Circuit Public Defenders and District Attorneys in Georgia.
The Georgia Public Defender Council has made several strategic location and expansion decisions:
The Georgia Public Defender Council (GPDC) has introduced several new units and programs to enhance its legal services:
The Georgia Public Defender Council has enhanced its training and professional development initiatives in the following ways:
News from around the agency.
Explore career and internship opportunities at the Alcovy Judicial Circuit! Led by Circuit Public Defender Anthony Carter we proudly serve Newton and Walton Counties. Whether you're a recent law graduate or a current law student, join our team to kickstart your legal career.
Savor local arts at the Monroe-Walton Center for the Arts in Monroe County. Enjoy gallery shows, workshops, and more!
Learn more at buff.ly/3y0ksdC
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Now Streaming: Join us for the last episode of "In The Trenches: Our Call of Duty" with Brandon Clark, Circuit Public Defender of the Atlantic Circuit. Learn his strategies for focus and case preparation, and delve into why he cherishes serving as a public defender in Georgia! Watch here: buff.ly/4b5OUl0 #GPDC #PublicDefender #InTheTrenches #CallOfDuty ... See MoreSee Less
The Ladders Program is a way to transform your life as you exit the criminal justice system. By applying to our program, you're taking the first step to empowerment, education, and your best future. #RiseAbove #laddersprogram #careerdevelopment #secondchance ... See MoreSee Less
Happy Administrative Professionals Day! Today, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable dedication and expertise of all administrative professionals. Thank you for all that you do! 🌟 #AdminProfessionalsDay ... See MoreSee Less
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You have the right to an attorney! if you ever face criminal charges, seeking professional counsel is essential to safeguard your interests. #share to spread the word! #KnowYourRights #PublicDefender ... See MoreSee Less
Did You Know? Georgia is proud to be home to the nation’s oldest state park, Indian Springs State Park, established way back in 1825. A treasure of history and nature right in our backyard! #GeorgiaHistory #StateParks ... See MoreSee Less
Coming soon: the final episode of "Our Call of Duty" series on In The Trenches, featuring Brandon Clark, Circuit Public Defender of the Atlantic Circuit! Don't miss this his tips on focus and preparation for each case and hear what he loves most about being a public defender in Georgia!
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Start your week with a shift in perspective: see challenges as opportunities. Let's stay centered, intuitive, and creative. Here's to achieving our highest performance this week! #mondaymotivation ... See MoreSee Less