Youth Advocacy Division
Enhancing Futures for Young People Impacted by the Criminal Justice System.
About YAD
The Youth Advocacy Division (YAD) is dedicated to improving outcomes for youth exposed to the criminal justice system.
We focus on providing immediate, competent, and dedicated legal representation to every accused youth.
Our Commitment
Addressing Statewide Resource Disparities: We conduct comprehensive inquiries into the disparities that exist in under-resourced counties, aiming to ensure every youth has access to quality defense.
Competent and Dedicated Legal Advocacy: We are committed to the prompt appointment of competent and zealous counsel for every youth, ensuring their rights are vigorously defended.
Dynamic and Constructive Partnerships: By partnering with other defense and advocacy organizations, we strive to raise the level of youth defense practice throughout Georgia.
Recruitment of Youth Advocates: YAD promotes youth advocacy as a career-long, specialized area of criminal defense, appealing to dedicated professionals eager to make a difference.
Statewide Training and Support: We offer regular and robust training and certificate programs for youth advocates to enhance their skills and effectiveness in representing young clients.
“The YAD marks a significant improvement in our ability to safeguard the voices, rights, and potential of all Georgians.”
Manager Spotlight
Alfonso Kraft, Managing Attorney, YAD
Alfonso Kraft, originally from Louisville, Kentucky, holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and an MBA from the University of Kentucky. After earning his law degree from Georgia State University in 2007, he began his career in Clayton County at Lister & Holt, handling misdemeanor cases. He soon transitioned to the Clayton County Public Defender’s office, where he managed felony cases for nine years. In 2018, Kraft served as Chief Solicitor for Troup County Juvenile Court, before rejoining the Georgia Public Defender system. He has worked in various capacities, including as an appellate attorney and as the Circuit Public Defender for Clayton County. Kraft joined the Youth Advocacy Division as the Managing Attorney, bringing extensive experience in juvenile and criminal defense.
