ABOUT US
Ensuring qualified, resourced legal counsel for every Georgian — across every county, in every courtroom.
OUR MISSION
The Georgia Public Defender Council ensures that every person accused of a crime — regardless of income, background, or circumstance — has access to unwavering legal representation.
From rural courtrooms to metropolitan circuits, our network of over 400 attorneys provides the kind of defense that the Constitution demands: thorough, competent, and zealous advocacy for those who need it most.
OUR VALUES
Competent legal strategies and thorough case preparation — every client receives the most capable defense we can deliver.
The highest standards of integrity, honoring our professional obligations and the trust placed in us by our clients.
Swift action when it matters most. In legal defense, every moment counts.
Passionate, tireless advocacy — fighting for our clients' rights and the best possible outcomes.
OUR JOURNEY
The Beginning
House Bill 770 creates a unified statewide public defense system, replacing a fragmented county-by-county patchwork across 45 judicial circuits.
New Leadership
Omotayo Alli is appointed Executive Director by Governor Brian Kemp, becoming the first woman and first person of color to lead the agency.
Holistic Support
New programs providing holistic client support through social workers, mental health resources, and the Ladders reentry program — helping formerly incarcerated individuals earn their GED or trade certification, free of cost.
Historic Legislation
House Bill 1391 achieves the first-ever funding parity between public defenders and district attorneys in Georgia. New specialized and Gang/RICO units deploy traveling attorneys to serve legal deserts statewide.
Training & Growth
Annual flagship training event and a new leadership program with UGA's Carl Vinson Institute build the next generation of public defense leaders.
Accountability
A dedicated unit resolving client concerns, monitoring service quality, and ensuring public defense compliance across Georgia.