Georgia Public Defender Council

The Georgia Public Defender Council’s Leadership Academy has officially launched its second cohort! This nine-month program, in partnership with the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government, is designed to equip our attorneys with the skills and training to become future leaders in public defense. Through leadership development, strategic communication, and collaboration, these attorneys are empowered to drive innovation and create lasting impact for their clients and communities. Learn more about how this program is shaping the next generation of public defender leaders: https://buff.ly/4gvrRUe #PublicDefenders #GPDC #LeadershipAcademy

At Georgia Public Defenders Council, we aim to empower and bridge the gap between communities through knowledge. Catia De Los Santos and the Social Services Department hosted an enlightening session highlighting working with, fostering, and building up juveniles. Senior Staff Attorney Danielle Simpson from the Youth Advocacy Division shared some of her valuable experiences from working with the youth and offered very insightful tips for those navigating similar cases. Sessions like these help bridge the gap between differing communities both focused on justice and rehabilitation. Watch the full video here: https://buff.ly/3XFYgPw #GPDC #LegalEducation #YouthEmpowerment

Last week marked the official kickoff of the 2024-2025 GPDC Leadership Academy in Augusta, starting with a special welcome dinner. Attendees were inspired by speeches from agency leaders including Executive Director Omotayo Alli, Chief Legal Officer Natalie Glaser, Augusta Circuit Public Defender Rahmaan Bowick, former Augusta Circuit Public Defender Kate Mason, and Leadership Academy alumnus John Wilson. It was a fantastic start for what’s shaping up to be our biggest and best class yet! The session, led by UGA Carl Vinson Institute of Government, spanned two engaging days filled with interactive activities focused on sharpening leadership communication skills and fostering impactful connections. Our guest presenter, Piedmont Circuit Public Defender Donna Seagraves, spoke about "The Role of the Circuit Public Defender” tracing the agency’s journey from its inception to today. Her wealth of experience set the tone for our future public defender leaders! The GPDC Leadership Academy offers comprehensive training for public defenders to enhance their leadership skills. The program, led by experts from the UGA Carl Vinson Institute of Government @UGA Carl Vinson Institute of Government (CVIOG), combines theory and practical workshops on strategic thinking, communication, decision-making, conflict resolution, and more. Participants engage in interactive exercises, case studies, and a capstone project, developing skills to lead teams, drive innovation, and effect positive change. Graduates gain the confidence and competence to assume leadership roles or influence their communities. #LeadershipAcademy #ProfessionalDevelopment #PublicDefense

This week marked the official kickoff of the 2024-2025 GPDC Leadership Academy in Augusta, starting with a special welcome dinner. Attendees were inspired by speeches from agency leaders including Executive Director Omotayo Alli, Chief Legal Officer Natalie Glaser, Augusta Circuit Public Defender Rahmaan Bowick, former Augusta Circuit Public Defender Kate Mason, and Leadership Academy alumnus John Wilson. It was a fantastic start for what’s shaping up to be our biggest and best class yet! The session, led by UGA’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government, spanned two engaging days filled with interactive activities focused on sharpening leadership communication skills and fostering impactful connections. Our guest presenter, Piedmont Circuit Public Defender Donna Seagraves, spoke about "The Role of the Circuit Public Defender” tracing the agency’s journey from its inception to today. Her wealth of experience set the tone for our future public defender leaders! The GPDC Leadership Academy offers comprehensive training for public defenders to enhance their leadership skills. The program, led by experts from the Carl Vinson Institute of Government (CVIOG), combines theory and practical workshops on strategic thinking, communication, decision-making, conflict resolution, and more. Participants engage in interactive exercises, case studies, and a capstone project, developing skills to lead teams, drive innovation, and effect positive change. Graduates gain the confidence and competence to assume leadership roles or influence their communities. #LeadershipAcademy #ProfessionalDevelopment #PublicDefense

The Georgia Public Defense Foundation strengthens justice by supporting the Georgia Public Defender Council (GPDC). We are committed to the professional growth and development of public defenders and champion community rehabilitation efforts like the Ladders Program to foster positive change and resilience within our communities. Help us break the cycle of court involvement. Donate today: buff.ly/3qFM5p5. #SupportPublicDefenders #CommunityRehabilitation #DonateNow

In Case You Missed It! 📢 Check out Joshua Miller's inspiring testimonial from the Ladders Program! Joshua's journey showcases how the program provides essential tools, skills, and support to help young individuals turn their aspirations into reality. He went from feeling uncertain to becoming a mentor and now works as a supervisor at Grady Hospital. 👉 Watch the full video here: https://buff.ly/4coFbq1 His story is a testament to the life-changing impact of the Ladders Program. Don't miss it! #Mentoriship #Success #SecondChances

Newly appointed Alapaha Circuit Public Defender, Gabriel Cason, is leading the charge in south central Georgia. Covering multiple counties, this circuit plays a crucial role in our justice system. Explore all 44 judicial circuits with our 'Find Your Public Defender' tool: https://buff.ly/3KvqBRO #GPDC #PublicDefender #Georgia #Alapaha

Brian Steel, the powerhouse defense attorney, brought his A-game to #JusticeJam2024. Key takeaways: Navigating high-profile cases Strategies for complex legal challenges Insights from notable trials Steel's dedication to public defense left us inspired and better equipped. What was your favorite moment from his talk? Share below! 👇 #JusticeJam2024 #PublicDefense #LegalEducation

We were honored to have Justice Shawn LaGrua of the Georgia Supreme Court as our keynote speaker, sharing invaluable insights on the evolving landscape of criminal justice. These discussions reinforce our commitment to justice and equity in Georgia's legal system. Thank you to all attendees and speakers for making this a truly impactful event! #JusticeJam2024 #PublicDefense #LegalEducation

Our keynote speaker, Summer Jelinek, delivered a powerful address on empowerment and leadership in public defense. Her insights on driving extraordinary results resonated deeply with our attendees. Jelinek’s generosity extended beyond her words—each attendee received a copy of her book, "Unlocking the Magic of Leadership." Thank you, Summer, for enriching our conference and our libraries! #JusticeJam2024 #PublicDefense #LegalEducation