WHO WE ARE

Georgia's Public Defense Agency

The Georgia Public Defender Council (GPDC) is the statewide agency responsible for ensuring that every Georgian accused of a crime has access to qualified legal counsel. We oversee public defense across 154 counties through 45 circuit offices staffed by more than 400 licensed attorneys.

From felony trials and appeals to juvenile defense and mental health advocacy, GPDC's specialized divisions handle approximately 85% of all criminal cases in the state. Our work protects the constitutional right to counsel and strengthens the integrity of Georgia's justice system.

GPDC professionals in discussion

OUR HISTORY

Over the Years

2003

The Georgia Indigent Defense Act

House Bill 770 creates the Georgia Public Defender Standards Council, replacing a fragmented county-by-county system with a unified statewide public defense agency. Championed by Chief Justice Norman S. Fletcher, the landmark legislation reorganizes indigent defense across 49 judicial circuits.

2020

A New Era of Growth

Omotayo Alli is appointed Executive Director by Governor Brian Kemp, becoming the first woman and first person of color to lead the agency. Under her leadership, GPDC navigates the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, achieves historic pay parity between public defenders and district attorneys, and launches a bold investment in social services and youth programs—including the Ladders Reentry Program—to break the cycle of recidivism.

OUR VALUES

Foundational Principles

Effective

We employ competent legal strategies and thorough case preparation to provide the most effective defense for every client.

Ethical

We maintain the highest standards of integrity, honoring our professional obligations and the trust placed in us by our clients.

Timely

We respond promptly to our clients' needs, understanding that swift action is often critical in legal matters.

Zealous

We advocate passionately for our clients, fighting tirelessly to protect their rights and achieve the best possible outcomes.

85%
of Criminal Cases
400+
Licensed Attorneys
45
Circuit Offices
20+
Years Serving Georgia
154
Counties Covered

GET INVOLVED

How Can We Help?

Find Your Defender

Locate the public defender office serving your county and learn how to apply for representation.

Find My Office

Join Our Team

Build a meaningful career in public defense. We're hiring attorneys, investigators, and support staff statewide.

View Careers

Get in Touch

Have questions about GPDC, our programs, or public defense in Georgia? We'd love to hear from you.

Contact Us