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215 CHURCH STREET, STE 111

DECATUR, GA 30030

404-248-1777

GACDL 2025 Winter Seminar 

January 31 - February 1, 2025

Featuring 

Bryan Stevenson


Click here to register



Learn more about Bryan Stevenson and the work of the Equal Justice Initiative by clicking here


WELCOME TO GACDL!


Since 1974, the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers has been the most important organization for lawyers involved in the defense of the accused in Georgia. The largest memberfunded, statewide criminal defense organization in the country, GACDL is comprised of criminal defense lawyers, law school students, and fulltime criminal investigators who stand together in their commitment to safeguard the constitutional guarantees of fairness in the criminal legal system. GACDL makes its voice for fair and effective criminal justice heard in the courts, the legislature, and the community.


                                  JOIN GACDL                                                                               FIND A LAWYER                                                                       DONATE TO GCDLEF     


Upcoming events

Purpose of GACDL

  • To provide an appropriate state organization representing those lawyers who are actively engaged in the defense of criminal cases;
  • To resist proposed legislation or rules which would curtail such rights and to promote sound alternatives;
  • To promote educational activities to improve the skills and knowledge of lawyers engaged in the defense of criminal cases;
  • To improve the judicial system and to urge the selection and appointment to the bench of well-qualified and experienced lawyers;
  • To improve the correctional system and to seek more effective rehabilitation opportunities for those convicted of crimes;
  • To promote constant improvement in the administration of criminal justice.


Mission Statement of GACDL 

"To promote fairness and justice through membership education, services and support, public outreach, and a commitment to quality representation for all.” 


Values Statement of GACDL 

GACDL opposes racism and discrimination in all its forms. Our members strive to defend people in a way that preserves individual liberties and opposes unfair government oppression.


GACDL is a diverse community of defenders. There is no pledge or oath of beliefs, other than the common goal to advance our noble profession.

A member’s individual opinions should not jeopardize their membership.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE


Ashleigh Merchant

President 


 LISTSERVER



We love our volunteers! Check out the list of GACDL Committees, call a chairperson, and volunteer. It’s a great way to meet other members, and to grow into GACDL leadership. 



LEARN MORE

EDUCATION FOUNDATION



The Georgia Criminal Defense Lawyers Education Foundation "GCDLEF" (The Foundation) was formed in 2008 for the purpose of supporting three GACDL-sponsored educational programs, the Al Horn Scholarship, the Bill Daniel Trial Advocacy Program, and the Debra Blum Program.  


DONATE TO GCDLEF

ADVOCACY  



GACDL lobbyist Mazie Lynn Guertin and our dedicated Legislative Committee work tirelessly on the issues affecting you and your clients. Help support their crucial efforts! 



LEARN MORE

 INVOLVEMENT


We love our volunteers! Check out the list of GACDL Committees, call a chairperson, and volunteer. It’s a great way to meet other members, and to grow into GACDL leadership. 


LEARN MORE

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