Mission:
The Western Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office keeps the community safe by holding accountable those who commit crimes and cause harm; by providing services that protect and preserve the rights of victims and defendants; and by building and maintaining partnerships with other law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and government entities. After careful consideration
of the facts, the evidence, the circumstances, the law, and the desired outcome for a just resolution, we follow the principles of fair and just prosecution, balancing restorative justice practices with victims’ needs for justice and the community’s needs for offender accountability. Vision:
A community in which crime, suffering, and inequity are reduced; where there are just resolutions for both victims and defendants; and an office that is guided by the belief that every decision and action we make has long-lasting consequences. We pursue justice with diligence & dedication. We serve victims with care & compassion. We hold ourselves accountable & promote transparency. We lead the way forward to a safer & thriving community. Functions:
The Office of the District Attorney serves primarily as the prosecuting attorney in the Superior Court of Athens-Clarke and Oconee Counties. In Athens-Clarke County, the District Attorney is responsible for the prosecution of all criminal cases involving at least one felony charge. Additionally, there is a responsibility to pursue, when appropriate, certain civil actions such as RICO, drug, gambling, and bond forfeitures. The District Attorney also serves as the prosecuting attorney in the Juvenile Court in those instances when a child (less than 17 years of age) is accused of a delinquent and/or unruly act. In addition, the District Attorney represents the State of Georgia in the Georgia Supreme Court and Georgia Court of Appeals in those cases arising out of this jurisdiction. Lastly, the District Attorney’s Office handles preliminary hearings and special bond hearings in Magistrate Court, operates a Pretrial Diversion Program, and staffs three alternative courts – a Drug Court Program, Treatment and Accountability Court, and a Veteran’s Court.
