Best Civil Lawyer in Georgia
Nick Rodriguez Sturba
Civil Lawyer
Nick Rodriguez Sturba is a Litigation Attorney at Glenda Mitchell Law Firm. Nick was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina and moved to the United States at the age of 9. With the hardships Nick and his family faced, he found his passion helping those in need and dreamed of becoming an attorney. Nick graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in Political Science and a minor in Spanish. While attending the University of Georgia, Nick became a certified legal interpreter and worked as an interpreter providing services to 911 operators, doctors, attorneys, and insurance companies. After graduation, he went to pursue a law degree from Florida A&M University. While in law school, Nick received the book award in both Asylum Law and Employment Discrimination
He was also part of the Immigration Society and Young Lawyers Guild. During his last year of law school, Nick interned for the Orange County Juvenile Court and worked as a Guardian Ad Lidem, advocating for young children in foster care. Nick graduated law school in May 2020 and was sworn in as an attorney after passing the bar exam in December 2020. Nick is licensed to practice law in Georgia and handles workers compensation, personal injury cases, and criminal defense. Nick is also fluent in Spanish. During his spare time, Nick enjoys spending time with his wife Kyndal, his family, and his two dogs. He also enjoys traveling, playing soccer, and going to the gym.
Douglas B Chanco
Civil Lawyer
A litigator with record results. Legal commentator. Legal author. National legal education presenter. Elected bar association president. Civically minded citizen. This is Douglas Chanco.
Douglas Chanco is a second-generation litigation attorney who devotes his career to the pursuit of one goal: Helping people when they need it the most. To achieve this goal, Douglas chose to limit his practice to only representing individuals who were hurt by other people.
Douglas graduated from The Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice in merely two and a half years. He received his Juris Doctor from Florida Coastal School of Law, in Jacksonville, Florida and was selected as a Dean’s Scholar twice.
Douglas began his legal career by serving as an assistant solicitor general in the Fulton County State Court in Atlanta, Georgia. In this position, Douglas tried and successfully prosecuted numerous DUI and other criminal and traffic cases. After prosecuting people on behalf of Fulton County, Douglas worked as a criminal defense attorney to help those in need.
Douglas successfully defended people charged with criminal offenses in courts throughout Georgia and was elected to serve as president of the Forsyth County criminal defense bar. Further, he spent 3 years on the committee involved in overseeing indigent criminal representations to ensure justice was afforded to all citizens in the community.
In 2013, Douglas was admitted to the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College. This process involved a large pool of applicants and he was one of only fifty attorneys around the country selected. This program specializes in trial advocacy work and is attended and taught by the nation’s most successful trial lawyers.
Douglas’ legal work for people injured by no fault of their own is recognized in the community, as he is rated a SuperLawyer and AV status by Martindale Hubble. While litigation work is the majority of his practice, he’s also won appellate issues on behalf of clients, overturning trial court rules.
Douglas is admitted to the practice of law in Georgia, New York, North Carolina, and the territory of the United States Virgin Islands. He is also admitted to practice in Federal Court in those jurisdictions.
Doug Handles The Following Cases In Both State And Federal Courts
- Car Accidents
- Truck Accidents
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Negligent Security Incidents
- Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs Injuries
- Boating Under The Influence
- Injured Pedestrians
- Victims of Violent Crime
- Hurricane Damage
- Civil Litigation
Kevin J. Pratt
Civil Lawyer
Kevin Pratt focuses his practice on defending clients. By focusing on defense work, he has been able to develop and continues to develop the art of protecting the rights of defendants.
Kevin received his Juris Doctor degree from the University Of Georgia School Of Law in 2001, where he was a member of the University of Georgia Honor Court. He was also a Semi-finalist in the Richard B. Russell Moot Court Competition, and Semi-finalist in the Melvin J. England Mock Trial Competition. In addition to his law degree, Kevin received a Bachelor in Business Administration, Summa Cum Laude, in Accounting from Georgia State University. Although his undergraduate degree was from the Business School, Kevin was simultaneously awarded Advanced Writing Honors from the University’s School of Arts and Sciences. After law school Kevin was offered and accepted a position teaching Intro to American Law at Georgia State University where he taught for several years while actively practicing law.
Kevin is licensed to practice before the Georgia Supreme Court, the Georgia Court of Appeals, United States Federal District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, and the United States Supreme Court. He is a member in Good Standing of the State Bar of Georgia. Although he defends all types of cases, Kevin’s degree in Accounting, as well as the fact that he has passed the Georgia CPA exam, makes him exceptionally qualified to defend clients against allegations involving money, accounting, and business practices.
AREAS OF PRACTICE
- 40% Civil Defense
- 40% Criminal Defense
- 10% Bankruptcy
- 10% Other
LITIGATION PERCENTAGE
- 90% of Practice Devoted to Litigation
BAR ADMISSIONS
- Georgia Court of Appeals
- Supreme Court of Georgia
- U.S. District Court Northern District of Georgia
- U.S. Supreme Court
EDUCATION
- University of Georgia School of Law, Athens, Georgia
- Juris Doctor – 2001
- Honors: University of Georgia Honor Court, Member
- Honors: Semi-finalist in the Richard B. Russell Moot Court Competition
- Honors: Semi-finalist in the Melvin J. England Mock Trial Competition
- Georgia State, Atlanta
- BBA summa cum laude – 1999
- Honors: Summa, Advanced Honors, 3.91, Georgia State School of Arts and Sciences
- Major: Accounting
CLASSES/SEMINARS
- Lecturer, Legal Studies at Georgia State University
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS AND MEMBERSHIPS
- State Bar of Georgia, Member
LANGUAGES
- English
- Farsi
Joseph A. Conoscienti
Civil Lawyer
Mr. Conoscienti specializes in criminal law but likewise has experience in general civil trial practice.After graduating High School, Joseph A. Conoscienti joined the United States Air Force where he achieved the rank of Sergeant. After receiving an honorable discharge in 1968, Mr. Conoscienti attended Montclair State University in Montclair, New Jersey where he received a Bachelor of Arts. After finishing his undergraduate degree, Mr. Conoscienti attended the Potomac School of Law, where he received Juris Doctorate degree in 1980. Joseph was admitted to the Georgia Bar in 1981. In January 2013, Mr. Conoscienti joined forces with J. Blake Ledbetter forming Conoscienti & Ledbetter, LLC.
Joseph Conoscienti is licensed to practice in the Georgia State and Superior Courts, the Georgia Court of Appeals, the Georgia Supreme Court, the United Sates District Court for the Northern District of Georgia and the 11th Circuit United States Court of Appeals. Mr. Conoscienti is a part-time Associate Judge for the Municipality of Avonndale Estates, Georgia.
Joe’s Practice Focus
Drug Distribution and Possession, Aggravated Assault, Stalking, Robbery/Burglary, Vehicular Homicide, Homicide, White Collar Crimes.
Driving Under the Influence, Drug Possession, Theft, Burglary and Shoplifting, Juvenile Crimes, Assault and Battery, Traffic Violations, Probation Violations.
Drug Crimes
Assault & Battery
DUI
Tanya Jeffords
Civil Lawyer
Tanya D. Jeffords is a successful trial lawyer who protects and defends her clients in the areas of criminal law, family law, employment and labor law, personal injury law, and civil rights litigation. Her motto for success is Preparation and the Power of Prayer. She earned her undergraduate degree from Augusta State University and her Juris Doctorate from Mercer University, Walter F. George School of Law in 2001. She is licensed to practice law in both Georgia and South Carolina. Mrs. Jeffords believes in helping her clients and their families to find solutions to their problems within the judicial system by way of fierce and caring advocacy. Some clients have nicknamed her the “Tiger”.
She was a federal judicial law clerk for the United States District Court for the Middle District of Georgia, where she handled complex civil litigation cases and those involving employment discrimination. She returned to Augusta and practiced in the Fulcher Hagler Law Firm where she worked in litigation, concentrating on railroad defense, insurance defense, and employment and labor law. She has tried both civil and criminal cases, gaining most of her trial experience while working as a public defender in the Augusta Judicial Circuit.
Mrs. Jeffords has successfully argued before the Supreme Court of Georgia and was named one of the Top Young Attorneys in Georgia by Georgia Super Lawyers Magazine in 2011. She was named one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers in 2012. She was instrumental in developing the process for the Augusta Judicial Circuit Drug Court program and is the defense lawyer for Drug Court. In 2013, she received the State Hero Award from the Judicial Council and Administrative Office of the Courts for outstanding service to the accountability courts of Georgia. In 2015, she was named one of the Top 100 National Black Lawyers.
She is a Fellow with the State Bar of Georgia. She is a member of the Georgia Trial Lawyer’s Association, National Trial Lawyers, Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Augusta Bar Association, Family Law Section of the Augusta Bar Association, Augusta Conference of African American Attorneys (ACAAA), Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys (GABWA), Georgia Association of Women Lawyers, National Association of Drug Court Professionals, and the South Carolina Bar Association. She is a member of the Augusta Chapter of the Links, Inc., Platinum Minds and the Kiwanis Club.
Mrs. Tanya Jeffords is a Christian. She is married to William R. Jeffords, III. They have two children and run the non-profit corporation Dream Builders of America’s Youth Inc.
Areas Of Practice
- Civil Rights Violations
- Criminal Law and Appeals
- Employment and Labor Law
- Personal Injury (Auto accidents, Elder abuse & nursing home negligence, Wrongful death)
Brandon Hornsby
Civil Lawyer
For almost two decades, Brandon Hornsby has dedicated his legal career to protecting the rights of people.Known as a “fearless advocate” and “champion of the underdog,” Atlanta lawyer Brandon Hornsby has extensive experience representing the victims of serious personal injury, civil rights violations, and whistleblowers.
More than anything else, Hornsby is known for getting results.
Some of his career highlights include:
- Serving as lead counsel in over 100 jury trials
- Certification as a Multi-Million Dollar Advocate based on his achievement of multiple multi-million dollar personal injury recoveries for his clients
- Securing the largest medical malpractice verdict in the history of Fayette County, Georgia
- Exonerating former University of Georgia Dean John Soloski who was falsely accused of sexual harassment by his university in Athens, Georgia
- Representing sheriff’s deputy Cynthia Hall, who was brutally attacked and left with a brain injury during the 2005 Atlanta Courthouse Shootings in Atlanta, Georgia
- Representing John and the late Patsy Ramsey, who were falsely accused of murdering their daughter, JonBenét Ramsey in Bolder, Colorado
- Representing the late Richard Jewell, the Olympic security guard who was wrongfully accused of planting a pipe bomb during the 1996 Centennial Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia
At the outset of his career, Hornsby served as a state and federal prosecutor. Hornsby quickly developed a reputation for excellence in the courtroom, particularly his examination of witnesses and his moving opening and closing arguments.
During his public service, in which Hornsby handled many of Atlanta’s highest profile murder cases, he never lost a murder case. He also became the youngest attorney in Georgia history to be named Georgia’s Assistant District Attorney of the Year.
Since entering private practice, Hornsby has developed a history of fighting for the rights of a wide range of clients, all of whom are united in their status as the underdog:
- Victims who experience serious personal injury and medical neglect
- Citizens who suffer civil rights violations through discrimination, retaliation, or government misconduct
- Whistleblowers who put their careers on the line to bravely expose corruption
Hornsby has been recognized as one of Georgia’s top 100 trial attorneys, one of Georgia’s 40 rising stars under 40 years-of-age by Georgia Trend Magazine and selected by the Fulton County Daily Report as one of Georgia’s top 10 lawyers on the rise. As a result of his courtroom success, Hornsby has been featured as a legal expert on numerous television programs including Atlanta’s NBC, ABC and CBS affiliates, as well as CNN, ESPN, Court TV and National Public Radio.
Profiled by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Hornsby has been described as a dedicated and tenacious advocate for victims whose courtroom skills make onlookers “want to cheer.” Hornsby’s trial work was described as “restoring faith” by the Clayton News Daily and “commendable” by the Albany Herald. When asked about the inspiring nature of his advocacy, a former client of Hornsby’s explained: Brandon “gave me a hand up off my knees in a time of great spiritual doubt and allowed me to stand up for my rights and convictions.”
M. DEVLIN COOPER
Civil Lawyer
Devlin is a graduate of the George Mason University School of Law in Arlington, Virginia, where he completed the Regulatory Law Specialty Track of study. After law school, Devlin clerked for the Honorable Lamar W. Sizemore, Jr. and the Honorable Tilman E. Self, III, of the Superior Courts of Georgia, Macon Judicial Circuit.
Our Macon attorney primarily concentrates his practice in the areas of eminent domain law, business litigation, probate litigation, and other corporate law. He has extensive jury trial experience, having tried more than fifteen cases to verdict before juries throughout the State of Georgia.
Devlin is a native of Milledgeville, Georgia, and graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Georgia College in 2002. During his final semester at Georgia College, Devlin interned for Attorney General Edwin Meese, III in the Center for Legal and Judicial Studies at The Heritage Foundation in Washington, D.C.Georgia Attorney General Samuel S. Olens appointed Devlin to serve as a Special Assistant Attorney General in 2013, and in that capacity, Devlin represents the Georgia Department of Transportation in real estate matters and eminent domain/condemnation law proceedings. Devlin was also elected Secretary/Treasurer of the Eminent Domain Section of the State Bar of Georgia for 2017.
Ultimately, a trial attorney is judged by the results that they achieve and how many cases they try. Devlin has the experience and reputation to allow him to resolve many cases without needing a trial. Devlin is both an efficient and aggressive litigator, which allows him to place his clients in a favorable position to resolve their matters via settlement or trial.
Education:
George Mason University School of Law
- Juris Doctor, 2005
- Honors: 2004 Scott C. Whitney Writing Prize Recipient
- Honors: Senator Leroy S. Bendheim Scholarship Recipient
Georgia College & State University
- B.S., Economics, Summa Cum Laude, 2002
- Honors: Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society
- Honors: Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society for Business Students
- Honors: Omicron Delta Epsilon Honor Society for Economics
- Honors: Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Honor Society
- Honors: Outstanding Departmental Major, Economics, 2002
Awards:
- AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell
- Listed in Georgia Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in the area of Eminent Domain, 2016
- Boy Scouts of America Silver Beaver Award
- Order of the Arrow Distinguished Service Award
- Eagle Scout
- Recognized by the Pro Bono Resource Center of the State Bar of Georgia as a Pro Bono All-Star for 2016
Reported Cases
- Lue v. Eady, 297 Ga. 321, 297 S.E.2d 679 (2015).
- Toler v. Georgia Dep’t of Transp., 328 Ga. App. 144, 761 S.E.2d 550 (2014).
- Aflac, Inc. v. SDT Air, LLC, 978 F.Supp.2d 1304 (M.D. Ga. 2013).
- Spencer Franchise Svcs. of Ga., Inc. v. WOW Café and Wingery Franchising Account, LLC, 2013 WL 1296507 (M.D. Ga. 2013).
- Power Guardian, LLC v. Directional Energy Corp., 904 F.Supp.2d 1313 (M.D. Ga. 2012).
- Cartwright v. Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc., 312 Ga. App. 890, 720 S.E.2d 200 (2011).
KATHLEEN S. GRANTHAM
Civil Lawyer
Kathleen Grantham graduated from the Mercer University, Walter F. George School of Law, in Macon, Georgia in June 1980 passing the bar and becoming licensed a few days later. She has remained a member of the bar in good standing since that time.
Ms. Grantham was a partner in a local law firm in the early 1980’s before establishing her own firm in 1983.
Early in her practice Ms. Grantham handled cases in all areas of law developing a solid client base and expertise in many areas. In recent years Ms. Grantham has confined her practice to financial planning, bankruptcy, debt relief, estate planning, probate matters, personal injury, workers’ compensation and wrongful death cases. Although she will accept uncontested domestic cases she will no longer litigate these matters.
Ms. Grantham is considered an expert in matters relating to bankruptcy law. In order to stay current in that area of the law she attends several seminars each year, employs a full time bankruptcy clerk and uses the most up to date software available. She has testified several times as an expert in the field and advises and consults with other attorneys who approach her with questions and problems, which arise in their practice concerning bankruptcy.
Currently, the firm is accepting cases dealing with bankruptcy, personal injury, debt relief counseling, uncontested divorces, family law, estate planning, probate matters, workers’ compensation and wrongful death.
Ms. Grantham is a skilled legal negotiator, who strives to provide the best outcome for each particular case. She works through negotiations and mediations to compromise or to litigation, if necessary, to obtain the most favorable result possible for her clients.
Grantham Law Office serves clients in the middle Georgia area including the following counties: Baldwin, Ben Hill, Bibb, Bleckley, Butts, Crawford, Crisp, Dooly, Hancock, Houston, Jasper, Jones, Lamar, Macon, Monroe, Peach, Pulaski, Putnam, Twiggs, Upson, Washington, Wilcox, Wilkinson.
The following list provides a brief overview of our practice areas.
BANKRUPTCY – The Law Office of Kathleen Grantham represent individuals and businesses in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 proceedings. The most important thing anyone contemplating bankruptcy can do is schedule an appointment with an expert to analyze his or her financial affairs. Bankruptcy may or may not be the answer, but there are other options. Kathleen Grantham offers a completely free consultation to analyze your finances. There is absolutely no obligation on your part to hire the firm after this appointment. You will receive a wealth of expert advice to aid you in making an informed decision concerning your finances. You will meet with the attorney during your free consultation. Payment plans are available for both types of bankruptcy and are explained in detail in your free consultation.
DEBTOR RELIEF – There are many options for debt relief such as Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Bankruptcy is a federal law provided to you designed to get you a fresh start free from harassing creditor phone calls, lawsuits, repossessions and garnishments. It is a privilege granted to you under the United States Constitution. It forces your creditors to permanently wipe out your debts (Chapter 7) or to accept a repayment plan, which you have proposed (Chapter 13). Please give our office a call to schedule a free consultation to discuss your individualized needs.
DIVORCE – There are thirteen grounds for divorce in the State of Georgia. However, most divorces are granted on the single ground that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” It is not necessary to show any wrongdoing or fault, commonly known as a “no-fault” divorce. There is a six-month residency requirement for filing for a divorce in Georgia. No legal separation period is required. A Final Decree of Divorce will not be granted until all parties have resolved all legal issues by settlement or trial, including child custody, support, visitation, and other financial issues such as division of assets and liabilities. Our office only handles divorce cases that do not involve any children and that are uncontested. Uncontested means that all of the issues are worked out and both parties are in full agreement of the divorce. To schedule a free consultation to discuss your uncontested divorce, please give our office a call.
PROBATE AND ESTATE ADMINISTRATION – Our firm specializes in probate and estate administration. Probate is the legal process by which a person’s debts are paid and assets are distributed upon her/his death. Estate Administration includes the probate process as well as non-probate transfers of the deceased’s assets. Individual state laws direct the probate court how to distribute the deceased’s estate. State laws and procedures vary greatly, so, it is important to consult a firm with expertise in this area of the law to ensure that the deceased’s assets are distributed correctly. Give our office a call to schedule your free consultation.
WILLS AND ESTATE PLANNING – Our firm offers inexpensive expert advice concerning your estate. We have set affordable prices for wills and living wills. Please call for a free consultation.
Peach State Justice: Why You Need a Top Civil Lawyer in Georgia
Georgia’s charm, from the bustling streets of Atlanta to the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, can also be the backdrop for complex legal issues. If you’re facing a civil lawsuit, navigating the legal system can feel like navigating the intricate pathways of a peach orchard – demanding a skilled guide and knowledge of the terrain. Here’s why securing a top-notch civil lawyer in Georgia is crucial for protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome:
1. Untangling the Web of Georgia Civil Law:
Civil law covers a broad spectrum of legal issues, from contract disputes to personal injury claims. A skilled civil lawyer in Georgia possesses in-depth knowledge of:
- Applicable Statutes and Regulations: They can meticulously analyze your case within the framework of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) and relevant court rulings, ensuring your case aligns with legal principles specific to the state.
- Legal Expertise: Their deep understanding of Georgia civil law allows them to provide accurate legal advice and effectively represent your interests throughout the legal process.
2. Experienced Navigator of the Georgia Court System:
The legal system can be a labyrinth:
- Procedural Expertise: A skilled civil lawyer will have experience handling complex legal procedures, including drafting legal documents, gathering evidence, and navigating the intricacies of the Georgia court system. They’ll ensure your case is properly prepared and presented according to established procedures.
3. Championing Your Rights in Georgia Courts:
A skilled civil lawyer is your advocate in the courtroom:
- Protecting Your Interests: They will work diligently to protect your legal rights and advocate on your behalf. This includes analyzing your case details, identifying potential legal issues, and developing a strategic approach to achieve the best possible outcome. (GA.gov)
4. Negotiation and Settlement: Reaching an Agreement:
Not all battles need to be fought in court:
- Skilled Negotiation: Many civil cases can be resolved through negotiation and settlement outside of the courtroom. Having a skilled civil lawyer by your side can help you negotiate with the opposing party or their legal representative to reach a fair settlement that reflects your interests.
5. Powerful Representation in the Courtroom:
When litigation is necessary:
- Trial-Ready Representation: In situations where your case goes to trial, having a knowledgeable civil lawyer with courtroom experience is crucial. They will effectively present your case to the court, cross-examine witnesses, present evidence, and make persuasive arguments on your behalf.
6. Legal Guidance and Support Throughout Your Journey:
- Understanding Your Options: Dealing with a civil legal matter can be stressful. A skilled civil lawyer will provide you with guidance and support throughout the process, explaining your legal rights, options, and potential outcomes. They can answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide you with the confidence and peace of mind you need to navigate this challenging time.