[Georgia] N.P. v. Georgia – U.S. Statement of Interest 

On March 13, 2015, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a Statement of Interest in a lawsuit challenging the deprivation of children’s right to meaningful representation in the Cordele Judicial Circuit of Georgia.

In upholding the constitutional necessity of youth defense specialization, the DOJ asserted, “The right to counsel means more than just a lawyer in name only. Justice systems must ensure that the right to counsel comprehends traditional markers of client advocacy and adequate structural support to ensure these traditional markers of representation are met. . . . Indeed, the unique qualities of youth demand special training, experience and skill for their advocates.”