Governor Nathan Deal Receives 2015 Champion of Justice Award from the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association

Atlanta, GA – The Georgia Trial Lawyers Association is pleased to announce that Governor Nathan Deal has been named the recipient of the 2015 Champion of Justice Award. This award, which is given at the direction of the GTLA President, recognizes an individual’s tireless and often-historic work to advance the cause of justice in Georgia.

“On behalf of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association’s 2,000 members across the state, I’d like to congratulate Governor Nathan Deal on his receipt of this well-deserved honor,” remarked GTLA President Darren Penn. “Since taking office in 2011, Governor Deal has exhibited a unique understanding of the vital role that the justice system plays in our society. As a lawyer, a former judge and a proud father of a judge, he brings a perspective to the Governor’s Office that has guided him through many tough decisions affecting our state’s legal system.”

Governor Deal was recognized with the Champion of Justice Award at the GTLA Holiday Workshop at the St. Regis Hotel on Friday, December 11th. Past recipients have included Supreme Court Justice Carol Hunstein, Judge Anthony Alaimo and Judge Kathryn Tanksley, among others.

“Deservedly, Governor Deal received wide praise this year for signing House Bill 17 – the Hidden Predator Act – into law. Because of his support for this measure, our courthouse doors have been unlocked for victims of childhood sexual abuse. In addition, he has a strong track record of appointing highly-qualified judges to openings in our courts, has championed reforms to our criminal and juvenile justice systems and has extended protections to some of our state’s most vulnerable citizens, including our seniors,” continued Penn.

“In recognition of Governor Nathan Deal’s many accomplishments and his enduring support for a strong, cost-effective and accessible justice system – one that continues to honor and preserve the Constitutional Right to Trial by Jury – we are proud to present him with GTLA’s 2015 Champion of Justice Award.”