Fellow GTLA Members,

Let me start off by thanking those of you who attended the 2012 GTLA Holiday Workshop here in Atlanta. We had a remarkable turnout, and I hope that you found the program and speakers to be as informative, insightful and thought provoking as I did. As you return to your law practices, it is our sincere hope that the ideas presented will be of great benefit as you continue to protect of the rights of your clients. 

I would be remiss if I also did not thank Justice David Nahmias for sharing his insight from the bench with us during the luncheon. Whether standing for a client before the court, petitioning for a writ of certiorari or simply submitting an amicus brief, I believe that we are all better equipped to pursue, uphold and protect civil justice for all Georgians while armed with the perspective Justice Nahmias shared. 

We will soon be fully immersed in the 2013 Legislative Session of the Georgia General Assembly. GTLA and the people of Georgia need each of you, now more than ever before, to stand against the well-funded and unfortunately coordinated attacks on our civil justice system. If you have not yet signed up for our Lawyer of the Day program, please do so today. There are  236 legislators under the Gold Dome who need to hear directly from you, their constituent, so it is never too late to reach out and say hello to your local lawmaker and let them know that you are here to help them when they need it. After all, what lawmaker doesn't need a good lawyer on his or her side?

The people and small businesses we represent do not have lobbyists and cannot make vast campaign contributions. They rely on us to protect the administration of justice, their rights and their day in court. We can never let them down, so let’s all get ready for a productive legislative session. 

Perhaps the best way to prepare for the coming challenges is to take stock of the benefits and blessings we all enjoy as trial lawyers. The Holidays are special to so many for us for so many different reasons. As we spend precious time with our family and friends over the coming weeks, let’s all be thankful for not just our own families, but the privilege we have in representing so many others in need. There is no greater gift than being blessed with the ability to give.  

I wish you and your families joy, peace, and Happy Holidays.

Jay Sadd

GTLA President