Friends, 

2018 is coming to a close, but before we toast to this year and ring in a new one, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on a tremendous year for our association and thank those who helped to make it happen! 

As most of you know, election years present their own set of challenges and opportunities, and we are proud to say that the 2018 Election Cycle was the most successful in our association’s history. From the overwhelming support for the Civil Justice PAC, resulting in more than $900,000 contributed to candidates and caucuses, to the election of 13 GTLA members to the General Assembly, 7 of whom were also elected to leadership positions within their chamber or caucus, it has been a record-breaking year. Support for our legislative efforts is one of our top priorities, especially as we prepare for the 2019 Legislative Session to begin in January, and we will keep you updated on the progress of all legislation affecting the Civil Justice System under the Gold Dome throughout the session!

2018 was also a successful year for the GTLA education program, once again selling out all of our major CLE events! In an attempt to always improve on the services that we offer to you, this year, the GTLA staff began recording all major CLE events and offering them for online streaming and CLE credit. Now, if you are unable to attend a workshop in person, you have the option to purchase streaming access to watch after the event in the comfort of your home or office! Click HERE to view current CLE streaming offerings and pricing options!

Finally, I want to mention the incredible work and generosity of everyone involved with the New Lawyers Division Secret Santa Program. GTLA members sponsored 139 foster children from across the state through the Georgia Department of Family and Chidren’s Services by providing gifts from their “wish lists,” and the results were truly heartwarming! I cannot say thank you enough to everyone who participated and made this effort so special—you all certainly made this holiday season a lot sweeter for some very special children!

Cheers to 2018, to a successful 2019, and to all of you, our members, for everything that you do for GTLA and for the Civil Justice System!

Best, 

Emily Hurt, GTLA Executive Director

Georgial Trial Lawyers Association