GTLA is a marvelous outlet for contributing to the greater good, both as a lawyer and as a good citizen. Through our organization and in our everyday practice of law, we have a chance to make a positive difference for all Georgians. No other organization or membership is more relevant to our daily lives than GTLA. While many of us are devoted to our families and place of worship, in terms of time spent, nothing competes with the devotion we have here on earth to the practice of law and to protecting the rights of our clients. It is perfectly compatible with our beliefs to oppose industries and lobbyists when they devalue human life by "capping" it. When industries and lobbyists try to "reform" tort law and civil justice only because it will make them more profitable, we must stand tall together to fight for true justice. GTLA is our outlet to do this, and it is our responsibility to engage.

This legislative session we will again face a myriad of challenges. There will be an effort to cap damages in all cases; to limit insurers' responsibility to fairly address claims; and to dramatically reduce the rights of injured Georgians under our workers' compensation system. Together, we can become politically active by contributing to the Civil Justice PAC. The PAC allows us to contribute to legislators broadly. However, the PAC is limited to $2,500 per contribution. For this reason, GTLA has established a Directed Giving program so that we can contribute more significantly to legislators who understand and can advocate for a fair judicial system in the face of ever present lobbying by those who oppose basic democratic freedoms. Thank you to many who have committed so much to these efforts. To those who have yet to fully engage, think more about what you stand for everyday in your law practice and life, and sincerely reconsider your level of commitment to your clients and the public as a whole. It is here with your fellow members at GTLA where you can really make a difference. Embrace the opportunity with open arms and all your might.

It is our responsibility to use GTLA as the vehicle for the greater good that it truly is. Your organization is in place, it is now time for all of us to work together to make sure that justice prevails, not just for our own clients with whom we shake hands to protect, but for all citizens in our state. Please don’t wait for others to do what we all have an obligation to accomplish together. GTLA needs everybody, everywhere, all the time to fulfill our duty to keep the courthouse open for all.


Sincerely,

Jay Sadd
GTLA President