Am I eligible to become a GJP client?

If you are charged with a crime in Dekalb or Fulton County and cannot afford an attorney, you are eligible to apply to become a GJP client. Please note, however, that GJP DOES NOT take the following types of cases:

• Drug Trafficking
• Domestic Violence/Child Abuse
• Sex Crimes
• Vehicle violations/traffic citations
• Federal Cases
• Appeals

I am being sued and cannot afford a lawyer, will GJP represent me?

No. GJP only represents people who are being charged with a crime. There are other legal organizations in GA that represent clients who cannot otherwise afford a lawyer in civil cases.

I am a Fulton or Dekalb County resident but am being charged in another jurisdiction. Will GJP take my case?

No. Unfortunately, GJP can only accept cases that are being tried in Fulton or Dekalb County.

Are there other requirements for becoming a GJP client?

Yes. In addition to the legal criteria, we ask our clients to sign a contract that may mandate various social service and employment activities.

I meet all the requirements, how do I apply to become a GJP client?

If you meet all the requirements, you can contact us by phone, mail or in person to complete your initial interview. In this initial interview, a representative will ask you basic questions about the nature and status of your case. Please remember that this is only an initial interview, and completing this interview does not guarantee GJP will represent you in court.

What can I do if GJP does not accept my case?

If you cannot afford a lawyer, and GJP does not take your case, there may be other free resources available. Click here for a list of other legal resources in Georgia.

I do not know the status of my case, where can I get more information?

Once you have appeared in front of a judge for the first time (usually within 72 hours of the arrest), you can check the status of your case by contacting the Court Clerk. The number for Fulton County Superior Court is 404-730-5313, and the number for DeKalb County Superior Court is 404-371-2836. If you live in DeKalb County, you can also visit http://www.ojs.dekalbga.org to find out more information about your case.

I am in need of social services (housing, detox, food, etc.) where can I go?

There are many organizations in Georgia dedicated to providing free social services. The easiest way to find these resources is to access the United Way database. If you live in the metropolitan Atlanta area, you can dial 2-1-1 to speak to a trained United Way specialist who will help you locate free social services in your area. All phone calls are confidential. You can also search the Metropolitan Atlanta Database online at the following website at http://211online.unitedwayatlanta.org/.
If you live outside metropolitan Atlanta, visit http://national.unitedway.org/myuw/
and enter your zip code into the appropriate box to learn more about your local United Way Chapter.

How can I obtain a copy of my Georgia criminal history record?

Georgia criminal history records can be obtained from local Sheriff's or Police Departments. Please contact a local Georgia agency about specific requirements for obtaining a copy of your Georgia criminal history record.  Warning: If you have an outstanding warrant you may be arrested if you contact your local Sheriff’s Office.

How can I expunge my criminal history record?

Expungement is a process through which information about a charge will be sealed or erased from your criminal record in the eyes of the law. Expungement is normally not available for convictions, but may be available if the offense was not referred for prosecution or the case was dismissed prior to indictment. GJP does not provide expungement services, but an expungement information sheet is available upon request.