privileged to leverage my legal skills to advocate for a democracy that works for all . Through such opportunities , I have embraced the well-taken mantra that the work of protecting our democracy is never complete .
The Reality We Face
Since the aftermath of the 2020 election , the Georgia election law landscape has been reshaped through legislation , rulemaking , and the recomposition of administrative bodies in counties around the state . The 2024 election will operate under different rules and procedures than those used in previous Georgia elections . Many courts have opined on the consequences of these changes over the last four years , with both Republican and Democratic judicial appointees identifying a growing list of constitutional violations , unlawful policies , and suppressive tactics that disenfranchise eligible Georgia voters . Although court order after order has exposed flaws in our system , the fundamental right to vote in Georgia remains under attack .
Even as voting has begun around the state , the legal landscape continues to shift rapidly , with courts deciding critical issues like the enforceability of last-minute rules passed by Georgia ’ s State Election Board and the duty of county election officials to certify election results . As lawyers , we know too well that the clarity of court rulings can be fleeting . New legal challenges and appeals threaten to reinvite uncertainty when election officials are already inundated with responsibilities to ensure free and fair elections .
up for democracy . We , as lawyers , can challenge unjust laws and policies , advocate for the rights of Georgia voters , and defend vulnerable election workers who have become targets of election conspiracies . We can volunteer as poll watchers or offer voters and election personnel post-election support . The Election Official Legal Defense Network ( eoldn . org ) is a nonpartisan organization that connects election officials needing legal assistance with pro bono counsel . Additionally , the ABA Task Force on Democracy ( https :// www . americanbar . org / groups / public _ interest / election _ law / american-democracy /), committed to denouncing and preventing anti-democratic practices , offers volunteer opportunities that can be tackled in as little as five minutes , as well as more intensive activities for those capable of contributing additional time to the cause .
We have the skills , platform , and power to protect the foundational tenets of democracy . When we act in concert , amplifying our collective expertise and voice , we can make a meaningful difference . Let ’ s rise to this moment . Georgia ’ s future will be shaped by what we as lawyers do — or fail to do — now .
Under the unprecedented pressures facing voters and election workers this cycle , lawyers have a distinct and essential role in ensuring that the right to vote in Georgia is protected and that the outcome of the 2024 election reflects the will of voters . We are more than just advocates for our clients ; we have a unique ability to protect justice and equality in voting . We are privileged with law degrees , and with that privilege comes an obligation to stand up , speak out , and ensure that democracy does not falter under the weight of misinformation and malfeasance . When democracy is on the line , it is incumbent on us to act .
Our work will continue even after ballots are counted , as legal challenges may arise . Here , we can step up and protect voters ’ rights , defend election workers , and safeguard election results . The volatility of the current election cycle only underscores the necessity for our vigilance . No profession is better suited than ours as lawyers to foster understanding and stability as the legal landscape evolves . And this work must continue as a critical part of the infrastructure for future elections .
How Lawyers Can Contribute
Every Georgia lawyer can contribute to safeguarding our elections , and there are no small jobs when standing www . atlantabar . org THE ATLANTA LAWYER 15