Words from the wise
Ask a District Attorney
Sherry Boston, formally the DeKalb County Solicitor General, ran for office against then incumbent Robert James. Previously a criminal defense attorney, she was elected in May 2016, receiving 62 percent of the vote in the Democratic primary, and as there was no Republican candidate, she assumed office in January 2017. We posed the following questions of this newly elected D. A. my ambition but encouraged me to be an innovator in the areas of law and public service.
When you graduated law school, is this where you thought your legal career would take you?
Absolutely not. When I graduated from law school, I was hired to work for a firm specializing in criminal defense work. I anticipated then that I would have a life-long career as a criminal defense attorney. However, over the past few years, I have learned to remain open to new possibilities and opportunities in the law. Embracing that mindset help
The movie Philadelphia was an impactful and thought-provoking legal drama exploring both humanity and the struggle against hypocrisy.
What is the most frustrating aspect of your job?
Falling short in the fight for justice. Despite our most fervent attempts to secure what we consider to be a just result, sometimes a jury may see a case in a different way. That can be disappointing. Nevertheless, we continue the good fight in the face of all obstacles on behalf of the victims for whom we advocate and the citizens we serve.
What do people not know about you that would surprise them the most?
Most people would be surprised to know that I have a twin sister. Yes, really, I do!
Who was your most influential mentor and why?
Early in my career, I sought the advice and guidance of female attorneys who could serve as role models and help me navigate what was traditionally a maledominated profession. I am fortunate to have connected with several inspirational women who not only supported propel me to the elected position of District Attorney for the Stone Mountain Judicial Circuit. I am grateful for this role and the opportunity to not only represent, but serve, my community.
What is your favorite movie or book about the law?
If you could travel to any place in the world where would you go and why?
I would love to travel to Thailand. I am intrigued by the culture, history, food, and sheer beauty of the land. It is a bucket-list destination.
The Varsity or Chick-fil-A?
Chick-fil-A all the way! Growing up in Baltimore, Chick-fil-A establishments were few and far between. I savored those rare visits back then and still enjoy a great nugget or two every chance I get. ▪
* The Editorial Board requested responses from several metro-Atlanta District Attorneys; however, at the time of publication, only Ms. Boston’ s responses were available.
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