Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School recently welcomed the Department of Justice’s Office for Access to Justice (ATJ) on their national law school tour. The event, titled Defending People, Families, and Communities, was inspired by AJMLS’ selection as the final stop in the year-long tour. The purpose of the tour was to highlight legal careers serving those most denied access to justice.
The day began with opening remarks by Professor Jonathan Rapping and Ryan K. Buchanan, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia. The highlight of the event was a fireside chat with Rachel Rossi, Director of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office for Access to Justice. Speaking about the event, Jace C. Gatewood, Dean of AJMLS, expressed pride in empowering students to shape the criminal justice system and providing them with the necessary skills to be ethical and professional lawyers.
Director Rossi spoke passionately about the mission of public defense work, emphasizing the importance of public defenders in ensuring fairness and justice in the legal system. She highlighted the significant role they play in upholding constitutional promises and striving for a more just society.
The event featured table talks with over 20 organizations, workshops led by seasoned practitioners, and panel discussions on topics rarely explored in a traditional law school setting. Ricky Panayoty, Student Bar Association President and justice-impacted student panelist, shared his experience, expressing how the event deepened his understanding of legal needs in underserved communities and inspired him to work towards a more equitable legal system.
Professor Jonathan Rapping concluded the event by emphasizing the importance of Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School being chosen as the final stop of the national tour. He highlighted the school’s commitment to shaping lawyers dedicated to improving the legal profession and society as a whole.
The Office for Access to Justice had previously commemorated National Public Defense Day by announcing the launch of the Public Defense Resource Hub, aimed at providing comprehensive resources to support individuals and organizations involved in public defense.