The Office of The Public Defender, Atlanta Circuit serves indigent criminal defendants in Fulton County. Attorneys in the State and Magistrate Court Division represent clients charged with misdemeanor offenses in those courts. Though they face less severe consequences than clients charged with felonies, clients in the state and magistrate court have the same rights to trial and appeal as everyone else charged with a crime. The Fulton County Office lawyers help steer their clients through the often complex processes in those courts, from their first appearances in court through arraignment, motions, and trial. Misdemeanor clients frequently enter accountability court programs, like Mental Health and DUI Court, where their attorneys help them secure better outcomes than if they had gone to trial. Additionally, the State and Magistrate Court Division represents clients who are charged with county-ordinance violations involving animals (Environmental Court) and clients who are issued citations for misdemeanor offenses. This office ensures all accused indigent defendants are guaranteed fundamental constitutional rights by providing effective and zealous legal representation. If you require any further information, kindly contact the Fulton County Public Defender's State and Magistrate Court Division.