Public Defender’s office implements Social Distancing Protocols

In response to Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Harold Melton’s Declaration of Judicial Emergency in Georgia, Mountain Judicial Circuit Public Defender Drew Powell has implemented “social distancing protocols” in operation of the public defender’s office.

The protocol will run for a time period of 30 days.

Powell says all attorneys, and other staff will be teleworking as much as possible.

Courts have been closed for jury trials, jury service, calendar calls, arraignments and motions calendars.

He says “We will be placing our priorities on clients that are currently incarcerated, and become incarcerated, at our local jails during this time period.”

Court will still be held for bond hearings, probation matters and plea hearings on incarcerated clients.

No personal visits to the Public Defender’s Office will be permitted, unless specific advance arrangements are agreed upon in advance.

Powell says anyone needing assistance regarding someone who is in one of the local jails, to call his office with all relevant details.

He adds, “If you are on bond and wish to apply for the services of our office, please call the office and we will take an application for you over the phone. We will be working with local officials to identify and seek the release of anyone with heightened physical risk factors which include physical illnesses which lower the immune system and anyone over age 60.”

For additional information regarding the protocols that are now in place at the Public Defender’s Office contact Powell by calling 706-839-0360.