to provide legal counsel and representation to those who cannot afford to pay is recognized and established
as the policy of this Court. In years past, before the organization and funding of legal services corporations
and the enactment of legislation providing payment for services in appointive criminal cases, many lawyers
fairly and dutifully responded to the call for indigent representation. Increasingly, it is perceived that lawyers
who regularly and frequently practice in this Court have no contact whatsoever with the indigent client in
civil or criminal cases. This Court will not participate in or permit an abdication of the lawyer's fundamental
responsibility to provide legal services to indigents. It is observed that such services are more effective and
produce greater professional fulfillment when provided voluntarily rather than compulsorily. All members of
the bar of this Court who possess the mental and physical ability, regardless of age, are expected to provide
legal services, on occasion, to indigents. See also, LCrR 44.1.
The roll of attorneys as provided to the judicial officers by the Clerk's Office shall constitute the "panel of
attorneys" as that term is used in the Plan for the Implementation of the Criminal Justice Act of 1964, As
Amended, which plan is a public record available at each divisional office of the Clerk of this Court.
In making appointments for attorneys to represent indigent in criminal or civil cases, the Magistrates Judges,
the Clerk, and the District Judges shall consider the frequency of the appearances of lawyers in civil or
criminal cases in this Court without regard to the residency or principal office maintained by the lawyer.
Those lawyers whose appearances predominate in a particular division shall be given preference for
LOCAL RULES for the SOUTHERN DISTRICT of GEORGIA
Page 45 of 60
Rev. June 2016
appointments in such division, but shall be subject to appointment to a case in any division of this Court.
ATTORNEYS -- GUIDELINES FOR COURTROOM CONDUCT
These instructions are designed to promote uniformity and proper decorum in the courtroom practice of this
district. Members of the bar should adhere to these instructions to the maximum practical extent.
