STATEWIDE DIVISION

Professional Development & Training

Empowering Georgia's public defenders with the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to provide exceptional legal representation. We cover up to 12 hours of CLE annually per attorney.

Trish Bertram

Trish Bertram

Division Director

12
CLE Credits
500+
Attorneys & Staff Trained
50+
Annual Programs
45
Circuits Served

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

We Invest in Your Professional Growth

Bar Dues Covered

GPDC covers the annual State Bar of Georgia dues for all attorneys on staff, so you can focus on what matters most — defending your clients.

CLE Credits Paid

We pay for the required 12 hours of Continuing Legal Education each year, providing high-quality training through our own programs and conferences.

TRAINING CALENDAR

Upcoming Events

Register for training sessions, conferences, and professional development opportunities.

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February 2026

In-Person
Online
Hybrid
On-Demand

SIGNATURE PROGRAMS

Programs

Building the next generation of public defense leaders through partnership with the University of Georgia.

Leadership Academy graduates

Leadership Academy

Training Assistant Public Defenders for roles as Chief Assistants and Circuit Public Defenders through the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at UGA.

  • Human Resources Management
  • Finance & Budgeting
  • Relationship Management
  • Organizational Leadership
TILPP cohort group photo

Transition into Law Practice Program (TILPP)

A mentoring program hosted by UGA School of Law designed to support newly admitted attorneys as they transition into public defense practice.

  • Mentorship & Guidance
  • Trial Skills Institute
  • CLE Credit Requirements
  • Hosted by UGA School of Law
Public Defense Week attendees

Public Defense Week

Annual flagship conference encompassing the Summer Conference, networking events, CLE trainings, and other professional development opportunities.

  • Annual Summer Conference
  • CLE & Skills Training
  • Networking Events
  • Statewide Collaboration