Georgia Justice Project (GJP)

Criminal Defense & Probation Assistance with Social Service Support:At no cost to clients, GJP provides low-income people accused of a crime a combination of legal representation and comprehensive social services, often lasting long after a case is resolved. GJP assists clients who are committed to participating in our social services with access to counseling, referrals for mental health and substance abuse treatment, help accessing social benefits, budgeting, and employment preparation. GJP staff attorneys also provide legal consultation and representation for early probation termination for rehabilitated individuals as well as legal services for returning citizens at Metro Reentry Facility (MRF), the only prison located in Atlanta. Annually, we provide holistic legal services for 75-100 clients, assists 100+ clients with early probation termination matters and serve over 100 returning citizens at MRFCriminal Records and Reentry Services:GJP is the only Georgia-based nonprofit that is focused on providing criminal records consultation and representation to remove obstacles to employment, housing, and education. We lead Record Clearing Summits and partnerships state-wide to clear eligible charges from an individual's criminal history and established and operate the first Second Chance Help Desk in the state located in Cobb County. GJP also assists individuals who were denied an occupational license due to their criminal record. All combined, each year we assist over 2,200 individuals with their criminal history. Advocacy/Public Policy:GJP's efforts include community education and advocacy to address criminal justice issues on a systemic level. Last year, we provided training and education to over 7,500 individuals, including a successful campaign to engage employers and promote Second Chance Hiring. Over the last thirteen years, we have championed 22 changes in Georgia law, thereby reducing barriers to reentry for those with a criminal record seeking employment, education, and professional licenses.