Legal Services
The Legal Services Office interacts with the Prosecuting Attorney’s Council, Georgia Sheriff’s Association, Association of Chiefs of Police, Criminal Justice Coordinating Council and the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety in public safety related matters.
This office works closely with Investigative Services to ensure that investigations are complete and objective and, when necessary, properly form the basis for discipline. In April of 2005, the Open Records Unit was created under the supervision of the Director of Legal Services. This unit is responsible for processing open records requests from the public, with a focus on prompt and efficient customer service. The unit provides guidance and assistance to field staff responding to open records requests. The Legal Services Office works closely with the Public Information Office and field staff in processing subpoenas and other document requests. The attorneys also regularly provide training to the Department’s employees on such topics as unlawful harassment, open records and search and seizure.
Legal Services reviews and files Safety Responsibility claims to suspend the driver’s license of those individuals who are responsible for damages to Georgia State Patrol vehicles. These damages arose from motor vehicle accidents involving uninsured motorists or individuals driving stolen vehicles.
This office acts as the liaison with the Department of Law in civil litigation matters. They ensure proper requests are made to secure the needed representation for the Department’s employees and they provide litigation support to the Department of Law when necessary.
Legal Services also drafts or reviews all proposed legislation that may impact the Department and closely monitors and gathers information on bills impacting public safety.
On a daily basis, the Legal Services staff works in conjunction with the Personnel Services staff to ensure compliance with all applicable State and Federal labor and employment laws. Legal Services also provides technical assistance to Personnel in responding to inquiries made by the EEOC and the Georgia Commission on Equal Employment Opportunity.