Interpreters

It is important that all parties clearly understand the court proceeding and are able to participate in court programs and services. When parties are unable to communicate comfortably in the spoken English language, the Court provides interpreters. If you need an interpreter, contact Court Administration (404) 613-9071 with the following information: Date of Request, Name of the person needing interpreter, Language Requested, Type of Hearing and Location of Hearing.

Bang the Gavel: A Court Day Lunch & Learn Program

Digital Recording Requests

R.E.A.C.H. Clinic

Mediation & Alternative Dispute Resolution

When parties in a case are in conflict, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services may assist in resolving the dispute. ADR is a variety of out-of-court processes that allow parties to resolve conflict peacefully and promote creative solutions. Mediation, one of the more popular forms of ADR, is offered in all small claims cases, related or connected citizen-initiated warrant applicants and landlord-tenant matters.

Misdemeanor Mental Health Court (MMC)

In collaboration with several justice partners, in July 2018, Magistrate Court and State Court partnered to begin a pilot program that would offer a bridge to a safer release for misdemeanor citizen-defendants with mental health needs detained in the jail. MMC diverts appropriate defendants out of prosecution and into community-based treatment as well as offers those defendants placed on probation the necessary support to maintain themselves in the community and reduce their risk of recidivism. Through careful assessment and verification of needs (housing, treatment, stabilization), citizen defendants are connected with services, released and monitored through the court and behavioral health partners. Contact Georgee Corley, Program Director at magistrate.mmc@fultoncountyga.gov

Wedding Ceremonies

While Georgia residents who wish to get married in Georgia may obtain a marriage license from any Probate Court in any Georgia County. As an additional option, the Magistrate Court of Fulton County provides free marriage ceremonies by appointment, Monday through Thursday. Contact magistrate.jarequests@fultoncountyga.gov for more information and to book your appointment.

Housing Court Assistance Center

Housed in the Office of the Magistrate Clerk, the Housing Court Assistance Center is a free legal clinic which helps tenants understand their rights under Georgia law. Participants consult with an attorney who explains the procedures and tenants legal options and provides appropriate referrals. Program sponsors are Georgia State University College of Law’s Center for Access to Justice, Lawyers for Equal Justice and Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation.

Conflict Indigent Defense Attorneys

As part of an accused’s constitutional rights, those accused in a criminal case who meet the income guidelines of indigence are appointed an attorney to represent them, if they choose. Occasionally, multiple defendants are charged in a case which fits this criterion. In these instances, defense services are paid for by the court, using a list of qualified defense counsel. Contact magistrate.jarequests@fultoncountyga.gov for more information.

Non-Complex Division, Superior Court Support

The Superior Court Non-Complex Case Management Order, established December 12, 2007, provides that certain non-violent felony cases are processed expeditiously through a 9 week case management process. Cases are monitored through timely indictment, opportunity for plea and arraignment, motions and trial. This handling of the felony non-complex calendar directly impacts the jail population, reducing length of jail stay and allowing those non-violent charges quicker resolutions, while allowing Superior Court judges to focus on managing and trying violent and more serious felony cases and other complex litigation.

Court Resources

The Self-Help Center is located in the Justice Center Tower in room TG300 and is dedicated to providing informed access, information, and support services for those having legal matters in the State and Magistrate Courts of Fulton County.