Oliver Maner Law Firm Inducts I. Gregory Hodges as Lawyer Fellow

News Summary

The Oliver Maner Law Firm has proudly announced the induction of partner I. Gregory Hodges into the American College of Trial Lawyers, emphasizing excellence in legal practice. This prestigious fellowship recognizes Hodges’s over 40 years of trial experience and commitment to ethical advocacy, highlighted during a ceremony held in Maui, Hawaii. His membership signals remarkable achievements within the legal community of Savannah, reinforcing the firm’s legacy of excellence.

Oliver Maner Law Firm Inducts I. Gregory Hodges into Prestigious Fellowship

In a momentous occasion that highlights both individual achievement and the esteemed reputation of Savannah’s legal community, Oliver Maner Law Firm, one of the oldest legal institutions in the region, has announced that partner I. Gregory Hodges has been inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers. This induction is not merely a professional accolade; it symbolizes a commitment to excellence in the field of law.

The American College of Trial Lawyers, a premier legal association in North America founded in 1950, only invites attorneys demonstrating exceptional trial experience and a strong ethical record. This recognition requires a minimum of 15 years in trial practice, a testament to Hodges’s more than 40 years of legal experience in Savannah. His remarkable reputation as one of Georgia’s finest trial lawyers has earned him this distinguished honor.

The induction ceremony took place at the Spring Meeting of the College in the picturesque setting of Maui, Hawaii, where approximately 600 guests gathered to celebrate this honor. Managing Partner at Oliver Maner, Patrick T. O’Connor, underscored Hodges’s commitment to legal excellence and ethical advocacy, reflecting the values that the College champions.

Founded on the principles of enhancing trial practice standards, professionalism, and ethics, the American College of Trial Lawyers continues to support judicial independence and access to justice through its esteemed fellowship.

Shift in Leadership as Jill E. Steinberg Resigns as U.S. Attorney

In a significant change for the Southern District of Georgia, Jill E. Steinberg has announced her resignation as Chief Federal Law Enforcement representative, effective January 17. Her brief tenure began less than a year ago, on February 22, and saw her tackle various pressing legal issues, including those related to unconstitutional conditions in Georgia’s state prisons and pandemic relief fraud reaching over $12 million.

During her leadership, Steinberg played a pivotal role in high-profile prosecutions targeting organized crime and human trafficking. Notably, her efforts in combating the rising number of overdose deaths associated with a white supremacist gang have led to lengthy prison sentences for those involved. Her vigorous oversight established a strong legal stance against violent and harmful practices in the region.

Steinberg’s role also included reinitiating the district’s Human Trafficking Task Force and implementing rigorous training for law enforcement on illegal weapon conversions, showcasing her dedication to community safety and justice.

Community Commemoration: Annual Police Memorial Honors Fallen Officers

In memory and respect, local law enforcement convened for the annual Police Memorial at the intersection of Oglethorpe Avenue and Habersham Street to honor the brave officers who have fallen in the line of duty. This poignant event included heartfelt speeches from law enforcement leaders, along with an invocation by SPD Chaplain Charles Roberson. Reflecting the city’s commitment to honoring its heroes, Mayor Van Johnson proclaimed May 15, 2024, as Annual Police Memorial Day.

As part of the memorial, a CCPD officer placed roses on the Police Memorial Statue for each fallen officer, followed by a solemn prayer from Father Patrick O’Brien, encapsulating the community’s grief and gratitude for those who serve and protect.

University of Georgia’s Law School Shines in Access to Justice

The University of Georgia School of Law has made impressive strides in promoting legal access for underserved populations, culminating in the prestigious State Bar of Georgia’s Law School Excellence in Access to Justice Award. Recognized for their initiative, “Working in the Public Interest”, the institution continues to address unmet legal needs while fostering a sense of community engagement.

Meanwhile, the School hosted its first annual Wilbanks Child Endangerment and Sexual Exploitation Clinic (CEASE) Conference, aimed at providing networking opportunities and critical discussions surrounding the challenges in legal representation for vulnerable populations.

Legacy of Civil Rights Champion Robbie Robinson Recognized

In a stirring tribute to a lost champion of justice, a historical marker honoring Robbie Robinson, a renowned civil rights lawyer murdered in 1989, is set to be placed in his childhood neighborhood. The Savannah City Council has approved this significant recognition, positioning the marker at West 46th and Bulloch streets, an area that shaped Robinson’s journey as one of Savannah’s most passionate advocates for civil rights.

A pioneer in civil rights activism, Robinson was brutally killed by a bomb mailed to his law office, leaving an indelible mark on the community and the field of law. His legacy as a trailblazer continues to inspire the next generation of attorneys dedicated to justice.