On behalf of the State Bar of Georgia, I wish to congratulate Northeastern Judicial Circuit Superior Court Judge Jason J. Deal on his gubernatorial appointment to serve on the Georgia Council on Criminal Justice Reform.

All Georgians will benefit from Judge Deal's service on the council, which oversees issues related to adult and juvenile justice reform. In the past three years, the state has made great strides toward reducing the criminal recidivism rate and the costs to taxpayers through enactment of significant reform legislation.

Judge Deal's acceptance of this appointment further demonstrates his commitment to the public service responsibilities of Georgia lawyers and judges and helps further the rule of law and uphold the constitutional values of our state.

Charles L. Ruffin
President, State Bar of Georgia