ABOUT ME

Hi, I'm Janice

WHERE I COME FROM

I was born and raised in Grambling, Louisiana, a small community shaped by service, education, and a deep belief in lifting up those who need support. My mother was an educator, and my father worked with mentally and physically disabled individuals. From them, I learned early that every person deserves dignity, understanding, and access to opportunities that help them succeed. Those values continue to guide my work in the justice system.

A CAREER OF SERVICE

My legal career in criminal law began as a public defender, where for ten years I represented individuals with serious mental illnesses. I was appointed to the Fulton County Mental Health Task Force to help develop a comprehensive mental health court, which deepened my understanding that justice must account for a person’s full circumstances and needs.

Over time, I realized that as a public defender, my ability to shape outcomes was limited. On the advice of a mentor, I transitioned to prosecution so that I could help create solutions—whether through diversion, rehabilitation programs, or accountability measures that also supported safer communities.

My current role is Deputy District Attorney of the Crimes Against Children Unit in the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office. This unit prosecutes cases involving the abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, and homicide of children. My commitment to protecting young people stems from my lifelong connection to educators and my belief that children are among the most vulnerable members of our community and deserve the strongest safeguards.

MISSION STATEMENT

Justice Requires Balance

My approach to decision-making is grounded in balance. A judge must protect constitutional rights while also considering community safety. That means weighing the circumstances of each person, understanding the root causes that bring them into the courtroom, and looking for solutions that reduce the likelihood of future harm.

I work hard, I listen carefully, and I take the responsibilities of the courtroom seriously. I believe in hearing people’s stories so that I can understand their circumstances and make thoughtful, fair decisions. I am committed to the law, attentive to the people before me, and aware that every ruling affects not only the individuals involved but the broader community.

Stronger communities create safer families, and safer families give young people a chance to grow into stable, successful adults. My career—on both sides of the courtroom—has been dedicated to supporting that vision of justice.