The Georgia Defense Lawyers Association (GDLA) was founded in 1967 by a group of civil defense attorneys, who wanted to create a forum for networking outside of the office, courtroom and arbitration table. Initially the GDLA's focus was social camaraderie and the informal sharing of techniques and war stories.

Today, it has expanded on the vision of its founders and evolved to offer formal avenues for training, networking and communication. GDLA membership benefits include CLE seminars, judicial receptions, an award-winning magazine and annual Law Journal, plus access to an e-mail blast system that allows members to pose questions about experts, points of law, emerging issues, and more.

In recognition of GDLA’s Golden Anniversary, celebrated during its 50th Annual Meeting, Governor Nathan Deal issued a proclamation naming June 17, 2017 as “Georgia Defense Lawyers Association Day in Georgia.” A history of GDLA, including the proclamation, can be found here.