Lawyer wins right to avoid representing criminals

DAHLONEGA - An attorney from Dahlonega whose speciality is real estate has won the right to be removed from a list of attorneys used for criminal cases involving indigents.

Roger Palmour was granted his wish by Lumpkin County Juvenile Court Judge Charles Brown after he challenged the matter in court.

Under the program, lawyers on the list must accept cases they are given by the court whether they want them or not.

Palmour will now be allowed to have his name removed from the list. Palmour says he is unqualified to practice criminal cases in juvenile court. Palmour tells the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Judge Brown's ruling is a victory for defendants and their rights.