2025 Winter Conference Lineup

District Attorney Fani T. Willis is a trailblazer in the legal community and a transformative leader in justice reform. As Fulton County’s first female DA, she has implemented groundbreaking programs and reshaped the criminal justice system. As Friday’s keynote speaker, Fani will inspire and challenge attendees with her unique insights and impactful leadership.

State Representative Tanya F. Miller brings unparalleled expertise in criminal justice reform and civil rights to her role as Georgia’s District 62 Representative. A former prosecutor and dedicated advocate, Tanya has tackled some of the most pressing legal and social issues of our time. As Saturday’s keynote speaker, she will deliver an inspiring address that promises to empower and galvanize.

An award-winning attorney and co-founder of Clark & Clark Law Group, Nefertara Clark is a powerhouse in estate planning, personal injury, and criminal defense. With over 1,000 cases handled as a former Fulton County Public Defender, she combines unmatched legal acumen with a deep commitment to justice. A published legal scholar and graduate of Spelman College and Southern University Law Center, Nefertara will share insights into financial and legal planning strategies for attorneys.

Candice D. McKinley is driven by the principles ofh ard work, integrity, and a deep commitment to service. With over two decades of experience spanning education, law, and policy, she founded C. McKinley Law, a black-owned, women-led law firm. Her goal is to provide opportunities for minority women to excel as litigators while maintaining a work-life balance.

Beyond her professional career, Candice is an avid traveler who enjoys exploring warm, coastal destinations. She's a former triathlete and currently is a certified Pilates instructor. Candice serves as the Vice Chair of the Georgia Bar Association Wellness Committee. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Spelman College and her Juris Doctorate from Florida A&M University College of Law.

As Deputy Director of the Southern Center for Human Rights, Atteeyah Hollie is a commanding force in the fight against systemic injustice. Her groundbreaking litigation and policy advocacy have challenged inequities across the Southeast, earning her recognition as a leader in civil rights reform. Atteeyah will offer her expertise on strategies to drive systemic change in the criminal legal system.

A highly respected workers’ compensation attorney, Scott Hart is known for his relentless advocacy on behalf of injured workers. With decades of experience and a reputation for achieving results, Scott’s deep knowledge and innovative strategies will provide invaluable insights for attorneys navigating complex compensation cases.

Tracee Benzo is a pioneering voice in workers’ compensation and personal injury law. As the founder of Benzo Law, she combines legal excellence with a passion for equity and inclusion in the profession. Tracee will share her expertise in navigating evolving legal landscapes and creating meaningful impact for clients and communities.

A leading voice in bankruptcy law and a Subchapter V Trustee, Brendon Singh is redefining the field with his forward-thinking approach to financial resolutions. Known for his practical solutions and client-focused strategies, Brendon will discuss innovative practices to build a thriving bankruptcy practice and support clients through financial recovery.

A visionary in civil rights and public interest law, Derrick Woodard has dedicated his career to fighting for justice and equity. With extensive experience in personal injury and civil rights litigation, Derrick will contribute to discussions on dismantling systemic inequities and advancing impactful reform.

An award-winning mediator and trial attorney, Gino Brogdon Jr. is celebrated for his ability to resolve complex disputes and his innovative approach to legal technology. As a leading figure at Miles Mediation and Arbitration and a three-time Bulldog 100 honoree, Gino will share his expertise in mediation, providing actionable strategies for achieving resolution.

As Executive Director of the Southern Center for Human Rights, Terrica Ganzy is a transformational leader in the fight for equity and justice. A seasoned advocate with a career steeped in criminal legal reform, Terrica’s visionary approach has reshaped policies and lives. She will share her insights into combating systemic inequities and advancing human rights.

Renowned nationwide for his expertise in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases, Michael Goldberg is a powerhouse in personal injury law. As a partner at Fried Goldberg LLC, he has secured record-breaking settlements and is a sought-after lecturer for attorneys nationwide. Michael will provide practical tools and strategies for excelling in personal injury law.

Judge Marian Parker is an esteemed authority in probate law, estate planning, and guardianship. With years of judicial experience, her leadership and expertise have profoundly shaped the legal landscape. Judge Parker will share her unparalleled knowledge to help attorneys navigate the complexities of probate and estate law.

Devin Franklin is a transformative leader in policy advocacy and systemic reform. As Senior Movement Policy Counsel at the Southern Center for Human Rights, Devin works tirelessly to challenge inequities and promote accountability. His contributions will illuminate pathways to a more equitable and just legal system.

With over 20 years of legal experience, Romana Toole has dedicated her career to protecting the most vulnerable and creating safer communities. Currently serving as Deputy District Attorney for Fulton County's Records, Diversion, and Record Restriction Unit, she oversees programs that provide second chances through initiatives like Adult Diversion. A proud alumna of Mississippi College School of Law (J.D.), Alabama A&M University (M.B.A.), and Berea College (B.A.), Ramona is a respected leader and active member of organizations like GABWA, GAWL, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Keith Miles is a renowned attorney specializing in elder law, estate planning, and Medicaid planning. As a trusted advisor, he has dedicated his career to empowering families with the knowledge and tools needed to secure their futures. With a focus on innovative legal strategies, Keith helps clients navigate complex systems to ensure their loved ones are protected. At the GAAAA Winter CLE Conference, Keith will contribute invaluable insights into elder care planning and its critical role in today's legal landscape.

Karlise Yvette Grier is the Executive Director of Georgia's Chief Justice’s Commission on Professionalism, where she leads initiatives to uphold the highest standards of conduct in the legal profession. With over three decades of experience, including roles as a Magistrate Court judge and managing attorney at Grier Law Office, P.C., Ms. Grier is a respected authority in professionalism and ethical practice. A graduate of Dartmouth College and Emory University School of Law, she will bring her expertise to the GAAAA Winter CLE Conference with a session on professionalism in Georgia.

Lawanda Hodges is a Managing Attorney at The Law Firm of Lawanda  Hodges, LLC, a white collar and high-stakes criminal defense, internal  investigations, and Whistleblower/Relator Representation firm that  represents clients in federal and state courts. She has over 20 years of  legal experience, including over a decade as a prosecutor, where she was  lead counsel in over 50 felony, jury trials and earned numerous awards,  such as Atlanta Circuit's Attorney of the Year. 

Lawanda also has a background in business litigation, having  represented major companies in various disputes at international and  mid-size firms. She has been granted Top Secret Security Clearance  (SCI) in her role as a defense attorney by the US Department of Justice  and is on the prestigious CJA Panel, where she is often appointed to  represent indigent defendants in federal matters. 

Lawanda is a proud graduate of Spelman College and The University of  Pennsylvania Carey Law School. She is barred in Georgia, the District  of Columbia, and the United States Supreme Court and has been  admitted pro hac vice in Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, and  Michigan. Her varied skill-set makes her uniquely situated to represent  whistleblowers in multiple industries while understanding the intricacies  of covert, government investigations. 

When Lawanda is not spending time with her family, she enjoys  mentoring her former Spelman Mock Trial students (where she coached  for 10+ years) and has taken a liking to being a legal analyst on several  nationally syndicated crime shows on various networks.

Robert Kenner, Jr.  has been practicing law for over 20 years. He is a highly experienced criminal defense and personal injury attorney. He received his undergraduate degree in criminal justice from Savannah State College; he received his Master’s Degree in Administration of Justice from Penn State University, and he received his law degree from John Marshall Law School in Atlanta, Georgia.  

Robert has handled several high-profile criminal cases wherein his clients have been found not guilty of murder, felony murder, armed robbery, aggravated assault, kidnapping, false imprisonment, and D.U.I. Robert has argued before the Georgia Supreme Court and the Georgia Court of Appeals where he has gotten several of his clients’ convictions overturned and/or evidence ruled inadmissible at trial. Robert has represented clients throughout Georgia, and in several other states.

As a personal injury lawyer, Robert has gotten large settlements and verdicts for clients in civil cases involving wrongful deaths, nursing home abuse, slip and fall, false arrest, malicious prosecution, tractor trailer accidents, auto accidents, premises liability, and contract disputes.

Robert also represents clients in real estate closings and transaction, contract disputes, and business law.

Robert’s motto is simple: “Treat each client as if he or she is your mother, father, relative or love one. If you do, you will never lose focus and you will fight for them with dedication and fervor.”

Robert is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Gamma Chi Chapter, Savannah State College; a member of the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (GACDL), and a member of the Dekalb County Lawyers Association.