Joe DeGaetano Is Everything I Want In A Judge

Friday, July 20, 2012

I met Joe DeGaetano in the University of Georgia Law Library when we were both students there many years ago.  He was busy studying, preparing for class and making notes.  After getting to know him, I discovered that he was always busy working hard on the next assignment.  This work ethic is the reason he finished second in his class at one of the most respected law schools in the region. 

Nearly 15 years later, Joe hasn’t changed.  His favorite saying is “the harder I work, the luckier I get.”  This is the mantra by which he lives his life and manages his law practice. 

Over the years, I’ve watched Joe become the kind of lawyer everyone should be so lucky to have as their own.  He puts everything he has into each case, whether large or small, paid or pro bono.  He brings home from work the troubles of his clients and diligently works through the best ways to help them.  He routinely receives letters, emails and gifts from his clients thanking him for being so dedicated to their cases.

In the last several years, he has begun accepting appointments to represent criminal defendants in the Federal court system.  He has been deeply affected by the poor choices many of them make and the horrible situations in which they live.  I believe this has spurred his passion for serving and improving his community.  This work has led him to run for Sessions Court Judge. 

Joe DeGaetano is everything I want in a judge for my community:  hard-working, thoughtful, respectful and knowledgeable.  He’s also a good man and a dedicated father and husband.  I hope you’ll join me in voting for Joe DeGaetano for Hamilton County Sessions Court Judge on Aug. 2, or during early voting through July 28.

Heather DeGaetano


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