Atlanta, GA — November 17, 2025

The DeKalb County Solicitor-General’s Office participated in a statewide professional development initiative this month aimed at strengthening DUI court operations and enhancing public safety across Georgia.

“We know the year is quickly winding down with Thanksgiving and Christmas just weeks away, but our work and our training does not slow for the holidays,” said Solicitor-General Donna Coleman-Stribling. “Our office is committed to continuous improvement and ongoing professional development to better serve the people of DeKalb County.”

This week, the National Center for DUI Courts (NCDC), in partnership with the Council of Accountability Court Judges (CACJ), hosted a comprehensive two-day DUI Court Tune-Up Training Program. The program equips DUI court teams with the latest research, evidence-based strategies, and national best practices, helping jurisdictions refine operations and improve outcomes.

Laurel Spainhour, DeKalb County Deputy Chief Assistant Solicitor-General, brought her extensive legal experience and longstanding commitment to justice and accountability to the training.

“The DeKalb County DUI Court Program, as with accountability courts generally, allows us to significantly reduce recidivism, while at the same time providing participants with a ‘choice and a voice.’”

Spainhour’s participation helps ensure that the DeKalb County Solicitor-General’s Office remains aligned with national standards while continuing to adopt innovative approaches in handling DUI cases.

She said, “although the underlying goal is to make our County and the public safer and healthier, continued reassessment of best clinical and treatment practices helps us to give hope to those whose life choices have negatively impacted both their own lives, and the lives of their families and community members. This generates immeasurable benefits, both tangible and aspirational.”

Solicitor-General Coleman-Stribling emphasized the broader impact of this professional development saying, “providing our team with the latest research and tools strengthens our mission to protect everyone on DeKalb County’s roads. It also reinforces our commitment to prosecuting misdemeanor crimes diligently, fairly, and ethically, ensuring justice prevails for victims, defendants, and the citizens of DeKalb County.”

Through this November training, the Solicitor-General’s Office reaffirms its dedication to implementing informed, effective, and compassionate practices within the criminal justice system. The insights gained will support ongoing efforts.