SSPBA Legal Staff

Joni Fletcher Cawthon

Director of Legal Services

1-800-233-3506

Joni began her career at PBA in 1994 as the Director of Communications. In that capacity she was responsible for producing The Front Line, (PBA’s Newsletter), preparing political ads, designing layouts and other communications functions. In 1996, Joni started law school attending evening sessions because she worked during the day. She later moved into a dual role at PBA serving as the Front Line editor and legal assistant. Upon being admitted to the Georgia Bar Association, Joni became a staff attorney. In August of 2004, she became the PBA Legal Services Director.

Joni holds B.S. and M.M.C. degrees from the University of Georgia. She has a Juris Doctor degree from Georgia State University.

"I enjoy being a part of an organization that law enforcement officers can turn to for help when they need it most. Members turn to our department when they are faced with losing their jobs, defending themselves in lawsuits and even having to defend themselves against criminal charges, and PBA has a system in place to assist them. Our purpose is clear, and we work hard to protect our members."

Dale Preiser

Assistant Director of Legal Services

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Dale moved to Georgia in 1991 after receiving a Bachelor of Science in economics from Illinois State University. He received a Masters degree in Business Administration in 2000 from Georgia College & State University. Dale had a prior career in medical practice management. He went to law school in 2002 and graduated from Oklahoma City University with a JD in 2005. Dale then opened a private law practice in McDonough, Georgia and joined SSPBA in June 2012. Dale has two children.

"I am proud to be a part of an organization that provides legal assistance to members facing serious issues directly arising out of performance of their law enforcement duties."

Jim Wright

General Counsel

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Don English

Georgia Counsel

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SSPBA attorney Donald C. English has over 30 years of experience practicing law. He began his law practice as an assistant solicitor for the Fulton County Solicitor’s Office in Atlanta, GA. He later served as the assistant district attorney for the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office in Decatur, GA. Don English joined the PBA in 1990 and has served as General Counsel ever since. Mr. English has successfully represented many PBA members in civil lawsuits, grievances and disciplinary actions. Don English is married to Laurie English. They have one daughter and two grandchildren.

"One of the many reasons I enjoy my work here at PBA is I learned long ago that law enforcement officers make the best clients: they respect the law, they are more likely to tell their lawyer the truth, and are usually grateful for your work."

Andrew Valli

Staff Attorney

1-800-233-3506

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Andy joined the PBA legal staff in October 2015. His prior work experience includes investigating potential violations of the federal securities laws with the Enforcement Division of the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission, general practice work as a solo practitioner and employment as a staff attorney with the business litigation and e-discovery practice groups at King & Spalding.

Andy earned his J.D. degree from Georgia State University College of Law and holds undergraduate degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill and Brevard College. He enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and five children.

Dana Nicolazzi Johnson

Staff Attorney

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Dana’s prior work experience includes clerking for Cordele Circuit Superior Court Judges, handling small claim litigation, and serving as a public defender for criminal defense. She joined the PBA legal staff in January 2020.

Dana attended Mercer University (B.A. English Literature & J.D. degree from the Walter F. George School of Law). She is an active member of the Junior League of Macon and loves to spend her time at local events and exploring all of what the city of Macon has to offer.

Jeana Johnson Barber

Staff Attorney

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Stephen Wasley

Staff Attorney

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Kelly Curran

Legal Administrative Services
Manager

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Jennifer Gossett

Legal Administrative Services
Assistant Manager

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Natalie Woodall

Legal Administrative Services
Associate

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Amy Barnett

Legal Administrative Services
Associate

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April Crumbley

Legal Services Manager

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Lindsey McLain

Legal Case Manager

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Erika Lee

Legal Case Assistant Manager

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Amy Coursey

Legal Call Manager

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Joye Moore

Legal Assistant

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Jennifer Gunter

Legal Receptionist

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Lori Kurz

Legal Receptionist

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Hannah Skidmore

Legal Receptionist

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Cara Phillips

Legal Receptionist

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Jordan Mitten

Legal Assistant

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Jorden Weaver

Legal Case Associate

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Southern States PBA News

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ALPBA scholarship recipient plans to hit the ground in college

December 11, 2024

Maddie Cone, Auburn University freshman, is eager to show her love for the outside world with a degree in agricultural education. "I chose this field to create change in the world through my love for agriculture and education," she said. "Receiving this scholarship is a great honor," she said. "Law enforcement runs deep in my family. This scholarship not only helps to alleviate the financial burdens of college, but it also shows the great support PBF has for the families of law enforcement." Maddie said she is excited about her future and teaching young students to love and appreciate the earth as much as she always has.

Social Security Fairness Act

The Social Security Fairness Act has passed the House and is now in the Senate! Learn more about what you can do.

NCPBA Scholarship Recipient Trey Hinson

November 25, 2024

Whatever Piedmont High School graduate Trey Hinson tackles, he conquers. Next up, college and a law enforcement career in the footsteps of his father, NCPBA member Jason Hinson. Trey has earned two scholarships, in fact, the NCBA Division scholarship and a Foundation Scholarship, earmarked for those students pursuing a degree in criminal justice or criminology. He started college at Appalachian State University in fall of 2024.