Catherine S. Bernard

Catherine S. Bernard is a founding partner and an accomplished criminal defense attorney known for securing justice in Georgia’s most challenging cases. With extensive courtroom experience and a commitment to client advocacy, Catherine is a relentless defender for individuals facing criminal charges, particularly in cases involving wrongful accusations.

Catherine began her academic path at Emory University, studying political science and philosophy. She later earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law. Her early legal work included roles at the DC City Attorney’s Office and a boutique family law firm in Beverly Hills, preparing her for the complex issues clients often face.

Catherine launched her criminal law practice in 2009 and quickly became recognized for her success in felony jury trials. She was an assistant public defender before opening her firm in 2013. Her past also includes work at a major Atlanta litigation firm on class actions and local government matters, broadening her legal insight and experience.

Catherine’s work centers on fighting government overreach and protecting the rights of the accused. She has won dozens of felony jury trials and is known for achieving dismissals and favorable outcomes. Her dedication ensures that clients are never forced into unjust plea deals, and her courtroom strategy is both aggressive and principled.

Catherine S. Bernard advocates beyond the courtroom through community involvement and legal reform. She led a successful campaign against local debt expansion without voter approval and founded Spartacus Legal, a nonprofit focused on victims of government abuse. Her efforts reflect a passion for justice that extends to individuals and the community.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founding Partner, Bernard & Johnson, LLC
• Member, Fully Informed Jury Association
• Member, Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, Georgia Republican Assembly
• Member, Federalist Society
• Member, Peachtree NORML
• Member, Rotary Club of North Atlanta

Licensed State

• Georgia

Education

• University of Virginia School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Emory University
  BA in Political Science & Philosophy

Awards & Badges