Courtney R. Lerch

Courtney R. Lerch brings focused criminal defense experience and steady leadership to every case she handles. Her work centers on protecting individual rights while guiding clients through difficult legal moments. She is recognized for clear communication, careful preparation, and a firm commitment to standing beside people when the justice system feels confusing or intimidating.

Courtney began her legal education at the University of Georgia, where she built a strong academic foundation. She later attended Mississippi College School of Law, earning her Juris Doctorate in 2007. During law school, she gained early exposure to courtroom decision-making through internships that shaped her understanding of legal reasoning.

Courtney completed prestigious judicial internships with Federal District Court Judge James J. Brady in the Middle District of Louisiana and Judge Virginia Carlton of the Mississippi Court of Appeals. She also worked with the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. These experiences allowed her to observe how judges evaluate arguments from both prosecutors and defense attorneys.

Courtney started her legal career handling Federal Criminal Defense cases and later expanded into Felony and Misdemeanor matters in State Court. Through this work, she learned how overwhelming criminal charges can be for individuals and families. Her approach focuses on being a strong voice for clients during stressful and uncertain situations.

Courtney has earned professional recognition for her legal skill and advocacy, including The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100, Best of Savannah- Criminal Defense Attorney, Am Jur – Legal Writing/Advanced Legal Writing, and the Bill Daniel’s Trial Advocacy Program. She was also named an American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys, 2019 10 Best Criminal Law Attorney.

Courtney R. Lerch maintains active involvement in professional organizations such as the American Bar Association, Savannah Bar Association, Georgia Association of Women Lawyers, and criminal defense associations at both state and national levels. She is admitted to the State Bars of Georgia and State Bars of Colorado and supports pro bono efforts through the Mississippi Center for Justice.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Schneider Lerch, LLC
• Member, State Bar of Georgia
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, Savannah Bar Association
• Member, Georgia Association of Women Lawyers
• Member, State Bars of Colorado
• Member, Savannah Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
• Member, Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
• Member, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys

Licensed State

• Georgia

Education

• Mississippi College School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Georgia
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges