Meet Senior Assistant District Attorney Lashawnda Woods-Roberts. In her multifaceted role as Truancy Court Lead and REACH Coordinator, Lashawnda is a dedicated advocate for the rights of victims, while also representing the State before the Fulton County Juvenile Court. Her primary focus is on ensuring the best interests of children aged 16 and under, who appear before the Court due to delinquent behavior.
With a wealth of experience and expertise, Lashawnda's journey in law and public service began at the University of South Carolina School of Law, where she obtained her Juris Doctor and specialized in Children's Law. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Science in Education from Florida A&M University, reflecting her commitment to the educational welfare of young individuals.
Before joining the Fulton County District Attorney's Office in 2021, Lashawnda made significant contributions to education law and policy. Her legal career started as an Equal Justice Works Fellow, focusing on justice-involved children in South Carolina, and later in Georgia, advocating for children facing expulsion or school displacement. Prior to her legal pursuits, Lashawnda served as a secondary school teacher, after-school program development specialist, and AVID/GEAR UP college and career coordinator.
Lashawnda's dedication to serving children and education spans over two decades, including various roles such as a tutor, school site coordinator, academic enrichment planner, and grade level lead teacher. During her time in law school, she actively engaged in pro bono work as a Guardian ad litem for Richland County CASA and as a Community Service Director and Chapter President for the Black Law Students Association. Lashawnda initiated the impactful "AVID Fridays with BLSA" mentoring program in Richland School District Two, which continues to thrive today.
Her remarkable achievements have earned her numerous accolades, including the District Teacher of the Year award, the Children's Law Concentration Distinguished Student Award, and the prestigious 2018 Hugh L. Willcox Pro Bono Volunteer of the Year Award.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Lashawnda cherishes being a devoted mother to her teenage son and finds joy in spending time with her family and friends. She actively volunteers in her community and expresses her creativity through various forms of art.
Lashawnda's passion for justice and education, coupled with her extensive experience, makes her an invaluable asset to the Fulton County District Attorney's Office and a true advocate for the well-being of young individuals within the community.