Open Records Act Requests and Litigation Attorneys in Georgia
Open Records Act Attorneys Atlanta GA
Government transparency is essential to accountability. Georgia’s Open Records Act (OCGA § 50-18-70 et seq.) gives every citizen the right to inspect and obtain public records from state and local agencies. Whether you are a journalist, business owner, attorney, or private citizen, you are entitled to access most government records unless a specific legal exemption applies.
At Gomez Golomb Graham Goerner & Springer LLP, we help clients enforce that right. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling Open Records Act requests and litigation throughout Georgia — from routine information requests to complex disputes involving law enforcement agencies, county governments, and state departments.
Why Choose Us?
Open Records cases are about more than paperwork — they are about public accountability and fairness. We are proud to represent individuals and organizations who stand up for those principles.
We combine detailed knowledge of Georgia’s transparency laws with the practical experience of trial lawyers who know how government agencies actually operate. We approach these matters with preparation, persistence, and gratitude for the opportunity to defend the public’s right to know.
Open Records & FOIA Attorneys
- Obtain Open Records
- Challenge Open Records Decisions
- Sue Agencies for Non-Compliance
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There is no cost or obligation.
Our Fees
We handle most Open Records Act matters on an hourly basis, with attorney rates ranging from $300 to $450 per hour and paralegal rates of $125 per hour. For recurring or high-volume media-law clients, we can offer flat-fee or project-based arrangements.
When we prevail in litigation, we frequently seek recovery of attorney’s fees under OCGA § 50-18-73(b), which authorizes courts to award fees when an agency acts without substantial justification.
Every client receives monthly statements detailing our time and expenses, so you always know how your resources are being used. Our goal is transparency in both government and our billing
Making Effective Open Records Requests
The Open Records Act requires public agencies to respond within three business days of receiving a request (OCGA § 50-18-71(b)(1)). Agencies must either provide the records, specify when they will be available, or cite the specific legal exemption relied upon to withhold them.
We assist clients in drafting precise and strategic requests that reduce delays and avoid unnecessary denials. Our familiarity with Georgia’s disclosure exemptions — including those for ongoing investigations, personal privacy, and attorney–client privilege under OCGA § 50-18-72 — helps ensure that your requests are properly framed and legally sound.
When agencies fail to comply or delay without justification, we engage directly and professionally with records custodians and county attorneys to resolve disputes quickly and effectively.
Challenging Denials and Withholding of Records
If an agency improperly withholds records, Georgia law allows requesters to file a petition in superior court to compel disclosure under OCGA § 50-18-73(a). We represent individuals, journalists, and organizations in these actions, seeking judicial orders that require the production of the requested records and, where appropriate, the recovery of attorneys’ fees and litigation costs.
We understand that Open Records litigation often involves sensitive topics — such as law enforcement operations, personnel files, and government contracting — and we handle these matters with professionalism, discretion, and respect for all parties involved.
In-Depth Analysis & Discussion with an Atlanta Open Records Lawyer
Media, Government, and Public-Interest Representation
Our attorneys regularly represent media organizations, including newspapers and online publishers, in their pursuit of public records and in challenging unlawful restrictions on access. We also advise government agencies, counties, and cities on compliance and best practices to minimize litigation risk.
This dual perspective — representing both requesters and respondents — allows us to anticipate the arguments on both sides and achieve practical, lasting solutions.
Our Experience
We have successfully handled Open Records disputes across Georgia, including actions against sheriff’s offices, county commissions, police departments, and school boards.
Our work includes cases involving:
- Public-safety and booking records
- Use-of-force and body-camera footage
- Government contracts and vendor payments
- Personnel and disciplinary files
- Mugshot and booking-photo access
Our attorneys combine deep statutory knowledge with real courtroom experience to ensure that the law’s promise of openness is honored in practice.
If you have submitted an Open Records request that has been ignored, delayed, or denied, contact Gomez Golomb Graham Goerner & Springer LLP. We can review your request, assess the agency’s response, and assist you in enforcing your rights under Georgia law.
Ready to Discuss Your Case?
Whether you’re facing a personal injury, real estate dispute, criminal matter or business conflict, our attorneys are here to help. With over 30 years of legal experience and a client-first approach, you’re only one call away from speaking with a licensed Georgia attorney.
