Advocating for Our Future: The Importance of Legal Representation for Children
By Deana Holiday Ingraham
Edited by Anana Harris Parris
As a partner at Dreyer & Associates and a lifelong advocate for public service, I believe that advocating for children is one of the most important responsibilities a lawyer can undertake. Children are often the most vulnerable members of our society, with limited capacity to protect their rights or navigate the complexities of the legal system. As lawyers, it is our duty to ensure that their voices are heard, their rights are protected, and their futures are not compromised by injustices beyond their control.
My journey as an advocate for children began early in my career, and it has only deepened through my work as Mayor of East Point, where I’ve championed numerous initiatives to uplift our youth. From launching programs like the Mayor’s Scholars Program to mentoring young leaders through My Brother’s and Sister’s Keepers, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that support and advocacy can have on young lives. These programs were designed to give children the tools, resources, and encouragement they need to succeed—and as a lawyer, I carry this same commitment to the courtroom, fighting for children in cases ranging from custody battles to ensuring they have access to quality education.
The importance of legal advocacy for children cannot be overstated. Children often lack the knowledge or ability to articulate their needs or defend their rights, especially when they face complex legal situations such as family court disputes, foster care, or juvenile justice matters. A lawyer advocating on behalf of a child becomes their voice in a system that may otherwise overlook their best interests. Having worked in Georgia’s largest school district and serving as the Quality Manager for the Georgia Statewide Afterschool Network, I’ve seen how pivotal legal support can be in ensuring children receive the care, education, and opportunities they deserve.
Advocating for children is not just a legal obligation; it is a moral imperative. As lawyers, we have the privilege of wielding the law as a tool for justice, and when we use it to protect children, we are investing in the future of our communities. Whether in the courtroom or through community initiatives, I remain committed to standing up for the youngest among us. Together, we can create a world where every child is given the chance to thrive, free from the constraints of injustice and inequality.