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Joseph Scott Key

also known as J. Scott Key, Scott Key
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Avvo Rating10
  • Mcdonough, GA
  • Licensed for 19 years
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About Joseph

I am a criminal appellate and trial attorney. I have represented clients throughout the State of Georgia at the trial, appellate, administrative, and habeas corpus level.

Practice areas

Criminal defenseAppeals
  1. Appeals: 70%

    I have been recognized for my appellate advocacy statewide.

    21 years, 150 cases

  2. Criminal defense: 30%

    21 years, 800 cases

Languages spoken

English

Contact

79 Lawrenceville Street
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Miller & Key

79 Lawrenceville Street
McDonough, GA, 30253

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    GAActive Member in Good Standing 200102/18/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers0
    Legal guides0
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    Best Lawyer, Appellate CategoryGeorgia Trend Magazine2012
    "On The Rise"Fulton Daily Report2009
    GACDLPresident's Award2009
    AppealsGeorgia Super LawyersN/A
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    PartnerJ. Scott Key, P.C.2007 - 2009
    PartnerSexton & Key, P.C.2001 - 2007
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    Georgia Association of Criminal Defense LawyersParliamentarian2014 - Present
    State Bar of Georgia, Appellate Practice SectionChair2013 - Present
    State Bar of Georgia, Formal Advisory Opinion CommitteeMember2013 - Present
    Georgia Association of Criminal Defense LawyersVice-President, Amicus Committee Member2005 - Present
    Georgia Association of Criminal Defense LawyersAmicus Chair2010 - 2013
    Henry County Bar AssociationPresident2006 - 2007
    Publications
    Publication nameTitleDate
    LexBlogGeorgia Criminal Appellate Law Blog2015
    Lexis Nexis Publishing"Cross Examination"2011
    Lexis Nexis Publishing"Expert Witnesses"2011
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    Candler School of Theology, Emory UniversityM.Div.1998
    Mercer UniversityBA - Bachelor of Arts1995
    Georgia State UniversitylawN/A
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    In the Public EyeProgram Chair2014
    Georgia Appellate PracticeKeys to an Effective Oral Argument2014
    Defense of the Child Molestation CaseDevelopments in the Law: Top Ten Tips2013
    Annual Appellate SeminarCriminal Appellate Practice2013
    The New Evidence CodeThe 700 Series: Experts and the New Evidence Code2013
    Spring SeminarTypography in Appellate Briefs2012
    Fall SeminarCriminal Caselaw Update2012
    Defense of Drinking Drivers CLEPlanning Your Appeal2009
    Fall Seminar Program ChairSuperheroes of Criminal Defense2009
    Winter SeminarDefending Children in Tribunal Hearings2007
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    Darst v. StateReversed
    Ling v. StateReversed
    Ellis v. StateReversed
    Jenkins v. StateReversed
    Ward v. WardReversed
    Cisco v. StateReversed
    Archer v. StateReversed
    Cisco v. State of GeorgiaReversed
    State v. Ronnie MooreAcquittal
    Hampton v. StateReversed

    Reviews

    (6)
    5 Star
    		100%
    4 Star
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    3 Star
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    2 Star
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    1 Star
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    Review Joseph Key

    THE KEY!!!

    Posted by

    I could write a novel of a review but I will stick to the important things. Hiring Scott Key and his associate attorney Kaci Timmons was the best choice I could have made when I found myself in the position of being the victim of a bad court decision. These two are phenomenal at their practice. I cannot emphasize enough their expert experience, professionalism, and knowledge of the law. My calls and emails were returned promptly. Always. Everything about this complex process and the laws that govern it was always explained to me in terms that I could understand. Nobody wants to be in the position of having to defend them selfs or fight in court. It’s not fun, cheap, or easy. But if you find yourself in a position where you need an attorney to right a wrong, these two are your best defense. 100%. Picking the right or wrong attorney can change a persons life trajectory entirely for better or worse. This one is the RIGHT one! Worth every single red cent!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Upstanding Attorney

    Posted by

    Highly recommended! Mr. Key is irreproachable, ethical Attorney. A Reputable, intelligent man committed to seeking Justice. Mr. Keys Paralegal is also outstanding. This firms keeps you informed, returns calls, and Practices law the way it was intended to be.

    Highly recommended

    Posted by

    Scott Key is an outstanding lawyer! I can not put into words the graditude that my family and I, have for Mr.Key. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

    Excellent Attorney

    Posted by

    Attorney Scott Key has done an outstanding job in my case.  He is informative, straightforward and patient in answering all of my questions.  His mastery of the law and his willingness to go the extra mile to uncover case law and decisions that were not a matter of published public record are unparalleled.  I appreciate the fact that he took a genuine interest in my case and always kept me updated.  Mr. Key not only listened to me and heard my concerns, but he engaged me and made sure that I was involved in the process.   Mr. Key’s paralegal Shanda is a definite asset to Mr. Key’s practice.  She, also, has been knowledgeable and responsive to all my inquiries. In addition to Mr. Key’s excellent legal representation, he is trustworthy and straightforward about his compensation, he states the costs upon commencement of engagement and does what he says he will do on time and within budget.  I will recommend him without reservation to anyone requiring excellent legal representation.

    Habeas Corpus Professional.

    Posted by

    I have so many good things to say about my attorney that I really don't know where to start. Lets start by "Habeas Corpus" This is a law that to my understanding questions the legality of a prosecution from a judge (court). The writ of habeas corpus isn't meant to determine whether the detainee is guilty of the crime of which he or she is accused -- it's a call for an examination of the legality of his or her imprisonment . Was the due process of law followed? Did the judge in the case railroad the defendant? Was the jury tampered with? Did the prosecution hide evidence that exonerates the prisoner? I was facing deportation charges doe to cases from a long time ago (serious charges). Scott ordered the Habeas Corpus petition and was able to prove to the court that their were mistakes in the ruling of all charges I remember the two hours like it was yesterday. Even one of the clerks almost got arrested, the D.A was left with no answers in the end. Scott key is a very professional attorney, ones he is on your case he takes care of it like it's his baby. His efficiency is evident and the way he and his team work is out standing. I give my attorney 5 stars because thanks to God and him I am with my family and still in the United States. PS: I will always be amazed at his performance in that court room. I remember the judge looked at him with admiration like the judge knew that he was a good lawyer. Thank You Scott and ones again God Bless You!

    A Second Chance for My Son

    Posted by

    My son had gotten into serious trouble with drug charges. Mr. Key immediately spoke with the DA in the case, negotiated a bond so he could be released into my custody and his office assisted us in finding a rehab for my son that would be acceptable to the courts and the DA. Mr. Key and his office were very knowledgeable about the law, what needed to be done, what kind of facility would not only be acceptable to the courts but would work in my sons rehabilitation. Upon Mr. Key's request, the DA has agreed to drop charges and expunge my Son's record upon his successful completion of the program. My son is doing very well in his program and is very happy and excited about his future. Mr. Key and his office were very caring and helped our family cope and make it through what otherwise could have been a devastating situation with a very different outcome.

    Attorney endorsements

    (9)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    Christopher Chapman, Appeals Attorney on Oct 20, 2017
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    Scott is a tremendous attorney and a great person. His work ethic and his legal skills are among the best. He argues his cases with enthusiasm and zeal and brings a level of creativity to his cases that is unparalleled.

    Joseph Habachy, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 8, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I strongly endorse Scott Key. He is one of the most talented criminal defense attorneys in Georgia and genuinely cares about his clients. He works tirelessly to get each one the result they desire.

    Jeremy Hayes

    Scott is a brilliant criminal defense attorney and an expert at handling all kinds of appeals. His clients and even his opponents in court love working with him because he is fair and reasonable and treats you with dignity and respect even if you happen to disagree on the law.

    Josh Thacker

    Scott and I have known each other for over a decade. He is one of the most brilliant legal minds I have ever met. He is one of the attorneys I call when I need help. I am endorsing him without reservation or hesitation.

    Suesan Miller, Criminal defense Attorney on May 5, 2013
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    Scott Key is amazing, one of the most brilliant lawyers I have ever seen. Scott fights hard for each and every client that he has.

    Nathanael Horsley, Appeals Attorney on Apr 24, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    If you are looking for an appellate lawyer you can't go wrong with Scott. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table and has a keen eye for spotting legal issues that many attorneys would simply miss. But even beyond his knowledge and skill I have a great deal of respect for the passion he brings to the table in defending his clients.

    Peter Zeliff, Appeals Attorney on Aug 6, 2009
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Scott Key is a fantastic lawyer. A Westlaw or Lexus search will quickly reveal the high caliber of this talented Georgia lawyer. He appeals, he wins. I am not alone in recognizing Scott as a smart, professional and effective attorney. Judges and prosecutors respect him and know that he will take a case to the next level and prevail. Winning on appeal is not easy, but Scott applies his intellect and experience, and gets results. If you need to appeal, you need to talk to Scott. An effective appellate lawyer is a blessing for all Georgians. When Scott wins an appeal, lawyers all across Georgia, from Jasper to St. Mary's, can rely on his work to defend their clients. Protecting the rights of citizens is hard work and Scott's dedication to the Constitution helps to bring justice to those who deserve it and fairness to the entire court system.

    Parag Shah, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 9, 2008
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer's work.

    Erin Russell, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 11, 2008
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I am happy to endorse Scott Key's legal work. Mr. Key is an excellent attorney and a consummate professional. He provides excellent legal representation to his clients and is a conscientious member of the legal community. He is devoted to zealous and ethical representation of his clients.