Georgia Cappleman: A Distinguished Career in Justice and Advocacy
Georgia Cappleman is a highly respected prosecutor and Chief Assistant State Attorney in the Office of the State Attorney for Florida’s Second Judicial Circuit, based in Tallahassee. With more than two decades of experience in the legal profession, she has established herself as a leading trial attorney, educator, and advocate for victims of crime. Her career reflects both legal excellence and a personal commitment to justice, fairness, and community service.
Cappleman is widely known for handling high-profile cases, supervising felony divisions, and mentoring the next generation of legal professionals. Beyond the courtroom, she dedicates her energy to teaching, coaching, and serving nonprofit organizations that support survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Education and Early Foundations
Florida State University Roots
Georgia Cappleman’s path to becoming a leading prosecutor began with her academic journey at Florida State University. She earned her Doctor of Law (JD) degree from the FSU College of Law between 1998 and 2001. Her education provided a strong foundation in legal principles, advocacy, and courtroom procedures.
Certified Public Manager Program
In addition to her law degree, Cappleman completed the Certified Public Manager program at FSU. This program is designed to strengthen leadership, management, and problem-solving skills for professionals serving in government roles. This additional certification reflects her dedication not only to practicing law but also to leading effectively within the justice system.
Career at the State Attorney’s Office
Entry into Public Service
Cappleman joined the State Attorney’s Office in March 2001 as a Deputy Assistant State Attorney. Although her first month was short-lived in the junior role, she quickly advanced due to her skills, determination, and courtroom presence.
Rise to Chief Assistant State Attorney
Over the years, Georgia Cappleman climbed the ranks to become the Chief Assistant State Attorney. For more than 24 years, she has worked tirelessly in this capacity, leading the felony division and supervising a significant caseload.
Her responsibilities include managing around 100 cases at a time, many of which involve sexual assault, violent crime, and homicide. These cases demand not only technical expertise but also emotional resilience and compassion for victims and their families.
Reputation as a Trial Attorney
Colleagues, peers, and community members recognize Cappleman as an expert trial attorney. She is known for her thorough preparation, sharp courtroom arguments, and unwavering dedication to justice. Her reputation has also grown through her role in high-profile cases that received statewide and even national media coverage.
The Office of the State Attorney
Mission and Role in the Justice System
The Office of the State Attorney plays a critical role in Florida’s criminal justice system. Prosecutors represent the people of the state, working to ensure that laws are upheld and justice is delivered. As Chief Assistant, Cappleman serves as a leader within this office, guiding junior attorneys, overseeing trial strategies, and maintaining the highest professional standards.
Supervisory Duties
Her supervisory position requires balancing management responsibilities with active courtroom advocacy. She mentors younger attorneys, reviews case strategies, and provides guidance on ethical considerations. This dual role as both supervisor and trial attorney showcases her versatility and leadership.
Advocacy and Community Service
Refuge House Involvement
One of the hallmarks of Cappleman’s career is her commitment to community advocacy. For more than 10 years, she has served on the Board of Refuge House, an organization that provides housing, counseling, and other essential services for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
During her time on the board, she has served in multiple leadership roles, including President, Vice President, and Resource Development Co-Chair. This long-term involvement reflects her dedication to helping vulnerable populations both inside and outside the courtroom.
Teaching and Mentoring
Cappleman also contributes to the academic side of the legal profession. She is an Adjunct Professor of Juvenile Justice at the FSU College of Law and a Mock Trial Coach. These roles allow her to pass on valuable insights to law students and aspiring attorneys, preparing them for careers in prosecution, defense, or other legal fields.
By serving as both coach and professor, she bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world courtroom experience. Her students not only learn legal theories but also the practical skills needed to succeed as trial attorneys.
Georgia Cappleman as a Leader
Leadership Qualities
Cappleman is widely respected for her leadership style, which combines firm accountability with empathy. Her colleagues often describe her as approachable, fair, and willing to mentor younger attorneys. At the same time, her reputation for toughness in the courtroom underscores her commitment to protecting victims and upholding justice.
Recognition and Awards
Over the years, she has been recognized for her performance and contributions to the legal field. Awards such as the Eugene Berry Award highlight her professional excellence and dedication to public service.
Who Is Georgia Cappleman Beyond the Courtroom?
While her professional identity is tied strongly to the State Attorney’s Office, Georgia Cappleman is also deeply rooted in the Tallahassee community. She balances her demanding career with family life and her ongoing service to nonprofit organizations.
Her work ethic, compassion for victims, and dedication to public service make her a role model not only for attorneys but for anyone committed to serving their community.
The Legacy of Service
Two Decades of Justice
With over 24 years in the State Attorney’s Office, Georgia Cappleman’s career reflects more than just legal expertise. It demonstrates a lifetime of service to the people of Florida, a commitment to advocacy, and a dedication to mentoring others in the legal profession.
Looking Forward
As she continues her work, Cappleman’s influence will remain felt in courtrooms, classrooms, and community organizations throughout Florida. Her career serves as a reminder that the role of a prosecutor goes beyond winning cases—it is about seeking justice, supporting victims, and building a safer community for everyone.
Conclusion
Georgia Cappleman stands out as one of Florida’s most respected prosecutors. Her combination of legal expertise, leadership within the State Attorney’s Office, and commitment to advocacy through organizations like Refuge House illustrates a career devoted to service.
From her education at Florida State University College of Law to her decades of experience handling some of the state’s most serious cases, Cappleman has built a legacy grounded in justice, compassion, and community leadership.
In every role she takes on—whether as a trial attorney, mentor, professor, or advocate—Georgia Cappleman embodies the ideals of public service and demonstrates the profound impact that one dedicated professional can make on both the legal system and society at large.
