Savannah Loses a Legal Luminary: Remembering the Impact of Spencer Lawton Jr.

Savannah Mourns the Loss of a Legal Legend

Savannah, Ga. – The charming streets of Savannah have lost a guiding light in the legal community. Spencer Lawton Jr., a notable figure in the fight for crime victims’ rights and a distinguished former district attorney, has passed away at the age of 81. He died at his home on a calm Wednesday, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by many.

A Visionary Attorney

Lawton’s journey began as a young attorney practicing privately, but it wasn’t long before he sought a greater role in serving his community. He was elected as the Chatham County district attorney in 1980, a position he held with pride for nearly three decades until his retirement in 2008. Throughout his time in office, he became recognized not just for his prosecutorial skills but also for his deep compassion for victims of crime.

Those who worked alongside him, like Meg Heap, an assistant prosecutor under Lawton, have fond memories of his commitment to bringing justice. “You stand on the side of right and you bring justice for somebody who would not otherwise get it,” Heap said, embodying Lawton’s tireless dedication to victims, often those who felt forgotten in the system.

Championing Victims’ Rights

One of Lawton’s most significant contributions was creating a program that helped crime victims navigate the convoluted court system. This initiative not only provided victims with crucial information about their cases but also the emotional support they desperately needed. As Pete Skandalakis, executive director of the Georgia Prosecuting Attorneys Council, noted, “Before these programs, victims really had no one to talk to.” Under Lawton’s guidance, the victim-witness assistance program became a model for the rest of the state, inspiring several others to follow suit.

As he moved through his career, Lawton’s advocacy efforts expanded further. He was instrumental in the passage of a pivotal 2010 law that empowered victims to voice their experiences during sentencing hearings. This remarkable legislation also ensured that victims were kept informed about significant developments in their cases, including any movements regarding their offenders.

The Infamous Murder Case

Despite his vast work on behalf of victims, Lawton is perhaps most famously linked to an infamous murder case shortly after he took office. In 1981, antiques dealer Jim Williams fatally shot his lover, Danny Hansford. The case saw Lawton taking the reins, ultimately prosecuting it over four trials, each with its own twists and turns that captured national attention.

Williams claimed self-defense, but suspicions arose that he had manipulated the crime scene. Lawton’s challenge was formidable, facing multiple reversals and a hung jury before Williams was acquitted in 1989. The saga would go on to be immortalized in John Berendt’s 1994 bestseller, “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” which painted Lawton as a fierce adversary in the courtroom.

A Lasting Legacy

Though this particular case may overshadow some of his achievements, colleagues remember Lawton for his steadfast commitment to justice and support for victims. David Lock, who was Lawton’s chief assistant, reflected, “He brought professionalism to any endeavor he undertook.” Lock also believes that the portrayal of Lawton in the book and subsequent movie was unrepresentative of his character and contributions.

As Savannah says goodbye to this legal titan, it’s clear that Spencer Lawton Jr.’s impact on the community will live on. From his groundbreaking work for victims’ rights to his role in high-profile cases, his influence shaped a better, more just legal environment for those who needed it most.

Rest in peace, Spencer Lawton Jr. You will be missed but never forgotten.