Courtney Farmer Morgan is a dedicated and seasoned criminal defense attorney with an extensive track record of success in high-stakes felony litigation. As an Associate Attorney at W. Scott Smith, Courtney brings a wealth of experience gained from years of defending clients facing the most serious criminal charges. Courtney’s passion for justice is evident in her impressive trial history and awarded by National Trial Lawyer’s Top 40 Under 40 multiple years in a row.
Prior to joining W. Scott Smith, she established The Morgan Law Firm LLC, a boutique criminal defense practice focused on defending individuals charged with violent felonies. Within her firm’s first year, she litigated four murder trials, showcasing her commitment to providing an aggressive and strategic defense for her clients.
Before launching her own practice, Courtney served as a Senior Assistant Public Defender with the Georgia Public Defender Council for over six years. In that role, she handled over thirty felony jury trials, including multiple murder cases and complex life-imprisonment trials. Her courtroom skills and dedication to protecting her clients’ constitutional rights led to a significant victory in Reese v. State, where the Georgia Supreme Court reversed and vacated a murder conviction based on her arguments at trial.
Courtney’s legal career began with hands-on experience in some of the most challenging defense environments. She externed with the St. Louis County Public Defender’s Office, where she received the CALI Award for outstanding performance in pre-trial motions and advocacy. She also interned with the Georgia Capital Defender’s Office, assisting in death penalty cases, and worked with Legal Aid South Africa, gaining international experience in high court criminal defense.
Her academic background is equally distinguished. Courtney earned her law degree from the prestigious Washington University in St. Louis School of Law, where she was a Merit-Based Scholar and an active member of the Public Service Advisory Board. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Philosophy from Texas Lutheran University, where she graduated cum laude and captained the NCAA Women’s Soccer team.
Courtney is a fierce advocate for her clients, believing that every person deserves a strong defense, no matter the circumstances. Her extensive trial experience, deep legal knowledge, and unwavering commitment to justice make her a powerful force in the courtroom.
When she’s not in the courtroom, Courtney is a devoted wife and mother of two, balancing the demands of fierce advocacy with cherished family time. She has been a dedicated volunteer with the Humane Society since the age of 14 and continues to support animal welfare efforts. Whether inside or outside the courtroom, Courtney remains steadfast in her mission: to fight for those who need it most, ensuring justice is not just a principle, but a reality.
