David R. Willingham

With over 17 years of experience, David R. Willingham is one of Georgia’s most accomplished criminal jury trial lawyers, renowned for his expertise in all areas of criminal defense, felony prosecution, and complex civil litigation.

In 2016, Mr. Willingham secured a landmark victory in Zilke v. State, 299 Ga. 232 (2016), overturning 30 years of flawed Georgia precedent that improperly expanded police territorial jurisdiction. Taken pro bono due to its significance, the case garnered widespread media attention. Other notable cases include State v. Peabody, A17A1258 (Ga. Ct. App. 2017), and Marchman v. State, 299 Ga. 534 (2016), a double murder case he prosecuted, which was affirmed on appeal.

Mr. Willingham’s career began with recognition at Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, where he earned the Harold R. Banke Advocacy Award in 2008 for his potential to become an exceptional litigator. Early in his career, while at a Marietta firm under Robert D. Leonard, II (now a Cobb County Superior Court judge), he achieved an unprecedented streak of 12 consecutive “Not Guilty” jury verdicts, primarily in DUI cases, which caught the attention of everyone in the Cobb County – and Georgia – legal community. During this time, he completed the Georgia State Bar’s Young Lawyers Leadership Academy and served as an adjunct professor at John Marshall Law School, teaching mock trial.

From 2011 to 2013, Mr. Willingham served as an Assistant District Attorney in the Cobb Judicial Circuit under District Attorneys Patrick H. Head and D. Victor Reynolds. Prosecuting a wide range of felony cases—including murder, armed robbery, and financial racketeering—he gained critical insights into the criminal justice system while working in the courtroom of retired Judge James G. Bodiford.

In 2013, Mr. Willingham founded Willingham Law Firm, P.C., with a mission to deliver exceptional representation and results for clients facing legal challenges. The firm has since helped thousands navigate criminal charges, wrongful accusations, or family transitions, earning a reputation for zealous, client-focused and successful advocacy. In 2017, Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr. admitted him to practice before the United States Supreme Court.

Outside the courtroom, David cherishes time with his three daughters, plays guitar in a rock band, and cheers for Georgia sports teams and enjoys being an avid UFC fan. He actively engages with the community as a frequent speaker on alcohol and drug risk awareness for fraternities and sororities and serves as an alumni advisor for Pi Kappa Alpha at Kennesaw State University.