The Law Firm of Lawanda Hodges

08/28/2026

Breaking It Down by The Law | Understanding Rule of Evidence 801: Non-Hearsay

Not every out-of-court statement is hearsay. Rule 801 explains when certain statements are considered non-hearsay and may be admissible in court.

Knowing the difference matters. ⚖️

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08/19/2026

Breaking It Down by The Law | Example of Rule 404(b) Use

Here’s how someone’s prior bad acts can come back into a case—if they fit an exception under Rule 404(b).

The general rule: you can’t use someone’s past just to say, “They did something bad before, so they probably did it again.”

But prior acts may be admissible for another legitimate purpose—such as proving motive, intent, knowledge, identity, or absence of mistake.

That distinction matters. ⚖️

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08/19/2026

08/07/2026

🇮🇹 One of the highlights of this year was spending time in Italy with the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School community. As a Penn Law J.D. alumna, it was an incredible opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumni and meet legal professionals from around the world.

The experience was a reminder that the law is truly global—and that we all grow by learning from one another.

The best part of all was sharing this journey with my son, Melvin Hodges III. Those memories will stay with me forever. ❤️

Grateful for the friendships, the conversations, and an unforgettable experience.

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08/04/2026

It was an honor to spend time with the attorneys of the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office discussing one of the most important protections in our Constitution—the Fourth Amendment.

As a defense attorney, being invited to present made the experience especially meaningful. While prosecutors, defense attorneys, and judges serve different roles, we all share the same responsibility: to uphold the Constitution and pursue justice with integrity.

Meaningful dialogue, continuous learning, and a willingness to challenge our own assumptions make our justice system stronger. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to that conversation and look forward to many more.

⚖️ Constitution first. Justice always.

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08/04/2026

What an incredible week at the National Bar Association’s 101st Annual Convention in Nashville! ⚖️✨

From reconnecting with dear friends and colleagues to making new connections, every moment reminded me why I love this legal community.

Highlights included hearing from former Vice President Kamala Harris, the Bridgerton-themed costume party and boat ride, my 13y old creating a “crew” at the corresponding kids’ camp, and watching my middle son earn 🥉 Third Place! in the Martin Luther King Jr. Oratorical Competition. My heart could not be fuller.

This convention was the perfect blend of inspiration, fellowship, family, and joy. Until next year, NBA! ❤️

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08/03/2026

One of the most meaningful traditions of the National Bar Association’s Annual Convention is the procession of African American judges from across the nation. It is more than a ceremonial walk—it symbolizes excellence, resilience, and the generations of lawyers and judges who broke barriers to ensure our courts better reflect the communities they serve. Watching this procession is both humbling and inspiring, reminding us of the progress that has been made and the responsibility we all have to continue advancing justice for those who follow.

Grateful to reconnect with longtime friends and colleagues, make new connections, and celebrate the legacy and future of our profession at the National Bar Association’s 101st Annual Convention in Nashville.

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03/21/2026

You may be used to seeing my middle son, Asante, as the singer and the actor, but have you seen him as the super athlete?? Bet y’all ain’t seen dat right therr (in an Atl vernacular)!

03/13/2026

Missing in action…because I’ve been busy!