Marttala retires following distinguished Law Career

Susan Marttala broke the gender barrier as the first female District Attorney in Tennessee history.

Now, after a distinguished 40-year law career, Susan has retired. The last 12 years of her career were spent with the Public Defender’s Office.

“Susan is as good as they come – as a lawyer and a person,” said Public Defender John Partin. “She’s a trailblazer.”

Susan began her law career in 1986. It was in February 1990 when she experienced a defining moment. Buck Ramsey resigned as District Attorney, and six days later Gov. Ned McWherter appointed Marttala to the job.

McWherter’s decision was cheered, and state Sen. Jerry Cooper was one of the many who applauded the move.

“She is a very astute, intelligent, and energetic young lady who will serve the people of Warren and Van Buren counties with integrity and dedication,” Cooper said in the Feb. 7, 1990 edition of the Southern Standard.

When she wasn’t District Attorney, Susan had her own law firm, Marttala & Marttala, that she operated with husband David. She went to work for Galligan & Newman in 1996 and went with John Partin to the Public Defender’s Office when he was first elected in 2014.

“It’s going to be a little odd not working with Susan,” said Partin. “I’ve practiced law for 26 years and I’ve worked with her every day. We worked together at Galligan & Newman and she came with me here when I was elected Public Defender. I’m certainly going to miss her.”

Thursday was Susan’s last day at the Public Defender’s Office. She enjoyed a groundbreaking career and represented Warren County with excellence!