Four generations of Carlisle attorneys and judges have served Georgia for over a century. At Carlisle Law, I continue that tradition with the same commitment to justice and service that defined the practice of law in my family since 1911.
A Century of Service
The Carlisle legal tradition began over a century ago in Cairo, Georgia, when Ira Carlisle was admitted to the Georgia Bar in 1911. What started with one determined young lawyer has grown into a family legacy spanning four generations of attorneys and judges who have served communities across Georgia.
Today, Betsey Carlisle Beasley carries forward that tradition from Richmond Hill, Georgia, combining the values instilled by generations of Carlisle lawyers with a modern, client-centered approach to legal practice.
The Carlisle Legal Legacy
First Generation
Judge Ira Carlisle (1885-1973) (Granddaddy Carlisle)
The Foundation
Ira Carlisle was admitted to the Georgia Bar in 1911, beginning what would become a remarkable legal dynasty. His career of public service included:
- Solicitor, Cairo Municipal Court
- Judge, Cairo Municipal Court
- Georgia State Representative
- Georgia State Senator
- Judge, Georgia Court of Appeals (1952-1963)
Judge Ira Carlisle’s eleven years on the Georgia Court of Appeals represented the pinnacle of a career devoted to justice and public service. He set the standard that every Carlisle lawyer since has strived to uphold.
Second Generation
Judge Edwin Carlisle (Uncle Ebby)
Continuing the Judicial Tradition
Following in his father’s footsteps, Edwin Carlisle served as a Municipal Court Judge in Cairo, Georgia, maintaining the family’s commitment to fair and impartial justice in their community.
Judge Ralph Ewell Carlisle (1916-2015) (Pop Pop)
A Legacy of Leadership
Ralph Ewell Carlisle built a distinguished legal career that culminated in judicial service:
- DeKalb County State Court Judge (1976-1987)
- President, Council of State Court Judges of Georgia
- Recognized for his leadership in Georgia’s judicial community
Third Generation
William Ralph Carlisle, Sr.
Father
William Ralph Carlisle, Sr. practiced law in Georgia, passing down the family’s love of law and advocacy to the next generation before his tragic passing in the early 1980s.
Robert Carlisle
Uncle Robert
Robert Carlisle also practiced as an attorney in Georgia, expanding the family’s legal presence and continuing the tradition of service before his early passing.
Fourth Generation – Today
Elizabeth “Betsey” Carlisle Beasley
Carlisle Law Firm, Richmond Hill
Betsey is a member of the fourth generation of Carlisle attorneys, practicing in Richmond Hill, Georgia. She honors her family’s legacy while bringing her own approach to legal practice—one that values a client-centered approach by combining innovative client care and professional excellence.
Her credentials include:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.)
- Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.)
- Certified Mediator: General Civil, Domestic Relations, Domestic Violence
- Georgia Bar No. 567510
- Admitted to the Supreme Court of Georgia
- Georgia Court of Appeals
- United States District Court for the Southern District of Georgia
William R. Carlisle Jr. (Brother)
Carlisle Law Firm, Flowery Branch
William R. Carlisle Jr. also practices law in Georgia, continuing the family tradition in his own practice. Also, practicing under the name Carlisle Law Firm, he has specialized in civil litigation, particularly debt consumer law and complex contract cases, for 30 years. William R. Carlisle can be reached at https://www.debt-defender.com.
Values That Endure
From Judge Ira Carlisle’s first day in practice in 1911 to Betsey’s work today, certain values have remained constant in the Carlisle approach to law:
Integrity Above All
Our word is our bond. We do what we say we’ll do, and we’re honest even when the truth is difficult.
Service to Community
Law is a profession of service. We’re here to help people navigate difficult situations, not to profit from their troubles.
Respect for Everyone
Every client deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of the circumstances.
Excellence in Advocacy
When we take on a case, we give it everything we have. Our clients deserve nothing less.
“Legal Services Rooted in Southern Hospitality Since 1911”
Continue the Conversation
We’re proud of our legacy, but our focus is always on the future—specifically, on how we can help you with your legal needs today.