In her role as Chief Legal Officer, Patel’s responsibilities include conducting risk assessments, managing high-impact litigation, and strategic decision-making. She also oversees Communications and Legislative Affairs teams ensuring unified messaging and marketing in support of the Department’s mission.

Patel has more than a decade of experience as a lawyer for the Department. She previously served as Director of Legal Services and as a Staff Attorney.

Her expertise and insight have been instrumental in shaping the department's strategic direction. She has been a driving force in mitigating risks and ensuring alignment with federal and state regulations. Her proactive approach has resulted in substantial cost savings for the Department while also increasing access to services for individuals.

Patel is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan. Her commitment to professional development and leadership is reflected in her many professional affiliations and accolades:  she was selected to the State Bar of Georgia’s Young Lawyers Division Leadership Academy, she serves as a mentor for high school and college students who are exploring a career in law, and she was a Washington Leadership Program Scholar. She has also provided several continuing legal education courses on the intersection of behavioral health and the law.

In serving as Assistant Commissioner and Chief Legal Officer, Patel is honored to be in a position to continue to develop a system that affords individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or behavioral health diagnoses access to high-quality care in the least restrictive setting.