In a spontaneous encounter in Atlanta, a passionate fan ran into Brian Steele, the defense attorney famous for representing rapper Young Thug. “Keep doing what you’re doing, my boy!” an appreciative fan exclaimed. A few passersby documented the moment to show how Steele won the admiration of Young Thug’s followers, who view him as the pivotal figure responsible for the recent release of the rap musician.
Brian Steele is already a feared defense attorney, and that reputation only increases with each new development in Young Thug’s highly publicized case. Known for his dogged determination and unflinching legal prowess, Steele spearheaded the rapper’s release after a grueling two-year battle. His fans have also praised Steele’s tenacity, citing how he often met salacious strategies from the prosecution with creative, daring defenses.
Steele’s career as an attorney launched in 1991. Over the past three decades, Steele has earned a national reputation in state and federal courts. He became nationally recognized for his unwavering preparation, creative legal arguments, and impressive skill in appellate cases. Throughout the years, Steele has prevailed in various high-risk trials and is renowned for his uncanny ability to secure favorable resolutions in cases labeled ‘unwinnable’ by his peers. His commitment to his clients has earned him a reputation as one of Georgia’s most respected criminal defense attorneys.
Young Thug, born Jeffery Lamar Williams, was indicted on serious charges: violating Georgia’s RICO Act. Prosecutors maintained he was conducting organized crime with the group Young Slime Life, YSL, for short-tied conspiracy, drug, and gun charges. The case, one of the longest-running in Georgia, became a media sensation because the stakes were high, and the accusations were grave against the rapper.
Steele’s attempt to defend Young Thug was littered with bold moves. He put the rapper on a non-negotiated plea, whereby the sentencing remained squarely with the judge—a very risky move. He strongly opposed the prosecution’s use of Young Thug’s lyrics as evidence, terming it misrepresentation and an unfair attack on poor forms of expression. Controversy in the line of defense came up: free speech through artistic license in criminal trials.
Ultimately, Steele’s efforts helped Young Thug secure a plea deal. Young Thug pleaded guilty to some charges on Oct. 31, 2024, with other counts being dismissed. He was given a sentence of time served by the judge. After serving 900 days in custody, Young Thug was released and had an additional 15 years on probation record. Steele’s influence in guiding the case to this resolution nailed his contributions as one main character in Young Thug’s release, which was taken with wild fanfare.
The public’s reaction has been great, with fans flooding social media as they continue to praise Steele’s work. Many have even gone as far as to compare Steele to Saul Goodman, the fictional Breaking Bad lawyer who became a fan favorite with his unorthodox/brilliant courtroom antics. His success earned him waves of admiration, and many referred to him as a “legend” and even a “hero” since he was determined to defend his client against all odds.
