Gov. Kay Ivey appointed Azzie Melton Oliver, J.D., an alumna of Alabama State University, as Montgomery County’s first Black district attorney on Tuesday, Nov. 12, marking a historic milestone in the county’s more than 200-year history. Oliver, chosen to complete the term of retiring District Attorney Daryl Bailey, described the appointment as humbling and a testament to progress made since the civil rights movement.
“My mom participated in the Selma to Montgomery march, and my dad endured a lot during the Civil Rights Movement,” Oliver said. “It brings me joy to know their sacrifices weren’t in vain. I hope my role inspires others to pursue their dreams. It shows that with hard work, focus and good character, it’s possible to achieve what you set out to do, despite the challenges.”
Oliver, who earned her degree in criminal justice at the university, credits her alma mater with preparing her for her legal career. She reflected on the influence of her professors, including Karen Taylor, J.D., who set high expectations for students.
“The professors at ASU didn’t let us take shortcuts,” she said. “Dr. Taylor’s courses on briefing cases were tough, but they prepared me to survive in law school. Those experiences shaped my career and gave me the foundation to be in this seat today.”
Now, facing the challenges of a rise in violent crime, Oliver said her focus as district attorney will go beyond prosecution to address underlying issues in the community.
“We have a lot of unstable homes and parents not parenting,” she said. “The education system also needs improvement. Stabilizing families and supporting children are essential to reducing crime. By addressing these foundational problems, we can create lasting change.”
Oliver emphasized the role of mentorship and community engagement in guiding young people, particularly those at historically Black colleges and universities. Drawing from her own experience as an intern while attending the university, she said exposure to professionals in the legal and law enforcement fields was pivotal.
“I had the opportunity to meet prosecutors, judges and law enforcement officers during my internships,” she said. “Those interactions helped solidify my decision to go to law school and pursue a career in public service. Having mentors and role models who students can look up to makes a huge difference.”
She encouraged current students to seek internships and volunteer opportunities to gain real-world experience and determine their career paths.
“Internships can show you what you’re cut out for, and sometimes what you’re not,” she said. “Public service isn’t a path to wealth, but it’s incredibly fulfilling. Find a mentor, someone who’s doing what you aspire to do, and build a network with them. That guidance can help you decide if this future is for you.”
Reflecting on her career, Oliver said the cases involving victims of sexual assault or families of homicide victims have had the greatest impact on her.
“Those cases pull at my heartstrings,” she said. “They remind me why I do what I do. Preparing for those cases and advocating for justice for victims and their families is what drives me every day.”
Oliver also acknowledged the importance of criminal justice reform in improving the system for everyone.
“The system is only as good as the people in it,” she said. “We need good prosecutors, ethical public defenders and professionals in probation and parole who care about what they’re doing. Building a system with people of good character who are truly committed to justice is the first step toward meaningful reform.”
As Montgomery continues to evolve, Oliver said her appointment reflects the progress made while underscoring the work that remains.
“Montgomery has a legacy of civil rights, and being appointed as district attorney in this city means a lot to me,” she said. “We’ve come a long way, but we still have a long way to go. I hope my daughters and others see that if they work hard, focus on helping others and stay true to their values, they can achieve what they set out to do.”
