Former Cobb County Chief Assistant District Attorney Mike Carlson started a new job Thursday at the Georgia Bureau of Investigation as chief legal counsel, the GBI's spokeswoman said.

Before he left his old job, Carlson received a warm sendoff from Acting District Attorney John Melvin.

“At the Cobb DA's Office, we bid farewell this week to my friend, Chief Assistant DA Mike Carlson, who is joining the Georgia Bureau of Investigation as Chief Legal Counsel,” Melvin said in a LinkedIn post. “Mr. Carlson's contribution to State of Georgia cannot be overstated. As a trial attorney, Mr. Carlson has achieved justice for thousands of victims. As a leading gang prosecutor in this state and as the head of the Cobb County Appellate Unit, Mr. Carlson influenced the direction of Georgia law which will have a lasting impact for years to come. His greatest impact, however, has been on his commitment to training. In that arena, Mike's contributions have impacted generations of attorneys and law enforcement. In the words of scripture: 'Well done thou good and faithful servant.'”

Carlson has handled trial and appellate work for the DA's office. He is also an author and lecturer on evidence rules, trial practice and anti-gang laws. He is a graduate of Washington & Lee University School of Law. He's been practicing law for 27 years.

Carlson responded in his own LinkedIn post: “What a privilege to be honored by Acting Cobb District Attorney John Melvin for my prosecutorial career as I embark on my new position with the GBI.”

The two could be together again soon, once Gov. Brian Kemp appoints a permanent replacement for former Cobb DA Vic Reynolds, who is now the GBI's executive director. Reynolds has already announced plans to hire Melvin as GBI chief of staff.