In recognition of the fact that attorneys are officers of the courts of this state; that they have the exclusive right to practice law and represent members of the public in connection with their legal affairs; that they are charged with important responsibilities in connection with the administration of justice both in and out of the courts; and that for these reasons a strong legal profession is in the public interest, the Supreme Court of this state is authorized to establish as an administrative arm of the court a unified self-governing bar association which shall be known as the "State Bar of Georgia," composed of all persons licensed to practice law in this state.