The Jolt: Brian Kemp named a high-clout judicial commission. Here’s the law firm that won

On Thursday, Gov. Brian Kemp announced his selected 25 attorneys who will make up one of the most influential bodies under his oversight — the Judicial Nominating Commission, which builds short lists for vacancies on court benches throughout the state.

It’s fair to say that the Robbins Firm, former home to executive counsel David Dove, came out on top. Vincent Russo, a current member of the Robbins Firm, was appointed one of three co-chairs. Also named to the commission was Ryan Teague, who served as counsel to former Gov. Nathan Deal and is also a member of the Robbins Firm.

Here’s one of the more interesting passages about the Robbins Firm’s approach, drawn from its website:

“We know how and when to disorient and disarm the competition, making traditional playbook moves increasingly irrelevant.

“We look at all aspects your business and legal problem with a creative perspective, not just the facts or the law. We find leverage points we can effectively use against the other side.

“We understand opposing counsel, the judge, and the judge’s track record in similar matters. Where appropriate, we also look for regulatory or legislative solutions.”

Other notable members named to the commission:

• Derek Bottoms, a Home Depot vice president and husband of Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms;
• Chatham County District Attorney Meg Heap;
• Robert Highsmith, who served on the JNC for more than a decade; under both governors Nathan Deal and Sonny Perdue;
• Darrell Sutton, president-elect of the State Bar of Georgia;
• Former House member Beth Beskin, R-Atlanta;
• Fulton County Superior Court Judge Shawn LaGrua;
• And Georgia Supreme Court Justice Michael Boggs.