R. Baxter Russell
Partner
Practice Areas
Land use, zoning, application processes including rezonings, variances, special uses, political and community engagement

With nearly a decade of experience working with partners Doug Dillard and Julie Sellers, Baxter Russell utilizes his deep land use and local government knowledge for zoning matters throughout the metro-Atlanta region and in jurisdictions across Georgia. He thoroughly understands the challenges of the development and entitlement process and is a keen advocate for clients as they navigate the application process for rezoning, variances, and other land use requests.
As a former clerk for the Honorable Justice Robert Benham of the Supreme Court of Georgia, Baxter has established relationships and a solid reputation within the state’s legal system and is recognized as a rising star in land use and zoning legal matters.
Admissions + Affiliations
- State Bar of Georgia
Education
- J.D., Georgia State University College of Law
- B.A., Wofford College
Recognition
- Urban Land Institute, Center for Leadership
- Rising Star in Land Use & Zoning for 2024, Super Lawyers
- Urban Fellows, Georgia State University
- Cali Excellence for the Future Award in Intellectual Property Survey (2016)
Industry + Community Involvement
- Council for Quality Growth
- Emerging Leaders Initiative (CQG)
- Urban Land Institute (ULI) Atlanta
- Young Leaders Group, ULI Atlanta
Spare Time
A native of Winder, Georgia, Baxter enjoys supporting Atlanta’s sports teams, training with the Atlanta Track Club, and visiting local restaurants.
