Our firm is proud to work closely with Attorney Richard Sarrell of Blairsville, Georgia, in an “of counsel” relationship. This means that while Richard maintains his own independent law practice, he and Daniel collaborate on many cases in an official capacity. For our clients, this arrangement brings the best of both worlds: the personal attention of a small firm, strengthened by the combined experience, insight, and resources of two seasoned attorneys working together. Richard grew up in Blairsville, Georgia, and graduated from Union County High School. After high school, he attended Mercer University, where he graduated with honors. He then attended Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law in Birmingham, Alabama. While in law school, he participated in numerous mock trial and dispute resolution competitions and was heavily involved in student government. He began practicing law in Blairsville and has remained in Blairsville for his entire career. Outside of work, Richard enjoys cooking, watching college football, and traveling.

As a partner in one of the largest law firms in North Georgia, Rustin defended insurance companies and large businesses before co-founding Smith Hulsey. He has handled cases in both federal and state courts, appearing in U.S. District Courts and counties throughout Georgia. He has argued before the Supreme Court of Georgia, and litigated appeals in the Georgia Court of Appeals and U.S. Court of Appeals, 11th Circuit. Rustin graduated magna cum laude from the University of Georgia before attending Emory University School of Law, where he was selected for the Dean’s List, received the Dean’s Award, and was recommended for the Kesler-Eidson Trial Techniques Scholarship. Rustin has served on multiple Hall County nonprofit boards, was elected Gainesville Jaycee of the Year in 2011, and was a member of the 2015 State Bar Young Lawyer’s Leadership Academy. Since 2018, other Georgia attorneys have elected Rustin as a “Rising Star” as featured in Super Lawyers magazine.