ATLANTA (January 2, 2014) — Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP is pleased to announce the addition of John R. Autry to its partnership effective January 1, 2014.

Mr. Autry is a partner in the firm’s Atlanta office.  Focusing his practice in commercial litigation, he is also a key member of the firm’s Special Assets group. He has represented numerous lenders in both state and federal court in all aspects of litigation involving troubled assets. Mr. Autry has particular expertise in Georgia’s real estate foreclosure and confirmation process, having served as lead counsel in numerous foreclosure confirmation proceedings involving multi-million dollar commercial assets. Mr. Autry received his Bachelor of Music degree, cum laude, from Samford University in 1994. Following a successful career as a professional opera singer, he earned a J.D. degree, cum laude, from the University of Georgia School of Law in 2003. He is admitted to practice in state and federal courts in Georgia. Mr. Autry joined SGR in 2003 and served as an Associate prior to becoming a partner.