Episode 51 – Georgia Lawyers for the Rule of Law with Seth Kirschenbaum and Lynne Borsuk
Episode 51 – Georgia Lawyers for the Rule of Law with Seth Kirschenbaum and Lynne Borsuk
Why Georgia Lawyers Are Standing Up for the Rule of Law
In this episode of See You In Court, co-hosts Robin Frazer Clark and Lester Tate welcome two respected criminal defense attorneys, Seth Kirschenbaum and Lynne Borsuk. Together, they introduce a new initiative called Georgia Lawyers for the Rule of Law.
This group began as a grassroots effort. Today, it includes more than 400 attorneys from across the state. Their mission is simple: defend judicial independence, protect due process, and remind Georgians that the rule of law belongs to everyone.
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Why the Rule of Law Matters in Georgia
Seth and Lynne explain why defending the rule of law has never been more urgent. Judges and lawyers across the country face threats, intimidation, and unfair criticism. In Georgia, this new organization stands up to say: we will not stay silent.
Respecting court rulings—even when we disagree—keeps our system stable. Without that respect, public trust begins to break down. And when judges cannot defend themselves, lawyers must step forward.
How the Movement Began
The idea formed during discussions among concerned attorneys. Early attacks on judges and lawyers made many realize the profession needed an organized voice. As a result, Georgia Lawyers for the Rule of Law was born.
From the start, the group decided to act. They now publish opinion pieces, speak at civic events, and plan future legal advocacy. Their goal is to show Georgians that justice depends on courts free from fear and political pressure.
The Threats Facing Lawyers and Judges
This episode highlights real-world risks. Judges have faced threats of violence. Some lawyers and law firms were pressured because of the clients they represented. In certain cases, large firms gave in to that pressure.
As Lynne Borsuk explains, this is dangerous. Lawyers must be free to represent unpopular clients. Otherwise, the profession loses its independence. Moreover, citizens lose confidence in a system that should treat all people equally.
Civic Education and Community Outreach
The group is not only reacting to threats. It is also focused on education. Members plan to visit schools, churches, and civic groups to explain why the rule of law protects everyone.
As Seth notes, you do not have to agree with a decision to respect it. The courts exist to resolve disputes. By respecting rulings and appealing when necessary, citizens preserve the system that protects their rights.
Episode Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to See You In Court Podcast
Overview of the Georgia civil justice system and today’s focus on the rule of law.
01:00 – Meet the Hosts: Robin Frazer Clark & Lester Tate
Lighthearted opening, college football banter, and preview of today’s guests.
03:00 – Guest Introductions: Seth Kirschenbaum & Lynne Borsuk
Background on two of Georgia’s top criminal defense attorneys and leaders in the legal community.
06:00 – Founding Georgia Lawyers for the Rule of Law
How the organization started in response to threats against judges and lawyers.
09:00 – Defending Judicial Independence and Due Process
Why protecting courts, judges, and the principle of due process is essential to democracy.
12:00 – Attacks on the Legal Profession and Intimidation of Lawyers
Examples of how pressure on lawyers and firms threatens fairness.
15:00 – Civic Education and Community Outreach
Plans for outreach in schools, churches, and civic groups.
18:00 – The Role of Judges and the Importance of Respecting Court Rulings
Why criticism is fair—but threats undermine the justice system.
22:00 – Speaking Out in a Climate of Fear
How silence weakens democracy, and why speaking up matters.
28:00 – Immigration, Due Process, and ICE Enforcement Issues
Concerns about masked arrests and erosion of rights.
34:00 – Growth of Georgia Lawyers for the Rule of Law
Expanding membership and long-term goals.
38:00 – Chief Justice Nels Peterson on the Rule of Law
Why state leaders are reinforcing constitutional principles.
43:00 – Communications and Advocacy Initiatives
Opinion pieces, amicus briefs, and organized responses to attacks.
48:00 – What Happens When the Rule of Law Breaks Down
Lessons from Hong Kong, Navalny, and history.
55:00 – Defining Justice: Perspectives from Seth & Lynne
Personal definitions of justice and fairness in court.
01:04:00 – Closing Thoughts and Call to Action
How Georgians can support the rule of law and get involved.
Notable Moments from Episode 51
- “We are the only organized group of lawyers in Georgia standing up for the rule of law.” – Seth Kirschenbaum
- “Judges can’t hold press conferences to defend themselves — that’s where we come in.”
- “You don’t have to agree with a ruling, but you do have to respect it.”
- “Giving in to government pressure weakens the independence of lawyers and the legal profession.” – Lynne Borsuk
- “The rule of law is neither conservative nor liberal — it is entirely nonpartisan.”
- “Justice means that everyone — rich or poor — gets a fair shot in court.”
Related Links & Resources
Episode Links
- Georgia Lawyers for the Rule of Law
- Lester Tate – Akin & Tate
- Robin Frazer Clark – Georgia Trial Lawyers
- See You In Court Podcast
- Georgia Civil Justice Foundation
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About See You In Court
See You In Court is Georgia’s leading civil justice podcast, brought to you by the Georgia Civil Justice Foundation. Our mission is to educate, inform, and empower citizens about their rights and the importance of an independent civil justice system.
The podcast is free and available anytime—because understanding justice is a right every Georgian deserves.
⚖️ Please note: The information provided on this website and within our episodes is for educational purposes only. For legal advice on your specific situation, please contact a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.
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