News @ Georgia Law May 2014 Alumni Profile
Name: Robert A. Whitlow
Title: Attorney
Employer Name: Sellers, Hinshaw, Ayers, Dortch & Lyons
Location: Charlotte, N.C.
Number of years there: 14
Georgia Law graduation year: 1979
Other degrees(s)/institution(s)/year(s): B.A. / Furman University / 1976
1. Why did you choose to attend the Georgia Law?
I only applied to UGA. I’m glad I was accepted!
2. Who was your favorite Georgia Law professor? Why?
I benefitted greatly from Perry Sentell’s creative energy and sharp legal analysis and Ron Ellington’s considered insight and wisdom.
3. What is your most memorable experience from your time at Georgia Law?
The first day of class, hoping I would not be called upon.
4. Where was your favorite place to study during law school?
My apartment near the coliseum. I would sit in a web lounger padded with an old sleeping bag.
5. What was your favorite thing about living in Athens?
Football, of course.
6. What advice would you give to current Georgia law students?
The practice of law is a broad field: Big firm, big city, small firm, small town, private, government. Consider all options.
7. Please give a brief description of your responsibilities as a writer/filmmaker in addition to being a practicing attorney.
I write a novel a year and serve as executive producer and co-screenwriter for the movie adaptations of the books.
8. What do you enjoy most about your job? What is the most rewarding aspect?
I have represented individuals my entire career, and the appreciation expressed by clients in a positive outcome in a case is often indescribable and very rewarding.
9. What made you decide to pursue a career in writing and film?
In 1996, I mentioned an idea for a novel to my wife, and she said, “You should do it.”
10. What is one of the greatest challenges facing your field right now?
Nothing comes to mind beyond typical challenges related to efficient time management.
11. What do you do to handle the stress of your work? How do you relax after a stressful day?
I take a 30-45 minute nap.
12. What advice would you give to someone wanting to work in your field?
Work hard at developing your skills as a writer.
13. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? What are your hobbies?
Trout fishing and spending time with my grandson who has Down syndrome.
14. If you could share an afternoon with anyone, with whom would you choose to spend it?
My wife, Kathy.
15. What would you consider your greatest accomplishment in life?
Learning how to serve others and live a less self-focused life.
16. How do you stay up to date on legal issues and trends?
Publications in my specific area of practice and CLE seminars.
17. What book/resource do you find yourself referencing the most?
The Bible. It has been the most influential book on Western civilization for a reason.
18. When you look out your office window, what do you see?
A beautiful park with a pond, all framed by the Charlotte, N.C., skyline.