Ardis Law Expands with Veteran Litigator and Bankruptcy Attorney

Former Fulton County Superior Court Judge Michael D. Johnson and creditors' rights expert John Rezac join the firm

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Ardis Law LLP announces that John K. Rezac, an experienced creditors' rights and bankruptcy attorney, and Michael D. Johnson, a veteran litigator and former Fulton County Superior Court judge, have joined the firm. The addition of these two accomplished attorneys further strengthens Ardis Law's commitment to providing clients with sophisticated legal counsel combined with the responsiveness and cost-effectiveness that sets the firm apart in Atlanta's legal market.

Why it matters

The hires of Johnson and Rezac demonstrate Ardis Law's strategic growth model, which aims to attract top legal talent that can enhance the firm's capabilities in high-stakes litigation, creditors' rights, and bankruptcy - key practice areas for businesses and individuals in the Atlanta market. The firm's values-driven approach and innovative structure have proven effective in recruiting seasoned attorneys who prioritize client service and collaboration.

The details

Michael D. Johnson brings a unique perspective shaped by nearly seven years as a Superior Court judge in Fulton County, as well as extensive experience as a litigator representing individuals, small and mid-sized businesses, and Fortune 500 companies. John K. Rezac has spent his career building a distinguished practice in creditors' rights and bankruptcy law, leveraging his prior experience in the financial services industry to provide practical, business-oriented counsel to his clients.

  • Michael D. Johnson served as a Superior Court judge in Fulton County for nearly seven years.
  • John K. Rezac has been recognized by peers as Georgia Trend's 'Legal Elite' in Bankruptcy/Creditors' Rights for multiple years and was selected as one of The Best Lawyers in America (2026).

The players

Michael D. Johnson

A veteran litigator and former Fulton County Superior Court judge who joins Ardis Law after a career spanning public service and complex litigation.

John K. Rezac

An experienced creditors' rights and bankruptcy attorney who joins Ardis Law from Taylor Duma LLP, bringing a unique understanding of the financial services industry.

Ardis Law LLP

An Atlanta-based law firm that offers a broad array of services including litigation, employer and executive counseling, commercial real estate, leasing and lending services, creditors' rights and bankruptcy, and a robust hospitality/alcohol and regulated products practice.

Kerry Stumpe

The CEO of Ardis Law, who notes that the additions of Johnson and Rezac validate the firm's vision of delivering outstanding results while creating a workplace grounded in values centered around integrity and excellence.

Michele Stumpe

The Managing Partner of Ardis Law, who was recently named one of Atlanta's 500 Most Powerful Leaders by Atlanta Magazine.

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What they’re saying

“Having served as both a judge and a trial lawyer, I know what makes a law firm truly effective. Ardis Law has created something special here—a platform that supports experienced attorneys in doing their best work without the overhead and inefficiencies that can hinder client service at larger firms.”

— Michael D. Johnson, Partner at Ardis Law

“Ardis Law has created something rare: a sophisticated platform with the agility to serve clients efficiently and creatively. I was drawn to the firm's values, its commitment to practical solutions, and the opportunity to build with people who care about both excellence and how we treat clients and one another.”

— John K. Rezac, Partner at Ardis Law

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The additions of Michael D. Johnson and John K. Rezac to Ardis Law's team demonstrate the firm's strategic growth model, which aims to attract top legal talent that can enhance the firm's capabilities in high-stakes litigation, creditors' rights, and bankruptcy - key practice areas for businesses and individuals in the Atlanta market. Ardis Law's values-driven approach and innovative structure have proven effective in recruiting seasoned attorneys who prioritize client service and collaboration.