Robert Wadkins, Jr., is a Columbus native who has seen firsthand the transformation the city has undergone in the last 40 years.

The son of the late, local Chief Public Defender Robert Wadkins and Columbus State University History professor, Mary Jane Wadkins, Robert knew early on that he wanted to follow in both his parents’ footsteps.

After graduating from St. Anne-Pacelli Catholic School in 2001, he went on to study History at the University of Georgia and earned his Law Degree from the University of Alabama in 2010. He promptly returned to Columbus to open his own criminal defense firm, which his father later joined. Robert has handled thousands of criminal cases in his 15-year career. After his father’s retirement, Robert merged with other local attorneys Ben Wallace and Tristan Danley to form Wadkins, Wallace & Danley where he practices today.

Committed to helping Columbus grow and evolve, Robert is consistently involved in causes and organizations that enhance our community — he is currently serving as Board Chairman for Direct Services, as coach for Brookstone High School’s Mock Trial team, as Treasurer for the Columbus Bar Association, and as Vice Chairman for the newly formed Columbus Sports and Entertainment Authority.

Robert and his wife, Kern, share two children. When they’re not cheering on their kids at Peach Little League, you can often find them rallying for the Dawgs, watching an Arsenal game, or going to a concert.