Bruce H. Russell, II, a longtime Southwest Virginia attorney and former professor at the Appalachian School of Law, began his term as President-Elect of the Virginia State Bar on July 1, 2026.
Russell is expected to serve as president of the Virginia State Bar during the 2027–2028 bar year. His selection brings a strong Southwest Virginia perspective to the leadership of the organization responsible for regulating and supporting attorneys throughout the Commonwealth.
A native of Virginia’s coalfields, Russell has practiced law in Southwest Virginia for more than two decades. He is the owner of Bruce H. Russell, II, P.C., with offices in Lebanon, Abingdon and Tazewell.
His career has included service as an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney in Buchanan County, work in private practice and teaching at the Appalachian School of Law. His experience in the classroom reflects a longstanding commitment to legal education, mentorship and the professional development of future attorneys.
Russell currently serves on the Virginia State Bar Executive Committee and represents the 28th Judicial Circuit on the Virginia State Bar Council. He has also held leadership roles involving bench-bar relations, local and specialty bar associations, criminal defense and civil legal services.
Throughout his statewide service, Russell has been particularly involved in discussions surrounding rural legal practice, legal deserts, access to justice, attorney wellness, professionalism and the challenges facing solo and small-firm attorneys.
Those priorities closely reflect the Appalachian School of Law’s mission of preparing lawyers to serve communities that may otherwise have limited access to legal services.
“This is not simply a personal honor,” Russell said. “It is a chance to lift up the lawyers, judges, courthouse staffs, local bars, and communities that taught me what this profession is supposed to be about: service, example, compassion, courage, and the willingness to help.”
Russell is a graduate of the University of Virginia and the University of Richmond School of Law. His professional service has earned recognition from organizations throughout Virginia, including the Virginia State Bar and the Virginia Law Foundation.
The Appalachian School of Law congratulates Russell on this significant achievement and wishes him well as he helps lead Virginia’s legal profession.
