(WSB Radio)  The newest member of the Georgia Supreme Court is a familiar name in Atlanta.

U.S. Attorney David Nahmias has been selected by Governor Sonny Perdue to fill the vacancy on the court. 

"David has the ability to serve this state well and is someone who we can trust to guard this country's bedrock principles," said Governor Perdue. "His integrity, commitment to public service and strict adherence to the law as written will make him an excellent Justice."

Nahmias will replace Leah Ward Sears, the former state chief justice who resigned in June.

Nahmias was appointed U.S. attorney in Atlanta in 2004 by President Bush.

"I am deeply honored and humbled by Governor Perdue's selection of me to serve as a Supreme Court Justice, a position that is so important to protecting the rule of law and the democratic system of government in this state," Nahmias said. "Decisions by our Supreme Court that properly apply the laws as enacted through the democratic process are vital to the safety and prosperity of our citizens."

Among the high profile cases prosecuted by Nahmias were the trials of former mayor Bill Campbell and Centennial Olympic Park bomber Eric Robert Rudolph. 

A native of Atlanta, Nahmias is a graduate of Harvard Law School.

President Obama will now appoint a new U.S. Attorney for Atlanta.