LinkedIn

Chris has a law degree from Vermont Law and dual degrees in Mass Communication and English Literature & Language from Savannah State University. He is originally from Moncks Corner, South Carolina, where he graduated from Berkeley High School. 

Chris was an assistant to former Mayor Floyd Adams, Jr, an Assistant Public Defender, and a Chief Public Defender. In 2017, he co-founded Cox, Rodman, & Middleton, LLC, a general law firm practice. He has served as Judge Pro Tem for Chatham County and the City of Savannah.

Chris Middleton's campaign for Superior Court Judge in Eastern Judicial Circuit is his first entry into politics. 

Candidate website

The candidate's website says, "Middleton attended Vermont Law School... including serving as Senator of the Student Bar Association and participating in the VLS Student Ambassadors program..."

The candidate's website says, "Christopher K. Middleton’s legal career as a founding partner of Cox, Rodman & Middleton, LLC in Savannah, Georgia, reflects his commitment to excellence in civil and criminal litigation... as he serves as a Judge pro tem in Chatham County’s Recorder’s Court and Juvenile Court since 2018."

Believes in a diverse legal practice, including civil and criminal litigation, and values judicial roles and peer recognition, with admissions to practice in various Georgia courts.

Said, "Dedication is defined as the willingness to give a lot of time and energy... In the context of the legal profession, being a good steward requires a pledge of dedication and competence in the pursuit of fundamental fairness... No lawyer will master every aspect of law but every lawyer is required to perform due diligence... As a young lawyer, I frequently researched legal issues and or interviewed clients at the detention center well after midnight... I made a promise to be a zealous advocate of the law. Moreover, as a Pro tem judge, I’m dedicated to upholding the rule of law... As Chatham County’s next Superior Court Judge, I look forward to bringing my experience, integrity and dedication as a complement to an already existing team of impressive legal scholars."

Believes diverse backgrounds enhance judicial integrity and independence, while judicial experience enriches legal knowledge and temperament, complementing a 15-year legal career resolving civil, criminal, and appellate cases, and advocating for constitutional rights.

Believes in dedicated legal service, evidenced by his rise from assistant public defender to Interim Chief in Savannah, resolving over 2000 cases.

As an Assistant Public Defender for the Eastern Judicial Circuit, advanced to the following roles Senior Trial Team Leader, Major Crimes Division Litigator, Felony Division Chief, and Interim Chief Public Defender. 

The candidate's website says, "With over 15 years of legal experience, Middleton has earned a sterling reputation for his professionalism, integrity, and unwavering work ethic..."

Has over 15 years of legal experience resolving civil, criminal, and appellate cases, and advocating for constitutional rights.

Believes Middleton's active roles in legal associations and admissions to various Georgia courts demonstrate his significant legal expertise and commitment to client and community service.

Member of the Savannah Bar Association and the Port City Bar Association.

Recipient of the Justice Benham Award from the State Bar of Georgia for professionalism; 2019 Savannah Morning News Best of the Best Attorney; the Robbie Robinson Award from the Savannah Bar Association; and Top 100 Attorney of the Year 2023

Resolved over 2000 cases while working at the Public Defender's Office. The Public Defender's Office is responsible for defending individuals accused of committing crimes who cannot afford representation.

- As an Assistant Public Defender for the Eastern Judicial Circuit, advanced to the following roles Senior Trial Team Leader, Major Crimes Division Litigator, Felony Division Chief, and Interim Chief Public Defender. 
- Has over 15 years of legal experience resolving civil, criminal, and appellate cases, and advocating for constitutional rights.
- Member of the Savannah Bar Association and the Port City Bar Association.
- Recipient of the Justice Benham Award from the State Bar of Georgia for professionalism; 2019 Savannah Morning News Best of the Best Attorney; the Robbie Robinson Award from the Savannah Bar Association; and Top 100 Attorney of the Year 2023
- Resolved over 2000 cases while working at the Public Defender's Office. The Public Defender's Office is responsible for defending individuals accused of committing crimes who cannot afford representation.

Legal Experience

Believes integrity is crucial for judicial legitimacy and sound decision-making, advocating for judges to uphold high ethical standards and professionalism to maintain public trust and legal integrity.

As of March 19, 2024, Chris Middleton’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Ethics & Conduct

Said, "My commitment to serving Chatham County as the next Superior Court Judge is unwavering... My experience as Judge pro tem... highlights my dedication to upholding constitutional principles and ensuring equal justice for all citizens."

Judicial Administration

Said "When I first began the practice of law, I was told a lawyer should follow 3 rules; be on time, be courteous, and never compromise your integrity. I continue to follow these rules today. "

Said, "it is extremely important to have judges who are fair, impartial, and have integrity; but most importantly have the ability and patience to listen to all legal parties."

- Said "When I first began the practice of law, I was told a lawyer should follow 3 rules; be on time, be courteous, and never compromise your integrity. I continue to follow these rules today. "
- Said, "it is extremely important to have judges who are fair, impartial, and have integrity; but most importantly have the ability and patience to listen to all legal parties."

Judicial Philosophy

The candidate's website says, "Middleton’s involvement in student organizations and campus administration... showcases his commitment to service and leadership."

The candidate's website says, "Middleton is committed to the principles of the United States Constitution, the Constitution of the State of Georgia, servant leadership, and strengthening the Chatham County community through volunteer efforts."

Said, "By volunteering with us, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with voters... and help shape the future of our community."

The candidate's website says, "Ready to make your voice heard? Sign up to volunteer today and be a part of positive change in our judicial system!"

Supports community engagement, driven by a commitment to justice, and seeks to connect with citizens in pursuit of becoming Chatham County's next Superior Court Judge, valuing their support on this journey.

The candidate's website says, "Are you passionate about ensuring fair and just elections? Do you believe in upholding the integrity of our judicial system? Join us in making a difference by volunteering for the Chris for Superior Court Judge political campaign!"

Said, "Coordinating a campaign of this significance requires substantial support, and I recognize the importance of collective teamwork in community engagement. Encouraging donations to support my election reflects my commitment to making a positive impact in Chatham County’s legal system."

Said, "By placing a yard sign in your yard, you’re not just endorsing a candidate; you’re championing principles that matter. Help us spread the word and make a visible statement about the kind of leadership you believe in."

Said, "Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the movement for positive change. Request your yard sign now and let’s work together to make a difference in our courts and our community."

The candidate's website says, "Let your voice be heard by proudly displaying a yard sign for the Chris for Superior Court Judge campaign. Join us in advocating for a judiciary that stands for integrity and equality."

Supports community upliftment through the Omega Holiday Makeover project, initiated in 2008, which renovates single parents' homes and gifts their children, honoring his mother's values of integrity and work ethic.

Established the Omega Holiday Makeover project, which renovates single parents' homes and gifts children holiday presents, in honor of his mother.

The candidate's website says, "Middleton also conduct “Life Skills and Goals” lectures and volunteer initiatives with various Chatham County Education institutions such as:"

Gives “Life Skills and Goals” lectures and manages volunteer initiatives with several Chatham County Education institutions.

The candidate's website says, "...he has been the recipient of various awards such as... the Robbie Robinson Award from the Savannah Bar Association;... the Community Leader Award from Savannah Youth City, Inc."

Received the Community Leader Award from Savannah Youth City, Inc.

Is a board member for the following community boards: Georgia Appleseed, Safety Valve Project, and Citizens Advisory Board for the Chatham County Metropolitan Planning Commission.

Is board chair for Deep Center Inc., and on the Executive Committee for Port City Bar Association and  Savannah Bar Association.

Participant with Chatham-Savannah Citizens Advocacy.

- Established the Omega Holiday Makeover project, which renovates single parents' homes and gifts children holiday presents, in honor of his mother.
- Gives “Life Skills and Goals” lectures and manages volunteer initiatives with several Chatham County Education institutions.
- Received the Community Leader Award from Savannah Youth City, Inc.
- Is a board member for the following community boards: Georgia Appleseed, Safety Valve Project, and Citizens Advisory Board for the Chatham County Metropolitan Planning Commission.
- Is board chair for Deep Center Inc., and on the Executive Committee for Port City Bar Association and  Savannah Bar Association.
- Participant with Chatham-Savannah Citizens Advocacy.

Community Involvement

Facebook

Chris Middleton

Frank attended Georgia State University School of Law. He is married to Mandy Roberts, and they have two children. He attends Wesley Monumental United Methodist Church.

Frank is a member of the Georgia Bar Association and the Savannah Bar Association.

As of April 13, 2024, Frank Pennington II’s website did not contain information on this issue.

The candidate's website says, "A dedicated attorney for 20 years, with a proven track record of success, Frank currently serves in the US Attorney’s Office as an Assistant US Attorney and as the Violent Crimes and Anti-Gang Task Force Coordinator."

Serves in the US Attorney’s Office as an Assistant US Attorney and as the Violent Crimes and Anti-Gang Task Force Coordinator. In that role, he has also served as the Violence Against
Women Act, Violent Crime, and Anti-Gang Task Force Coordinators.

The candidate's website says, "Prior to the US Attorney’s Office, Frank was an Assistant District Attorney in Chatham County. There, he served as Deputy Chief ADA and:"

Prior to the US Attorney’s Office, Frank was an Assistant District Attorney in Chatham County. There, he served as Deputy Chief ADA and and as a member of the Major Crimes Division-Special Victims Unit. He also served on the Chatham County Sexual Assault Response Team, the Family Violence Task Force, and Fatality Review Committee. 

- Serves in the US Attorney’s Office as an Assistant US Attorney and as the Violent Crimes and Anti-Gang Task Force Coordinator. In that role, he has also served as the Violence Against
Women Act, Violent Crime, and Anti-Gang Task Force Coordinators.
- Prior to the US Attorney’s Office, Frank was an Assistant District Attorney in Chatham County. There, he served as Deputy Chief ADA and and as a member of the Major Crimes Division-Special Victims Unit. He also served on the Chatham County Sexual Assault Response Team, the Family Violence Task Force, and Fatality Review Committee. 

The candidate's website says, "Georgia law requires political committees to report the name, mailing address, occupation and employer for each individual whose contributions aggregate in excess of $100 in a calendar year."

As of March 19, 2024, Frank Pennington II’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Early Voting, Candidates Line Up

Vowed to address the backlog in Chatham County Court.

- Vowed to address the backlog in Chatham County Court.

Instagram

Said, "As a candidate for judge in Chatham County, Georgia, I am committed to upholding the laws in a way that ensures justice is served fairly and impartially."

Says "No matter what zip code you live in, or how much money you have, and whether you are a victim or an accused – my courtroom will be a place of fairness"

- Says "No matter what zip code you live in, or how much money you have, and whether you are a victim or an accused – my courtroom will be a place of fairness"

Said, "commitment to working for the public good is what drives me to run for Chatham County Superior Court Judge."

The candidate's website says, "As a lifelong Savannahian and a graduate of Herschel V. Jenkins High School, Frank has focused on creating a better life for all citizens in Chatham County throughout his career."

The candidate's website says, "Join our team and help us make a difference in your community."

Said, "Together, we can make a difference in every neighborhood across Chatham County and ensure that our courts remain a catalyst for the public good!"

The candidate's website says, "By reaching out to the Frank Pennington for Judge campaign, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about ... volunteer opportunities, and much more. It’s a fantastic chance to get involved in the political process and make your voice heard."

The candidate's website says, "Volunteer soccer coach for Savannah United"

Frank was appointed to the Georgia Sexual Assault Team Expert Committee where he helped write Georgia’s first State Sexual Assault Response Team Guide and create a training curriculum used around the state

The candidate's website says, "Frank is committed to improving the lives of all Georgian crime victims... He has devoted his time outside of the courtroom to training community members, police forces, and other attorneys on issues impacting the judicial system and victims of crime..."

In 2011, the Rape Crisis Center of the Coastal Empire honored Frank with
an advocacy award for his work on sexual assault cases as well as his support and assistance to victims.

The candidate's website says, "Dedicated to Public Service"

Said, "“My commitment to working for the public good is what drives me to run for Chatham County Superior Court Judge.”"

Served on the Corporate Board of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia since 2016 and is a volunteer soccer coach for Savannah United. He is a former Board member for SAFE Shelter of Savannah, a Cub Scout leader, and a member of the Kiwanis Club of Savannah.

- Frank was appointed to the Georgia Sexual Assault Team Expert Committee where he helped write Georgia’s first State Sexual Assault Response Team Guide and create a training curriculum used around the state
- In 2011, the Rape Crisis Center of the Coastal Empire honored Frank with
an advocacy award for his work on sexual assault cases as well as his support and assistance to victims.
- The candidate's website says, "Dedicated to Public Service"
- Served on the Corporate Board of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia since 2016 and is a volunteer soccer coach for Savannah United. He is a former Board member for SAFE Shelter of Savannah, a Cub Scout leader, and a member of the Kiwanis Club of Savannah.

Frank Pennington II

- Georgia Superior Court Judges hear a wide range of criminal cases from petty theft and public drunkenness to murder. Some cases in front of the Georgia Superior Court involve the death penalty. 
- On the civil side, Superior Court Judges hear cases on divorce, titles to land, contract disputes, and premises liability. 
- Superior Court Judges are elected by judicial circuit. Each county surrounding Atlanta has its own judicial circuit, while rural judicial districts typically consist of multiple counties.
- Superior Court Judges are elected to four year terms. Elections are nonpartisan. The Governor can appoint Superior Court Judges when vacancies arise. 

Superior Court Judge

Election results

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Legal Experience

Ethics & Conduct

Judicial Administration

Judicial Philosophy

Community Involvement