LinkedIn

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

- 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. 

Trial Judge over a wide range of civil and criminal cases

Eastern

Public Safety

Criminal Justice

Property Rights

Georgia

Superior Court Judge

AJC/ACC Voter Guide - Judicial Questionnaire

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What experiences have best prepared you to hold elected office?

What actions would you take to enhance government transparency and trust in government?

The court system is increasingly seen as overtly political. What more can be done to assure the public that the courts are neutral arbitrators of the law?

What are your personal security concerns, given the increasing attacks on judges and court officials nationwide and the rise in hostility toward judicial officials generally?

How will you manage large caseloads exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic?

A number of judges are now streaming their court hearings and trials so they are completely open to the public. Will you commit to streaming your courtroom proceedings so anyone will be able to view them? If not, why not?