Written By JR Robinson

The Bench of the Future: Who is Judge Chris Frulla?

When voters head to the polls to decide the future of the Shelby County Circuit Court, Division 3, they aren't just looking for a legal expert—they are looking for a public servant with a commitment to the truth and a deep respect for the community. Judge Chris Frulla, who currently serves in that seat, brings a unique perspective shaped by years of "digging" for the facts, both literally and figuratively.

A Unique Foundation: The Archaeologist’s Precision

Before he ever donned a black robe, Chris Frulla spent his early career in the field of archaeology. A graduate of the College of Charleston with a degree in Anthropology, he worked on private archaeological sites as far away as the Bahamas.

While his transition from uncovering 18th-century artifacts to interpreting 21st-century law may seem like a leap, Judge Frulla sees a clear connection. Archaeology taught him the value of patience, precision, and the exhaustive pursuit of evidence. Today, he brings that same "excavation" mindset to the bench, ensuring that every case is examined thoroughly and that the truth is never buried under legal technicalities.

Deep Roots in Memphis Law

Law was always in the Frulla family DNA. Following in his father’s footsteps, Chris returned to his roots in Memphis to earn his law degree from the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis.

Prior to his appointment to the bench by Governor Bill Lee in August 2025, Frulla spent over 13 years as a litigator at the respected firm of Rainey, Kizer, Reviere & Bell PLC. During his time in private practice, he specialized in civil litigation and personal injury defense, earning the "Rising Star" designation by Super Lawyers for seven consecutive years (2016–2022). This decade-plus of experience in the trenches of the courtroom gave him a firsthand understanding of the challenges that lawyers, plaintiffs, and defendants face every day.

What He Brings to Division 3

Since taking the bench, Judge Frulla has prioritized efficiency and accessibility. He has modernized the court’s operations by implementing clear procedural preferences—such as allowing Zoom attendance for non-evidentiary hearings to save time and money for litigants—while maintaining the dignity and formal structure required for evidentiary trials.

His judicial philosophy is grounded in three pillars:

1. Fairness: Every individual who enters his courtroom is treated with the same respect, regardless of their background or representation.

2. Integrity: He believes a judge’s role is to apply the law as written, setting aside personal bias to ensure the scales of justice remain balanced.

3. Community Impact: For Judge Frulla, the court is a place of service. He has often stated that being a judge is about "making a meaningful difference for the citizens of Shelby County."

A Vote for Stability and Character

Judge Chris Frulla is not just a legal professional; he is a husband, a father, and a lifelong student of the truth. He understands that the decisions made in Division 3 change lives, and he approaches each day on the bench with the gravity that responsibility deserves.

As the August 6 election approaches, Judge Frulla stands on a record of transition from a skilled advocate to a fair and impartial arbiter. For the voters of Shelby County, he offers a rare blend of historical perspective and modern legal expertise.

Learn more and support the campaign at www.judgechrisfrulla.com.