State Attorney Larry Basford is proud to welcome Christopher Walters, a Panama City native, to its prosecutorial team.
Walters, born and raised in Bay County, graduated from Rutherford High School before pursuing higher education and a career path that ultimately brought him back to serve his community.
After graduating from UF, Walters decided to pursue his law degree at the University of Maryland Law School to be closer to his grandfather and dad.
“Going to school and living in Baltimore was an eye-opening experience for someone from Panama City but was helpful in having compassion for people of all backgrounds and shaped me into a more well-rounded person,” Walters said.
After law school, Walters served as a judicial law clerk for Maryland Circuit Court Judge Richard Sandy, where he gained invaluable insight into the justice system.
“It was a good experience being able to see what the great attorneys were doing in court versus the other attorneys,” Walters said. “To be able to talk with the Judge after court and gain insight as to how things should be done was important for me. With what he shared, I was able to learn a lot about the importance of being prepared for court and the importance of being a zealous advocate. But maybe most importantly I learned to always be professional and fair in court.”
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Walters passed the Maryland Bar before deciding to return to Panama City during the COVID-19 pandemic to be closer to his family. Upon his return, he took and passed the Florida Bar, allowing him to begin practicing law in his home state. He spent about 18 months with the 14th Judicial Circuit Public Defender’s Office, gaining hands-on experience in criminal law, followed by a year in private practice. However, Walters soon realized he missed the courtroom.
“I appreciate both sides of it, and I understand and respect the defendant’s constitutional rights” he said. “But it can be tough sometimes based on what they are accused of doing. I’d rather be on the prosecutorial side because I can make a bigger difference.”
Walters said the work has become his passion. “I enjoy criminal law. I wake up excited to go to work, this is so much more than just a job. I grew up in Bay County and I love this place. I want to give back in any way I can. Hopefully, I can make the community a little safer.”
Walters is married to Christian Sullivan, who also practices law in Bay County. For more information, contact Mike Cazalas at mike.cazalas@sa14.fl.gov, or call 850-381-7454.