Chris Poole
Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel, P.C. attorney Chris Poole has been inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers (ACTL), one of the premier legal associations in North America.
Attorney Poole was one of 88 from across North America inducted into the College in a recent ceremony attended by approximately 900 Fellows and guests at the ACTL Annual Meeting in Nashville, Tennessee. He is one of only 13 Fellows in Chattanooga.
"I am deeply honored to be invited to join such a distinguished group of well-respected and accomplished litigators, which includes my lifelong role model, my father," said attorney Poole. "This recognition inspires me to continue to strive for excellence in my practice and service to the legal community."
Founded in 1950, the College comprises top U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico trial lawyers. Fellowship is by invitation only, granted after thorough vetting of experienced lawyers who excel in advocacy and uphold the highest ethical standards. Candidates must have a minimum of 15 years of trial experience, and membership is limited to one percent of the lawyer population in any state or province. The College is dedicated to enhancing trial practice standards, professionalism, and justice through education and advocacy for judicial independence, jury trials, rule of law, access to justice, and fair representation.
With over 25 years as a federal and state prosecutor, attorney Poole specializes in criminal defense, white-collar cases, family law, and general civil litigation. He advises corporate clients and individuals on potential criminal liability and educates them on defense strategies, drawing from his extensive trial experience in state and federal courts, including numerous jury trials and arguments before the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals. In addition, he represents health care providers in qui tam litigation, white-collar criminal defense, payment and licensing disputes, and fraud and abuse litigation.
Before joining Chambliss, attorney Poole held a senior role at the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee, managing diverse cases involving elected officials, corporations, international criminals, and cybercrime. He now uses this extensive experience to advocate for clients in civil litigation, family law, and criminal defense.
He is a recipient of numerous accolades, including the American Inns of Court, Brock-Ciioer Chgapter Civility Award by the Hamilton County federal and state judiciary in 2022, the Exceptional Service Award from the National Association of Former U.S. Attorneys in 2014, and the Executive Office of the U.S. Attorneys Director's Award for Superior Performance in 2009. In addition, he is a member of the Chattanooga and Federal Bar Associations.
Attorney Poole graduated from Wake Forest University and the Georgia State University College of Law. He is licensed in Tennessee and Georgia.