Chris was born in New Jersey and raised both there and in Charlottesville, Virginia. He graduated from Seton Hall University with a Bachelor's of Arts degree in English. Later, he attended the University of Maryland School of Law and graduated second in his class. Subsequently, he completed a one-year course of study at the Judge Advocate General School at the University of Virginia and received the civilian equivalent of a Master of Laws degree.
Chris was commissioned in the United States Army and served in several overseas commands. His last duty assignment was the Deputy Staff Judge Advocate/Acting Staff Judge Advocate at Fort Benning, Georgia. Chris left the military for a position as Vice President and General Counsel for Martin Theaters, Inc., now known as Carmike Cinemas, Inc., a subsidiary of Fuqua Industries, Inc.