Chris W. McCarty

Chris W. McCarty, a shareholder in our Knoxville office, focuses his practice in employment law, education law, and civil litigation. He represents clients in both state and federal courts across Tennessee and is recognized as a Rule 31 Mediator. Chris is also a trained arbitrator.

Prior to his legal career, Chris taught eighth-grade United States history at Seymour Middle School in Seymour, Tennessee. He now serves as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Tennessee College of Law. Chris is passionate about education, school safety, their intersection with the law, and the overall advancement of public education.

Beyond his legal practice, Chris is also a sought-after speaker on employment and education law topics, and he has contributed articles to publications such as Education Week, HR Magazine, the Tennessee Bar Journal, and the Knoxville Business Journal.

Outside of work, Chris enjoys family life in the Farragut area with his wife and three children. He is actively engaged in his community through his church, Cedar Springs Presbyterian.

PROFESSIONAL HONORS AND ACTIVITIES

• Best Lawyers 2025 Employment Law-Management “Lawyer of the Year” in Knoxville

• Member, The American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA)

• University of Tennessee College of Law, Adjunct Professor, 2021

• Tennessee Council of School Board Attorneys, President, 2018-2020

• Best Lawyers 2020 Employment Law - Management “Lawyer of the Year” in Knoxville

• Named to The Best Lawyers in America, Employment Law Management and Education Law

• Named a Cityview Magazine Top Attorney

• Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel, Elected Member, 2018

• Knoxville Bar Foundation, Fellows Program, 2016

• Member, American Arbitration Association (AAA) Panel of Employment Arbitrators

• Mid-South Super Lawyers Rising Star, 2015, 2016

• Leadership Sevier, 2015

• Knoxville Zoo, Circle of Friends Leadership Council, 2015

• Nucleus Knoxville, President, 2014

• “40 Under 40”, Knoxville Business Journal, 2013

• Tennessee Bar Association Leadership Law, 2012

• Leadership Tomorrow Sevier, 2010

• Tennessee Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, President’s Award, 2009

• Introduction Knoxville, 2007

• Knoxville Bar Association, Publications Committee

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

Following college, Mr. McCarty spent two years teaching eighth grade United States history at Seymour Middle School in Seymour, Tennessee. He now lives in the Concord area with his wife and their three children, and is actively involved with his church, Cedar Springs Presbyterian.