Major General Bobby Christine, JD ’95, an alumnus of Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law, has been confirmed as the 43rd Judge Advocate General—the top legal officer—for the United States Army. This role places him at the forefront of legal counsel for the Army, guiding leaders and supporting its mission to defend the nation.
Christine’s career reflects a profound commitment to service. “I am proud to have helped clients, from the powerless to the powerful, in private practice and government service,” he said. “Serving causes greater than oneself is a blessing.”
As the senior uniformed lawyer in the Army, and as head of the Judge Advocate Generals (JAG) Corps, Christine serves as the legal adviser to the Secretary of the Army, the Chief of Staff of the Army, and facilitates delivery of legal services to all officers and agencies of the Army through the uniformed and civilian members of the JAG Corps. He guides the Army through its transformation into a future-ready force while ensuring it remains equipped to deter adversaries today. Christine views this dual mission as both a significant challenge and a profound honor, focused on strengthening leadership and soldier readiness.
Christine credits Cumberland’s legal education and practical litigation training for his diverse career, which spans roles as a two-time United States Attorney, elected District Attorney, magistrate judge, private practitioner, military officer and Judge Advocate.
“What I learned at Cumberland formed the basis of every legal experience that followed graduation,” he said. “The legal excellence of a legion of respected alumni who preceded me in the profession, both in and out of uniform, set a foundation and opened doors for me.”
For students considering military service, Christine emphasizes that a legal education sharpens critical skills like research, writing and public speaking—essential for navigating complex operational environments. Army Judge Advocates, serving as both soldiers and lawyers, play a pivotal role in global security through military justice, international law and cyber law.
The Cumberland community, ranked No. 5 nationally for Best Quality of Life by the Princeton Review, fostered lasting relationships for Christine. Engaging with talented classmates while serving as class president and in the student bar association built invaluable bonds. Social moments created a lifelong network he has relied upon in challenging legal environments.
Christine advises law students to treat their degree as a toolkit for leadership and problem-solving, while also stressing the importance of physical and mental fitness to endure the demands of a legal career. Early, repeated practice, he said, builds critical experience and perspective.
“Remember that your time in law school is an investment in your future. Invest wisely. It’s important to prioritize developing a comprehensive core of legal skills. While honing your core lawyering skills—mastering legal research and precise writing—and seizing opportunities like moot court and mock trial to sharpen your oral advocacy and build unwavering confidence, remember to cultivate a holistic approach,” Christine said.
With his prestigious military career, Christine reflected on Cumberland’s Veterans Legal Assistance Clinic (C-VETS), which has served nearly 900 veterans since 2020. “The Cumberland Veterans Legal Assistance Clinic can be a lifeline for the veteran community, removing barriers to justice for veterans facing financial hardship,” he said. “Such support can prevent minor legal challenges from spiraling into crises, fostering stability and dignity for those who have served.”
Reflecting his personal opinion, and not making an official Army endorsement, Christine said C-VETS provides students with meaningful opportunities to build connections, cultivate empathy and honor veterans’ sacrifice
The C-VETS clinic highlights experiential opportunities Cumberland School of Law utilizes to prepare graduates like Christine for impactful careers. Cumberland ranked No. 4 for Trial Advocacy by U.S. News & World Report (2025) and No. 2 in the national Gavel Rankings for 2024-25.
