When Judge Chris Craft announced his retirement from Division VIII of the Shelby County Criminal Court, it marked the end of an extraordinary 32-year era. Judge Craft was widely considered the "gold standard" at 201 Poplar—the judge other judges called for advice when complex legal issues arose. Stepping into a race to fill a seat defined by that level of institutional knowledge and community devotion is a monumental task.

Yet, for longtime Memphis attorney Joseph S. Ozment, the race for Division VIII isn't just about seeking an office; it is about protecting and continuing a legacy of tireless public service.

To understand what Joseph S. Ozment brings to the bench, one only has to look at a personal memory he shared about Judge Craft. Ozment recalled driving to the Judge’s house on a Christmas Eve to have an emergency order signed, only to find the veteran judge outside raking and bagging his own leaves. Rather than telling the attorney to wait until the holidays were over, Judge Craft immediately stepped up to help.

That rare, unyielding work ethic clearly left an impression on Ozment, and it mirrors the exact philosophy he has built his own career upon.

A Deeply Rooted Legal Mind

Ozment enters this race not as an outsider to the heavy demands of the criminal justice system, but as a seasoned veteran who knows the hallways, the courtrooms, and the people of Shelby County inside and out. Having spent decades navigating complex legal battles, he understands that a judge’s role is a delicate balancing act.

A courtroom requires an analytical mind capable of handling major felonies and ensuring public safety, but it also demands an understanding that every case file represents a human life. Ozment brings a reputation for sharp legal acumen, grit, and deep-seated fairness—qualities desperately needed to maintain the standard of excellence Judge Craft established.

What He Brings to the Bench

If elected to Division VIII, Ozment brings a distinct legal perspective shaped by years of firsthand trial and appellate court experience. He understands that justice cannot be a slow-moving bureaucracy that disappears on weekends or holidays; it requires a judge who is accessible, prepared, and ready to work.

Beyond his legal knowledge, Ozment carries a profound respect for the blueprint left behind by his predecessor. He recognizes that true judicial integrity extends beyond knowing the law—it is about keeping a steady hand under immense pressure, protecting the constitutional rights of every individual, and maintaining a deep commitment to the Mid-South community.

As the race for Shelby County Criminal Court heats up, Joseph S. Ozment stands ready to take the hand-off from a legal giant. He isn't looking to reinvent the wheel in Division VIII; he is looking to ensure that the wheel keeps turning with the exact same integrity, relentless work ethic, and dedication to justice that Shelby County has relied on for more than three decades.