John Cameron

For more than 18 years, John Cameron has served on the bench in the Shelby County Environmental Court. As Referee, he has presided over thousands of cases involving traffic violations, animal welfare, vacant properties, substandard housing, and zoning, fire, and health code enforcement.

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He has heard cases not only in a courtroom, but throughout Memphis and Shelby County in General Sessions Division 14 Community Courts—including Frayser, Millington, Hickory Hill, Whitehaven, Crosstown, the Medical District, Orange Mound, and Cordova. He has held court in community centers, churches, police precincts, and even a gym to make the court more accessible.

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In addition to his work on the bench, John has spoken to and taught attorneys, law enforcement officers, students, neighborhood associations, and church groups across Shelby County—from Westwood to Arlington and from Shelby Forest to Collierville.

John serves as Scoutmaster for Troop 241 and previously served as Cubmaster of Pack 241. He has also served on the boards of the East Buntyn and Evergreen Neighborhood Associations and sings in the choir at St. John Orthodox Church.

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John is a lifelong Memphian. He graduated from White Station High School, Samford University, and the University of Memphis School of Law.  In 2007, he was appointed as the first Referee of the Environmental Court by Judge Larry Potter and continues in that role under Judge Patrick Dandridge.

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After nearly two decades on the bench, John brings a steady, practical approach to the courtroom. He knows how to move cases efficiently while making sure people are heard and treated with respect. He has the experience to make difficult decisions quickly—and the judgment to know when they shouldn’t be rushed. He expects dignity for the defeated and humility from the victorious.

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With 18 years of experience, John Cameron understands that “all rise” is a not command, but a calling.

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We all rise together.