Ralph E. Holt was born and raised in Florence, Alabama. He attended Florence public schools, graduating from Bradshaw High School in 1982. Ralph then attended the University of Alabama, obtaining his BA in 1985, and the University of Alabama School of Law, earning his JD in 1989. Upon graduation from law school Ralph served as a law clerk for the Hon. E. B. Haltom, Jr., United States District Court for the Northern District of Alabama. In September of 1990 Ralph returned to his hometown of Florence to practice with Holt, McKenzie, Holt & Mussleman, a law firm established in 1962 and helmed by his late father, Don Holt. Ralph is currently the managing partner of the firm, now called Holt, Mussleman, Morgan & Alvis. Ralph has spent his entire legal career representing defendants in criminal cases as well as plaintiffs in civil matters. He has tried over 100 cases, including numerous jury trials, in various courts throughout Northwest Alabama. He is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the National Trial Lawyers Association, the Alabama Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Criminal Justice Section of the American Bar Association. Additionally, he is past president of the Lauderdale County Bar Association. Ralph is married to the former Brantley Champion of Florence, AL. They have three children Champ, Betty and Acker. The Holts are active members of Florence First United Methodist Church. Ralph's hobbies include Alabama football, travel, snow skiing and running.