Kris was born and raised in Tallahassee, Florida where he graduated from Leon High School in Leon County. Throughout his high school career Kris was a member of several clubs and organizations including the varsity crew team. After graduating high school, Kris attended the University of Texas where he earned a BA in Business Economics. He then worked for a mechanical, plumbing, and electrical engineering firm for five years before making the decision to pursue a law degree. Kris chose to attend Southern Methodist University both for its fine academic reputation as well as the opportunity to live and set roots in Dallas. He stayed in Dallas after law school, and immediately began representing injured plaintiffs against insurance companies.