He entered private practice of law in Oklahoma City from 1937 to 1940.

He was in the United States Army as a Commanding Officer from 1940 to 1946.

He was again in the United States Army as a Commanding Officer from 1950 to 1952.

He was a Judge of the Seventh Judicial District Court of the State of Oklahoma from 1955 to 1961.

He was nominated to the same seat by President Kennedy on January 15, 1962.