He served as a senior puisne Judge on the Supreme Court of South Australia until his retirement in December 1945, following a lengthy and illustrious career in public service.

At the age of 14, he enrolled at Shebbear College in Devon, England, which was also attended by Sir Samuel Way and the Rev.

In 1887 he matriculated at London University, achieving remarkable academic success and obtaining an LLB degree in 1894.

A year later, he further distinguished himself by earning a Doctor of Law degree from the same university.

Returning to Australia, Frederick Richards spent four years as managing clerk, two in the office of Sir Josiah Symon, and with Messrs. C. C. Kingston and McLachlan.