Frank Murphy graduated with a BA and an LLB from the University of Michigan, establishing a strong educational foundation. He served in the military during World War I, achieving the rank of captain. Following his military service, Murphy pursued further studies in London and Dublin, which influenced his judicial philosophy. He spent several years in private legal practice before transitioning to public service roles. Murphy's career highlights include significant contributions to the legal and public sectors, characterized by a commitment to justice and equity.

Frank Murphy's judicial philosophy reveals a unique blend of strict legal technicalities and broader principles of fairness, creating a distinctive approach to justice. His decision-making process often eschewed narrow legal arguments in favor of holistic notions of equity, suggesting an ideologically agile stance. Murphy's personal life, marked by close relationships with men and women alike, adds an intriguing layer to his public persona, hinting at a nuanced understanding of human connections that transcends conventional ideological boundaries.