Emmett received his undergraduate BA degree from Auburn University in 1970 and a J.D. Degree in 1973 from the University of Alabama.
Emmett spent 25 years with the Alabama Department of Mental Health where he served as chief council, executive assistant to the Commissioner of Mental Health, Associate Commissioner for Administration and Personnel, Associate Commissioner for the division of Mental Illness, Deputy Commissioner and finally Commissioner of the state Department of Mental Health.
He began employment with Southeastern Psychiatric Management in November 1997.