Green was born in Oneonta, New York on May 15, 1945 and grew up in Hartwick, New York, although he attended school in nearby Cooperstown. After graduating from Cooperstown High School, Green attended Colgate University and Syracuse College of Law. He practiced law in Watertown, New York for four years before returning to his home town. He opened his law office, now called Green & Green, on Main Street in Cooperstown in 1974. A man of strong opinions and deep family values, Green is also an experienced farmer, avid hunter, and devoted grandfather.