If you have been charged with a criminal offense and you do not wish to enter into a guilty plea agreement with the State, you must eventually navigate the critical decision between opting for a bench trial or a jury trial. Each avenue carries its own set of advantages and disadvantages, influencing the outcome and the process significantly. Understanding these nuances is paramount to choosing which type of trial you wish to occur. While you should always consult with your own criminal defense attorney before making any decision, a Murfreesboro criminal defense lawyer at Bennett | Michael | Ho ..read more

Divorce can be a complex and emotionally challenging process. When children are involved and/or significant assets must be divided, divorce can be even more difficult for everyone involved. Divorce is also a highly individualized process, meaning your divorce will not be exactly the same as anyone else’s divorce. Whether you are considering a divorce or are already in the midst of one, a Murfreesboro divorce attorney at Bennett | Michael | Hornsby explains eight essential things to know about the divorce process in Tennessee. Grounds for Divorce: In Tennessee, you can file for divorce based o ..read more

If a special needs beneficiary is included in your estate planning considerations, you have likely incorporated a special needs planning component into your comprehensive estate plan. When gifting to a loved one with special needs, every decision must be carefully thought out to ensure that you do not inadvertently threaten the beneficiary’s eligibility for crucial government assistance programs. One tool that you may wish to consider incorporating into your special needs plan is an ABLE account. To help you evaluate your options, a Murfreesboro estate planning attorney at Bennett | Michael ..read more

Like many states, Tennessee is struggling to combat the devastating impact of opioids, particularly fentanyl, on individuals and families. While fentanyl has long been a player in the opioid crisis gripping the nation, it is now ubiquitous. In response to the increasing prevalence of fentanyl-related deaths and overdoses, Tennessee has implemented new laws aimed at curbing its illicit distribution and use. A Murfreesboro criminal defense lawyer at Bennett | Michael | Hornsby helps you understand fentanyl crimes in Tennessee. What Is Fentanyl? According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administrat ..read more

Going through a divorce is rarely simple nor easy. While some divorcing couples do manage to remain civil, other divorcing couples wind up in a contentious and protracted court battle. Sadly, when minor children are involved, it increases the likelihood of a divorce turning adversarial if the parents cannot agree on details related to the children. If both parents want custody of the children, for example, the divorce process usually becomes more emotionally and financially challenging. Before you embark on a potentially contentious divorce, a Murfreesboro divorce attorney at Bennett | Michael ..read more

Having to interact with a law enforcement officer during a simple traffic stop can be a nerve-wracking experience for most drivers. If that simple traffic stop morphs into a driving under the influence (DUI) investigation, the average person’s anxiety increases exponentially – even if they aren’t under the influence. Because it can happen to anyone, a Murfreesboro criminal defense lawyer at Bennett | Michael | Hornsby explains how to navigate a DUI stop in Tennessee. How Is a DUI Investigation Initiated? Law enforcement officers conduct traffic stops all the time. Some officers are directly as ..read more

A trust agreement is often an integral component in a comprehensive estate plan. Trusts are powerful legal arrangements that allow individuals to protect and distribute their assets according to their wishes, both during their lifetime and after their passing. At the heart of every trust is a Trustee, a fiduciary entrusted with the management and administration of the trust assets. Serving as a Trustee puts you in a position of great responsibility and requires a thorough understanding of both the legal and ethical duties involved. To help you better understand, a Murfreesboro estate planning ..read more

The prospect of divorce often evokes images of conflict and discord. When children are involved, the prospect of successfully co-parenting during a divorce can be met with skepticism; however, it can be accomplished. To help you get started, a Murfreesboro divorce attorney at Bennett | Michael | Hornsby discusses some dynamics and strategies that pave the way for successful co-parenting during divorce. Co-Parenting During a Divorce Co-parenting, at its core, embodies a shared commitment between former partners to prioritize the well-being and development of their children. It transcends person ..read more

We have all watched law enforcement officers read someone their “Miranda” rights during an arrest or subsequent interview on a TV show or in a movie. You may go through your entire life without ever hearing those warnings in real life; however, if you are ever in a situation where the warnings apply it is in your best interest to know that and to understand your rights. With that in mind, a Murfreesboro criminal defense lawyer at Bennett | Michael | Hornsby explains when Miranda warnings are required. What Are Miranda Warnings? In the 1966 U.S. Supreme Court case, Miranda v. Arizona, the court ..read more

White-collar crime, often masked by its nonviolent nature and committed within the confines of legitimate business operations, is a significant concern for law enforcement authorities and legal systems across the United States, including the State of Tennessee. Defined by deception, manipulation, and financial gain, these crimes inflict substantial economic and social damage, affecting individuals, businesses, and communities alike. While people often view white collar crimes as less serious offenses, they carry very real and very serious potential penalties for anyone convicted of committing ..read more