Tennessee Court Talk

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of Tennessee Court Talk, host Nick Morgan sits down with Judges Steven Stafford, Andy Bennett, and Kristi Davis from the Tennessee Court of Appeals to chat about the court’s history, its role in Tennessee’s judicial system, and what really goes on behind the scenes in the appellate process. From how judges work together to the misconceptions they hear most often, this episode offers a friendly, inside look at how the Court of Appeals functions—and what every Tennessean should know about its work.

Send us Fan MailTennessee Supreme Court Justice Kyle Hixson grew up in East Tennessee working in his family’s grocery store. In this episode of Court Talk, the newest Justice on the state’s highest court reflects on his personal journey, his early career in sports broadcasting, and the moment that inspired him to pursue a path of public service 

Send us Fan MailThe separation of powers is one of the defining principles of American government and a key safeguard of individual liberty. Born out of the Constitutional Convention of 1787, the U.S. Constitution established three branches of government, each with distinct responsibilities and the power to check the others.In this episode, Dean William Koch of the Nashville School of Law and Judge Usman from the Tennessee Court of Appeals sit down for a thoughtful discussion exploring the founders' vision for the separation of powers, the meaning and purpose of checks and balances, and how the judicial branch has evolved over the past 250 years. Together, they examine why this constitutional framework remains essential to preserving the rule of law and maintaining the balance of power in a modern democracy.

Send us Fan MailThis episode continues our conversation from Part 1 with Judge John Campbell, Judge Tom Greenholtz, and Judge Steven Sword to discuss the legal standards and lasting impact of post-conviction proceedings in Tennessee.

Send us Fan MailThis episode explores what happens after a criminal conviction in Tennessee, focusing on post-conviction relief and its critical role in reviewing claims that may have been missed at trial.This discussion explains how cases reach the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals, what it takes to prove issues like ineffective assistance of counsel, and how convictions can be challenged after the trial is over.Host Nick Morgan is joined by Judges John Campbell, Tom Greenholtz, and Steven Sword to discuss the legal standards and lasting impact of post-conviction proceedings in Tennessee.

Send us Fan MailThe Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals (CCA) serves as an intermediary between trial courts and the Tennessee Supreme Court. The CCA hears cases in Jackson, Nashville, and Knoxville in panels of three judges from across the state, ensuring diverse perspectives in the judicial process. This episode continues the conversation from Part 1 with Judge Robert Wedemeyer, Judge Ross Dyer, Judge Camille McMullen and Judge Jill Bartee Ayers. 

Send us Fan MailThe Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals (CCA) serves as a vital intermediary between trial courts and the Tennessee Supreme Court. The CCA hears cases in Jackson, Nashville, and Knoxville in panels of judges from across the state, ensuring diverse perspective in the judicial process.In this episode we explore the history and key milestones that have shaped the Tennessee CCA into what it is today through the voices of four of its twelve members: Judge Robert Wedemeyer, Judge Ross Dyer, Judge Camille McMullen and Judge Jill Bartee Ayers. 

Send us Fan MailJudge David Veile (21st District Circuit Court) brings a unique perspective to the bench as both a former police officer and criminal defense attorney. In this episode of TN Court Talk, Judge Veile takes us along for his career journey and why he thinks his experience in law enforcement helps him as a judge. 

Send us Fan MailA former prison annex on Roan Mountain in Carter County, Tennessee is now the home of unique drug court recovery program. Through the combined efforts of local and state officials, the Northeast Tennessee Regional Recovery Center is transforming lives in a region ravaged by opioid addiction. Judges Lisa Rice, Jim Goodwin, and Stacy Street tell us how the program started and the key to its success.

Send us Fan MailThe Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) has welcomed Jim Holcomb as its new Judicial Safety Program Manager. In this role, Holcomb has begun leading a coordinated, proactive strategy to protect the people who serve Tennessee’s justice system. He is the primary safety liaison across state and local law enforcement, courts, and state agencies. In this episode, Holcomb tells us about his years serving as a Senior Special Agent for the U.S. Secret Service and what he hopes to accomplish in this new position.