Faculty Profile: Richard Bennett

Rick Bennett helps clients resolve complex commercial and employment disputes in state and federal courts. He brings years of experience and a knowledge informed by active engagement in the industries in which he serves. His primary areas of practice include employment and labor relations, human resources counseling, construction disputes, mechanic’s liens, contract disputes and business litigation.

His employment practice includes representing employers in all matters affecting their workforce in court and before various state and federal agencies. He defends employers against harassment, discrimination, and wage and hour claims and helps companies enforce employment agreements and manage union relations.

Rick successfully argued the first Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) case heard by the U.S. Supreme Court on behalf of the employer. He frequently presents on the FMLA and other employment issues and serves on the Tennessee Bar Association Labor and Employment Section Executive Council.

Rick also frequently advises charter schools including advocating for accountability, school choice and the promotion of innovative educational concepts to improve student outcomes.

Raised in a construction family and credentialed as a trained carpenter and project manager, Rick understands the intricacies of the construction industry. He represents owners, contractors, subcontractors and material suppliers in construction disputes at all levels of trial and appellate litigation as well as in mediation, arbitration and other ADR procedures. He litigates cases involving claims of breach of contract, breach of warranty, design or construction defects, unjust enrichment, delay claims and construction liens. He serves on the Board of Directors and as general counsel for the Associated Builders and Contractors of West Tennessee.

Rick also represents businesses in land use and zoning matters. His unique industry insight includes serving as a member of the City of Germantown Planning Commission.