Do I have a right to a jury trial in every court case?

In Tennessee if you are charged with a crime then you have the absolute right to a jury trial for any matter that is punishable by jail time or a fine of $50.00 or more.  The only exceptions are violations of Probation or criminal contempt charges.  On these charges, it is the judge who will determine the guilt or innocence of the accused. 

In a civil matter, a jury must be requested by either the plaintiff or the defendant at the beginning of the case.  If a jury trial is not demanded, then the right to a trial will be considered waived.  Please consult with your attorney before making any decision of whether a jury would be recommended in your case.