Buddy Stockwell writes that there is exciting news in the addiction treatment industry. The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) has just released its fourth edition of the ASAM Criteria, which defines one national set of criteria for providing outcome-oriented and results-based care in the treatment of addiction.

Make plans now to join colleagues from across the state at the TBA’s 2024 Annual Convention, set for June 12-15, at the Peabody Hotel in Memphis. Perennial favorites such as the Bench Bar program and lunch, Lawyers Lunch and joint event with the Tennessee Judicial Conference return to the agenda alongside new offerings including a Wednesday night dine-around for all attendees; a Public Service breakfast, where TBA will honor legal aid, private practice and law student pro bono work; a ticketed reception on Thursday night open to the entire legal community; and a chance to be the honorary Peabody Duck Master! This year’s theme — “A Bridge to the Future” — also will bring compelling CLE programs focused on artificial intelligence and how this rapidly expanding technology will impact the practice of law. During the week, the Tennessee Lawyers' Association for Women, Tennessee Alliance for Black Lawyers and Tennessee Trial Lawyers' Association also will hold meetings and events at the Peabody, making Memphis the place to be this June. Access registration, hotel reservation information and more on the event website.

This week's testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee by TBA Executive Director Sheree Wright and Williamson County attorney David R. Grimmett is now available to watch online. The pair talked about the need to increase the hourly rate and cap for court-appointed attorneys representing the indigent, and expressed support for the Administrative Office of the Court’s budget request of $26.145 million to raise the hourly rate to $80 per hour. Following their testimony, the committee approved a motion in support of adding $26.145 million to the governor's budget for that purpose. The funds ultimately will be decided through budget negotiations between the administration and the legislature. Watch the TBA's testimony beginning at 17:08.

If launching a new firm or “hanging out a shingle” is in your future, the TBA’s Practice Management Center has resources to help. The materials in “Opening a Firm” section will start you down the right path and make sure vital considerations aren’t overlooked. Content includes checklists and comparison charts for a range of office technology, as well as white papers and best practices to guide this stage of your career. Check out those and other resources here.