About
John R. Bode is a Tennessee labor and employment attorney who represents employers in disputes, agency proceedings, and workplace matters. His experience includes union organizing campaigns, collective bargaining, arbitrations, strikes, decertification petitions, wage and hour audits, and employment litigation. He has served as lead trial counsel before state and federal courts, agencies, and the National Labor Relations Board, helping employers manage risk and resolve complex workplace disputes involving employees statewide.
John earned his J.D. from the University of Richmond, where he served as a member and contributing writer on the law review staff. He also earned his B.S. in commerce, with distinction, from the University of Virginia, concentrating in finance and human resources management. His education supports clear analysis of workplace policies, bargaining duties, litigation strategy, and employment decisions.
John has more than three decades of experience representing national, regional, and Tennessee employers. His expertise covers labor relations, employment litigation, union matters, trade secrets, non-compete disputes, immigration issues, and construction-related employment concerns. He is recognized by Chambers USA, Best Lawyers in America, Mid-South Super Lawyers, and Martindale-Hubbell. These honors reflect his trial skill, labor knowledge, client service, and respected standing in employment law management for businesses and executives.
John R. Bode is admitted in Tennessee and several federal courts, including district courts and appellate courts. He is active in legal, labor, employment, human resources, and community organizations, including bar groups and civic boards. Through trial advocacy, bargaining support, workplace counseling, and dispute resolution, he helps employers respond to legal challenges, maintain operations, and make informed decisions in difficult employment and labor matters with confidence and precision during conflict.
Law Office Affiliations
- Member, Miller & Martin
- Member, American Bar Association
- Member, Associated General Contractors, Labor and Employment Law Council
- Member, Chattanooga Bar Association
- Member, Rotary Club of Chattanooga
- Board Member and Legislative Director, Society for Human Resources Management, Chattanooga Chapter
- Member, Tennessee Bar Association
Licensed State
- Tennessee
Education
- University of Richmond
Juris Doctor (JD) - University of Virginia
Bachelor of Science (BS)
Awards & Badges




- Employee Benefits
- Employment Litigation
- Wage & Hour Laws
- Workers' Compensation
- Employment-Based Immigration
- Family-Based Immigration
- Litigation
- Trade Secrets




