Our Team

Philip D. Burnett

Attorney at Law

Philip Burnett, owner and operator of Burnett Law and lifelong Tennessean who has spent over 30 years fighting for the people of Crossville and throughout middle and East Tennessee. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Business and his Juris Doctor from the University of Tennessee College of Law, and has been a trusted voice in personal injury, car accident litigation, social security disability, and general civil litigation ever since.

What sets Philip apart isn't just his experience — it's his genuine care for the people he serves. While in law school, he volunteered to represent unemployment compensation claimants, and that same spirit drives him today. He currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Disability Section of the Tennessee Bar Association, working to educate fellow attorneys and push for legislation that makes a real difference for disability claimants across the state.

Philip has served as a board member for many community organizations including United Fund of Cumberland County, We Are One, Hilltoppers, The Rural Health Clinic of the Cumberlands and others. When you work with Philip Burnett, you're working with someone who truly believes in people — and who will go the extra mile to make things right.

Jeffrey Vires

Attorney at Law

Jeffrey Vires is a Partner at Burnett Law and a proud Tennessee native with over 31 years of legal experience. After earning his Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and his Juris Doctor from the University of Tennessee College of Law, Jeff built a career defined by service, skill, and a genuine passion for helping people navigate life's most challenging moments.

Jeff's practice covers a wide range of legal areas including Criminal Defense, DUI, Divorce, Child Custody, Child Support, Wills & Estates, Personal Injury, VA Disability, and Adoption — giving clients the confidence that no matter what they're facing, they have a knowledgeable advocate in their corner.

Before joining Burnett Law, Jeff served as the Managing Litigation Attorney for a regional labor law center, representing the Air Force in labor-management relations, EEO, and civilian personnel matters. He defended critical personnel policies, advised on complex international legal issues, and served as Policy Advisor for private security contractors in Iraq — all while earning a reputation as someone who fights hard for the people he represents.

Jeff went on to serve as Deputy Chief of the General Law Division in the United States Air Force, advising the ARPC Commander and Air Force-wide leadership on military justice and administrative matters. He was honored as the 2003 HQ ARPC Staff Officer of the Year. As Chief, Appellate Defense Counsel, he represented clients before the Air Force Court of Criminal Appeals, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, and the Supreme Court of the United States. That level of experience is now fully dedicated to the people of Cumberland County.

Emmalee Cole

Legal Assistant

Emmalee Cole is the first person you will see and hear when you communicate with our office, and she keeps everything running smoothly. With over seven years of experience as a legal assistant and a Bachelor's degree from Tennessee Technological University, Emmalee brings both the knowledge and the professionalism to handle every detail — from managing files and scheduling to drafting sensitive documents — so our attorneys can stay focused on your case.

Jamie Danforth

Paralegal

Jamie Danforth is an incredibly sharp and dedicated paralegal. She has a talent for making sure every case is airtight — every statute researched, every document prepared, every legal "duck" in a row. Her meticulous attention to detail and deep commitment to our clients are a big part of why Burnett Law has helped win millions for the people we serve. Jamie is an irreplaceable part of our team, and our clients are better off for it.

Jane Burnett

Business Manager

Jane Burnett keeps the business side of Burnett Law running like clockwork. With a steady hand and a warm presence, she ensures that our office operates efficiently so our legal team can stay focused on serving clients. Jane's behind-the-scenes leadership is felt in everything we do — from the way our office runs day to day to the experience every client has when they walk through our doors.