"Never Trust a Memorial Day BBQ" Episode 8

Memorial Day weekend in Mississippi means BBQs, alcohol, fireworks, family arguments, and sometimes criminal investigations. On this episode of Both Sides of the Bench, former prosecutor and criminal defense attorney Shaun Yurtkuran discusses how holiday weekends can quickly turn violent and how Mississippi self defense law actually works in the real world. Shaun breaks down common legal myths surrounding Castle Doctrine, Stand Your Ground, shootings inside the home, self defense involving vehicles, and what happens when police respond after a violent encounter. He also discusses how alcohol, ego, and firearms often collide in ways that lead to tragic outcomes and criminal charges. The episode also dives into some of the most common pieces of “legal bro science” people believe, including myths about Miranda rights, talking to police, warning shots, self defense law, and when force becomes retaliation. Using stories from years prosecuting violent crimes in Jackson and now defending clients charged with serious offenses, Shaun explains the difference between what people think the law is and what Mississippi law actually says.