Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-703 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-703
Commission to control court building at Jackson
Status: in_force

There is created a commission composed of the chief justice of the supreme court, who shall serve as chair, the presiding judge of the court of appeals or the presiding judge's designee, the presiding judge of the court of criminal appeals or the presiding judge's designee, the administrative director of the courts, the clerk of the supreme court, and one (1) other member from the supreme court to be elected by the membership of the supreme court, which commission is vested with the authority and jurisdiction to supervise and control the court and office building at Jackson, and to employ all necessary assistants and help for the building, and make necessary contracts therefor. Acts 1984, ch. 833, § 3; 1993, ch. 66, § 22; 1994, ch. 897, § 5.
There is created a commission composed of the chief justice of the supreme court, who shall serve as chair, the presiding judge of the court of appeals or the presiding judge's designee, the presiding judge of the court of criminal appeals or the presiding judge's designee, the administrative director of the courts, the clerk of the supreme court, and one (1) other member from the supreme court to be elected by the membership of the supreme court, which commission is vested with the authority and jurisdiction to supervise and control the court and office building at Jackson, and to employ all necessary assistants and help for the building, and make necessary contracts therefor.
Acts 1984, ch. 833, § 3; 1993, ch. 66, § 22; 1994, ch. 897, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-18-204 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 18 / Section 16-18-204
Vacancies
Status: in_force

A vacancy in the office of the popularly elected city judge shall be filled by appointment by the governing body. The person appointed, however, may serve only until the next regular August general state election. At this election, a person shall be elected to serve any unexpired term if the full term is not to be filled at the election. In the temporary absence or inability of the city judge, the governing body shall appoint a qualified person to serve until the judge's return. Acts 1993, ch. 115, § 1.
A vacancy in the office of the popularly elected city judge shall be filled by appointment by the governing body. The person appointed, however, may serve only until the next regular August general state election. At this election, a person shall be elected to serve any unexpired term if the full term is not to be filled at the election. In the temporary absence or inability of the city judge, the governing body shall appoint a qualified person to serve until the judge's return.
Acts 1993, ch. 115, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-906 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-906
Officers
Status: in_force

The council shall annually elect from its membership a chair, vice chair and other officers as deemed expedient. Acts 1998, ch. 1067, § 7.
The council shall annually elect from its membership a chair, vice chair and other officers as deemed expedient.
Acts 1998, ch. 1067, § 7.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-1-113 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 1 / Section 16-1-113
Court business and filings - Facsimile transmissions
Status: in_force

(a) It is the intent of the general assembly, in recognition of the common practice and use of facsimile transmissions (faxes) in business and government, to: (1) Promote a more efficient means of filing documents and overcome expenses and delays entailed in long distance communication; and (2) Enable courts in this state to implement procedures for the filing of documents by fax. (b) Courts in this state may implement procedures for the transmission of documents by fax machines in accordance with this section and § 16-3-408 and the Tennessee supreme court rules. Acts 1991, ch. 146, §§ 1, 2.
(a) It is the intent of the general assembly, in recognition of the common practice and use of facsimile transmissions (faxes) in business and government, to: (1) Promote a more efficient means of filing documents and overcome expenses and delays entailed in long distance communication; and (2) Enable courts in this state to implement procedures for the filing of documents by fax.
(1) Promote a more efficient means of filing documents and overcome expenses and delays entailed in long distance communication; and
(2) Enable courts in this state to implement procedures for the filing of documents by fax.
(b) Courts in this state may implement procedures for the transmission of documents by fax machines in accordance with this section and § 16-3-408 and the Tennessee supreme court rules.
Acts 1991, ch. 146, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-20-104 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 20 / Section 16-20-104
Withdrawal from dispute resolution
Status: in_force

Any person who voluntarily enters a dispute resolution process at a center established under this chapter may revoke the person's consent, withdraw from dispute resolution and seek judicial or administrative redress prior to reaching a written resolution agreement. No legal penalty, sanction or restraint may be imposed upon the person. Acts 1993, ch. 420, § 4.
Any person who voluntarily enters a dispute resolution process at a center established under this chapter may revoke the person's consent, withdraw from dispute resolution and seek judicial or administrative redress prior to reaching a written resolution agreement. No legal penalty, sanction or restraint may be imposed upon the person.
Acts 1993, ch. 420, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-212 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-212
Special personnel for expedition of post-conviction proceedings in capital cases
Status: in_force

The supreme court is authorized to employ, reassign or contract with individuals utilizing special funds appropriated solely for the purpose of providing prompt and fair adjudication of post-conviction proceedings in capital sentence cases, including authority to assign the additional personnel the duties of personnel reassigned to the post-conviction cases. In no event shall the employment, contract or expenditures under this authority extend beyond a two-year period. Acts 1993, ch. 472, § 4.
The supreme court is authorized to employ, reassign or contract with individuals utilizing special funds appropriated solely for the purpose of providing prompt and fair adjudication of post-conviction proceedings in capital sentence cases, including authority to assign the additional personnel the duties of personnel reassigned to the post-conviction cases. In no event shall the employment, contract or expenditures under this authority extend beyond a two-year period.
Acts 1993, ch. 472, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-6-106 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 6 / Section 16-6-106
Prohibited uses of veterans treatment court program grant awards
Status: in_force

The department of mental health and substance abuse services veterans treatment court program grant awards shall not be: (1) Used to pay for costs not directly related to veterans treatment court program operations; (2) Made to any court that does not agree to operate its veterans treatment court program in accordance with the principles set out in this chapter; (3) Used for construction or land acquisition; (4) Used to pay bonuses or commissions to any individuals or organizations; or (5) Used to form a corporation. Acts 2015, ch. 453, § 8.
The department of mental health and substance abuse services veterans treatment court program grant awards shall not be:
(1) Used to pay for costs not directly related to veterans treatment court program operations;
(2) Made to any court that does not agree to operate its veterans treatment court program in accordance with the principles set out in this chapter;
(3) Used for construction or land acquisition;
(4) Used to pay bonuses or commissions to any individuals or organizations; or
(5) Used to form a corporation.
Acts 2015, ch. 453, § 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-502 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-502
Supervisory procedures
Status: in_force

In addition to other constitutional, statutory and inherent power, but not restrictive thereof, the supreme court may: (1) Designate the administrative director of the courts as the chief administrative officer of the courts of the state; (2) Direct the administrative director of the courts to take all action or to perform duties that are necessary for the orderly administration of justice within the state, whether or not herein or elsewhere enumerated; (3) Direct the administrative director of the courts to provide administrative support to all of the courts of the state through an administrative office of the courts in order to: (A) Designate and assign temporarily any judge or chancellor to hold or sit as a member of any court, of comparable dignity or equal or higher level, for any good and sufficient reason; (B) Maintain a roster of retired judges who are willing and able to undertake special duties from time to time and to designate or assign them appropriate judicial duties; (C) Make a careful and continuing survey of the dockets of the circuit, criminal, chancery and other similar courts of record, and to report at periodic intervals to the court, and annually to the general assembly, information that is public record; (D) Take affirmative and appropriate action to correct and alleviate any imbalance in caseloads among the various judicial districts of the state; and (E) Take affirmative and appropriate action to correct or alleviate any condition or situation adversely affecting the administration of justice within the state; (4) Adopt, upon the recommendation of the administrative director of the courts, an annual plan providing for the orientation of newly elected or appointed judges of trial or appellate courts of record and for the appropriate continuing legal education and training of the judges; and (5) Establish and implement a policy concerning the prevention of sexual harassment. This policy shall include training workshops and the establishment of a hearing procedure. Acts 1970, ch. 422, § 2; T.C.A., § 16-331; Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 23; 1993, ch. 65, § 1; 1993, ch. 307, § 3.
In addition to other constitutional, statutory and inherent power, but not restrictive thereof, the supreme court may:
(1) Designate the administrative director of the courts as the chief administrative officer of the courts of the state;
(2) Direct the administrative director of the courts to take all action or to perform duties that are necessary for the orderly administration of justice within the state, whether or not herein or elsewhere enumerated;
(3) Direct the administrative director of the courts to provide administrative support to all of the courts of the state through an administrative office of the courts in order to: (A) Designate and assign temporarily any judge or chancellor to hold or sit as a member of any court, of comparable dignity or equal or higher level, for any good and sufficient reason; (B) Maintain a roster of retired judges who are willing and able to undertake special duties from time to time and to designate or assign them appropriate judicial duties; (C) Make a careful and continuing survey of the dockets of the circuit, criminal, chancery and other similar courts of record, and to report at periodic intervals to the court, and annually to the general assembly, information that is public record; (D) Take affirmative and appropriate action to correct and alleviate any imbalance in caseloads among the various judicial districts of the state; and (E) Take affirmative and appropriate action to correct or alleviate any condition or situation adversely affecting the administration of justice within the state;
(A) Designate and assign temporarily any judge or chancellor to hold or sit as a member of any court, of comparable dignity or equal or higher level, for any good and sufficient reason;
(B) Maintain a roster of retired judges who are willing and able to undertake special duties from time to time and to designate or assign them appropriate judicial duties;
(C) Make a careful and continuing survey of the dockets of the circuit, criminal, chancery and other similar courts of record, and to report at periodic intervals to the court, and annually to the general assembly, information that is public record;
(D) Take affirmative and appropriate action to correct and alleviate any imbalance in caseloads among the various judicial districts of the state; and
(E) Take affirmative and appropriate action to correct or alleviate any condition or situation adversely affecting the administration of justice within the state;
(4) Adopt, upon the recommendation of the administrative director of the courts, an annual plan providing for the orientation of newly elected or appointed judges of trial or appellate courts of record and for the appropriate continuing legal education and training of the judges; and
(5) Establish and implement a policy concerning the prevention of sexual harassment. This policy shall include training workshops and the establishment of a hearing procedure.
Acts 1970, ch. 422, § 2; T.C.A., § 16-331; Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 23; 1993, ch. 65, § 1; 1993, ch. 307, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-10-201 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 10 / Section 16-10-201
Duty of judge to attend court - Adjournment by clerk
Status: in_force

It is the duty of the circuit judge to attend and hold court at the time appointed by law; but if for any reason the circuit judge fails to appear, the clerk of the court may open and adjourn the court from time to time to some future day or days, or, if the clerk thinks the rights and interests of litigants or the business of the court require it, may so open and adjourn the court to some future day or days subsequent to the time allowed by law in which to hold such court. If no judge attends by four o'clock p.m. (4:00 p.m.) on the day to which the clerk last adjourned the court, then the court shall be adjourned by the clerk to the court in course. Code 1858, § 4220 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 5, § 5); Acts 1901, ch. 16, § 1; 1907, ch. 592, § 1; Shan., § 6058; mod. Code 1932, § 10313; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-515; Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 17.
It is the duty of the circuit judge to attend and hold court at the time appointed by law; but if for any reason the circuit judge fails to appear, the clerk of the court may open and adjourn the court from time to time to some future day or days, or, if the clerk thinks the rights and interests of litigants or the business of the court require it, may so open and adjourn the court to some future day or days subsequent to the time allowed by law in which to hold such court. If no judge attends by four o'clock p.m. (4:00 p.m.) on the day to which the clerk last adjourned the court, then the court shall be adjourned by the clerk to the court in course.
Code 1858, § 4220 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 5, § 5); Acts 1901, ch. 16, § 1; 1907, ch. 592, § 1; Shan., § 6058; mod. Code 1932, § 10313; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-515; Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 17.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-16-103 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 16 / Section 16-16-103
Attendance at court
Status: in_force

(a) The judge shall attend at the courthouse of the county in which the judge serves on the first Monday of every month; and shall, on first Mondays and subsequent days as may be necessary, attend to all matters and adjudicate and determine all questions and do all other acts and things required. (b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100 (c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties. Acts 1875, ch. 70, § 1; Shan., § 6006; mod. Code 1932, § 10204; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-705; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
(a) The judge shall attend at the courthouse of the county in which the judge serves on the first Monday of every month; and shall, on first Mondays and subsequent days as may be necessary, attend to all matters and adjudicate and determine all questions and do all other acts and things required.
(b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than
not more than
12,800
12,900
27,100
27,200
43,100
43,200
62,300
62,400
182,000
182,100
(c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties.
Acts 1875, ch. 70, § 1; Shan., § 6006; mod. Code 1932, § 10204; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-705; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-5005 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-5005
Judges to be licensed - Vacancies
Status: in_force

(a) (1) Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, all persons occupying the office of general sessions judge shall be licensed to practice law in this state. (2) Any person serving in the office of general sessions judge on August 1, 1990, who is not a licensed attorney may seek reelection to the position and serve as a general sessions judge as long as the person is continuously reelected. (3) If a vacancy occurs in the office of a nonattorney general sessions judge elected pursuant to this section, the vacancy shall be filled by a person licensed to practice law and the qualifications set out in subdivision (a)(1) shall thereafter apply to that position. (b) (1) Notwithstanding this section, if a vacancy occurs in the office of general sessions judge and no licensed attorney appears at the meeting when the vacancy is being filled by the county legislative body and offers to become a candidate for the office, the vacancy may be filled by a person not licensed to practice law. (2) If no licensed attorney qualifies for an election being held to fill the office of general sessions judge, or the only attorney candidate legally withdraws, the county election commission shall extend the qualification deadline for a period of ten (10) days, during which period persons not licensed to practice law may qualify to seek the office of general sessions judge. (3) Subdivision (b)(2) shall not apply in counties having a population of not less than fifty-one thousand twenty-five (51,025) nor more than fifty-one thousand one hundred twenty-five (51,125), according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census. Acts 1988, ch. 698, § 5; 1990, ch. 637, §§ 3, 4; 1990, ch. 862, § 1; 1990, ch. 1017, § 1.
(a) (1) Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, all persons occupying the office of general sessions judge shall be licensed to practice law in this state. (2) Any person serving in the office of general sessions judge on August 1, 1990, who is not a licensed attorney may seek reelection to the position and serve as a general sessions judge as long as the person is continuously reelected. (3) If a vacancy occurs in the office of a nonattorney general sessions judge elected pursuant to this section, the vacancy shall be filled by a person licensed to practice law and the qualifications set out in subdivision (a)(1) shall thereafter apply to that position.
(1) Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, all persons occupying the office of general sessions judge shall be licensed to practice law in this state.
(2) Any person serving in the office of general sessions judge on August 1, 1990, who is not a licensed attorney may seek reelection to the position and serve as a general sessions judge as long as the person is continuously reelected.
(3) If a vacancy occurs in the office of a nonattorney general sessions judge elected pursuant to this section, the vacancy shall be filled by a person licensed to practice law and the qualifications set out in subdivision (a)(1) shall thereafter apply to that position.
(b) (1) Notwithstanding this section, if a vacancy occurs in the office of general sessions judge and no licensed attorney appears at the meeting when the vacancy is being filled by the county legislative body and offers to become a candidate for the office, the vacancy may be filled by a person not licensed to practice law. (2) If no licensed attorney qualifies for an election being held to fill the office of general sessions judge, or the only attorney candidate legally withdraws, the county election commission shall extend the qualification deadline for a period of ten (10) days, during which period persons not licensed to practice law may qualify to seek the office of general sessions judge. (3) Subdivision (b)(2) shall not apply in counties having a population of not less than fifty-one thousand twenty-five (51,025) nor more than fifty-one thousand one hundred twenty-five (51,125), according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census.
(1) Notwithstanding this section, if a vacancy occurs in the office of general sessions judge and no licensed attorney appears at the meeting when the vacancy is being filled by the county legislative body and offers to become a candidate for the office, the vacancy may be filled by a person not licensed to practice law.
(2) If no licensed attorney qualifies for an election being held to fill the office of general sessions judge, or the only attorney candidate legally withdraws, the county election commission shall extend the qualification deadline for a period of ten (10) days, during which period persons not licensed to practice law may qualify to seek the office of general sessions judge.
(3) Subdivision (b)(2) shall not apply in counties having a population of not less than fifty-one thousand twenty-five (51,025) nor more than fifty-one thousand one hundred twenty-five (51,125), according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census.
Acts 1988, ch. 698, § 5; 1990, ch. 637, §§ 3, 4; 1990, ch. 862, § 1; 1990, ch. 1017, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-11-201 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 11 / Section 16-11-201
Transfers between courts
Status: in_force

Any cause pending in the chancery court may be transferred, by consent of parties, to the chancery court of another county. Code 1858, § 4308 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 4, § 10); Shan., § 6118; mod. Code 1932, § 10386; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-618.
Any cause pending in the chancery court may be transferred, by consent of parties, to the chancery court of another county.
Code 1858, § 4308 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 4, § 10); Shan., § 6118; mod. Code 1932, § 10386; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-618.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-2-518 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 2 / Section 16-2-518
Increase in positions or funding to office of public defender
Status: in_force

Any increase in local funding for positions or office expense for the district attorney general shall be accompanied by an increase in funding of seventy-five percent (75%) of the increase in funding to the office of the public defender in such district for the purpose of indigent criminal defense. Acts 1992, ch. 965, § 7; 1994, ch. 1005, § 4.
Any increase in local funding for positions or office expense for the district attorney general shall be accompanied by an increase in funding of seventy-five percent (75%) of the increase in funding to the office of the public defender in such district for the purpose of indigent criminal defense.
Acts 1992, ch. 965, § 7; 1994, ch. 1005, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-716 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-716
Warrants
Status: in_force

A civil action in the general sessions courts is commenced by a civil warrant being filed with the clerk in substance as follows: State of Tennessee ______________ County To any lawful process server to execute and return: summon ______________ defendant ____________________ to appear before the general sessions court of this county in ______________ address city or ______________, at ______________ on ______________to answer plaintiff(s) ______________ in county, time date a civil action for ______________ (include as many lines as necessary) under ____________________ dollars. This ______________ date ______________ clerk/deputy Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 267, s 1, eff. 5/4/2017. Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 25.
A civil action in the general sessions courts is commenced by a civil warrant being filed with the clerk in substance as follows:
State of Tennessee
______________ County
To any lawful process server to execute and return: summon ______________
defendant
____________________ to appear before the general sessions court of this county in ______________
address city or
______________, at ______________ on ______________to answer plaintiff(s) ______________ in
county, time date
a civil action for ______________
(include as many lines as necessary)
under ____________________ dollars. This ______________
date
______________
clerk/deputy
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 267, s 1, eff. 5/4/2017.
Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 25.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-601 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-601
Advisory commission on rules of practice and procedure
Status: in_force

(a) There shall be an advisory commission whose members shall be appointed by the supreme court and whose duty shall be to advise the supreme court from time to time respecting the rules of practice and procedure. (b) Each member shall serve for a term of three (3) years and members shall be eligible for reappointment; provided, that members shall not be appointed for more than three (3) successive terms. (c) No compensation shall be paid to any of the members; however, the expenses necessarily incurred by the members in the accomplishment of the purposes of the commission, as set out in this part, shall be reimbursable when statements of expenses are submitted pursuant to policies and guidelines promulgated by the supreme court. (d) The advisory commission has the authority to employ, subject to the approval of the administrative director of the courts and commissioner of finance and administration, legal, clerical and other assistance that may be necessary to the efficient discharge of its duties. Acts 1965, ch. 227, § 7; 1975, ch. 376, §§ 2, 4; T.C.A., § 16-118; Acts 1993, ch. 66, § 19; 1993, ch. 196, § 2; 2001, ch. 257, §§ 1 - 3.
(a) There shall be an advisory commission whose members shall be appointed by the supreme court and whose duty shall be to advise the supreme court from time to time respecting the rules of practice and procedure.
(b) Each member shall serve for a term of three (3) years and members shall be eligible for reappointment; provided, that members shall not be appointed for more than three (3) successive terms.
(c) No compensation shall be paid to any of the members; however, the expenses necessarily incurred by the members in the accomplishment of the purposes of the commission, as set out in this part, shall be reimbursable when statements of expenses are submitted pursuant to policies and guidelines promulgated by the supreme court.
(d) The advisory commission has the authority to employ, subject to the approval of the administrative director of the courts and commissioner of finance and administration, legal, clerical and other assistance that may be necessary to the efficient discharge of its duties.
Acts 1965, ch. 227, § 7; 1975, ch. 376, §§ 2, 4; T.C.A., § 16-118; Acts 1993, ch. 66, § 19; 1993, ch. 196, § 2; 2001, ch. 257, §§ 1 - 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-6-104 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 6 / Section 16-6-104
Administration by department of mental health and substance abuse services
Status: in_force

The department of mental health and substance abuse services shall administer veterans treatment court programs by: (1) Defining, developing, and gathering outcome measures for veterans treatment court programs, established by this chapter; (2) Collecting, reporting, and disseminating veterans court treatment program data; (3) Supporting a state veterans treatment mentor program; (4) Sponsoring and coordinating state veterans treatment court program training; (5) Awarding, administering, and evaluating state veterans treatment court program grants; (6) Developing standards of operation for veterans treatment court programs to ensure there is a significant population of veterans in the criminal justice system willing to volunteer to participate in veterans treatment court programs so that funds are allocated to meet the greatest need; and (7) Establishing three (3) veterans treatment court advisory committee member positions on the drug court advisory committee established by § 16-22-108 . Acts 2015, ch. 453, § 6.
The department of mental health and substance abuse services shall administer veterans treatment court programs by:
(1) Defining, developing, and gathering outcome measures for veterans treatment court programs, established by this chapter;
(2) Collecting, reporting, and disseminating veterans court treatment program data;
(3) Supporting a state veterans treatment mentor program;
(4) Sponsoring and coordinating state veterans treatment court program training;
(5) Awarding, administering, and evaluating state veterans treatment court program grants;
(6) Developing standards of operation for veterans treatment court programs to ensure there is a significant population of veterans in the criminal justice system willing to volunteer to participate in veterans treatment court programs so that funds are allocated to meet the greatest need; and
(7) Establishing three (3) veterans treatment court advisory committee member positions on the drug court advisory committee established by § 16-22-108 .
Acts 2015, ch. 453, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-16-106 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 16 / Section 16-16-106
Practice of law by judge
Status: in_force

(a) The county judge is not precluded from practicing in the supreme, chancery, circuit, and criminal courts of this state, but shall not act as counsel in any case going up from the judge's court. (b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100 (c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties. Code 1858, § 4200 (deriv. Acts 1855-1856, ch. 253, § 12); Shan., § 6026; Code 1932, § 10224; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-708; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
(a) The county judge is not precluded from practicing in the supreme, chancery, circuit, and criminal courts of this state, but shall not act as counsel in any case going up from the judge's court.
(b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than
not more than
12,800
12,900
27,100
27,200
43,100
43,200
62,300
62,400
182,000
182,100
(c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties.
Code 1858, § 4200 (deriv. Acts 1855-1856, ch. 253, § 12); Shan., § 6026; Code 1932, § 10224; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-708; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-103 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-103
Holding court at places other than county seat
Status: in_force

The county legislative body of each county shall be authorized and empowered, in its discretion, to require the court of general sessions to meet at not more than three (3) places in the county in addition to the county seat, to prescribe the place or places of meeting of the court, and to provide a courtroom, equipment and furnishings at such other places in the county in addition to the county seat for the sessions of the court. Acts 1959, ch. 109, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 7, 36; T.C.A., § 16-1103.
The county legislative body of each county shall be authorized and empowered, in its discretion, to require the court of general sessions to meet at not more than three (3) places in the county in addition to the county seat, to prescribe the place or places of meeting of the court, and to provide a courtroom, equipment and furnishings at such other places in the county in addition to the county seat for the sessions of the court.
Acts 1959, ch. 109, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 7, 36; T.C.A., § 16-1103.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-701 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-701
§ 16-15-701
Status: in_force

Any court governed by this chapter may, by local rule, allow papers to be filed, signed, or verified by electronic means that comply with technological standards promulgated by the supreme court. Pleadings and other papers filed electronically under such local rules shall be considered the same as written papers.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-10-206 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 10 / Section 16-10-206
Pleadings in absence of judge
Status: in_force

The nonattendance of a circuit court judge shall not prevent the parties from making up their pleadings in the appearance causes. Code 1858, § 4224 (deriv. Acts 1809 (Sept.), ch. 49, § 3); Shan., § 6062; Code 1932, § 10317; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-520.
The nonattendance of a circuit court judge shall not prevent the parties from making up their pleadings in the appearance causes.
Code 1858, § 4224 (deriv. Acts 1809 (Sept.), ch. 49, § 3); Shan., § 6062; Code 1932, § 10317; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-520.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-902 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-902
Purpose
Status: in_force

The purpose of the council is to ensure that uniform professional and contract standards are practiced and maintained by private corporations, enterprises and entities engaged in rendering general misdemeanor probation supervision, counseling and collection services to the courts. Acts 1998, ch. 1067, § 3.
The purpose of the council is to ensure that uniform professional and contract standards are practiced and maintained by private corporations, enterprises and entities engaged in rendering general misdemeanor probation supervision, counseling and collection services to the courts.
Acts 1998, ch. 1067, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-21-107 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 21 / Section 16-21-107
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 420, s 19, eff. 5/21/2019. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 345, s 25, eff. 5/10/2019. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 236, s 32, eff. 4/19/2013. Acts 1943, ch. 130, § 5; C. Supp. 1950, § 738.6 (Williams, §738.9); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-907; Acts 1986, ch. 909, § 4; 1989, ch. 588, §§ 9, 10; 1990, ch. 751, § 4; 1990, ch. 1024, § 16; 1992, ch. 966, § 1; 1993, ch. 65, § 4; 1994, ch. 686, § 2; 1994, ch. 1005, §§ 2, 3; 1995, ch. 326, § 1; 1999, ch. 311, §§1, 2; 2001, ch. 408, §§6, 7; 2003 , ch. 399, § 5; 2004, ch. 756, § 1.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 420, s 19, eff. 5/21/2019.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 345, s 25, eff. 5/10/2019.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 236, s 32, eff. 4/19/2013.
Acts 1943, ch. 130, § 5; C. Supp. 1950, § 738.6 (Williams, §738.9); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-907; Acts 1986, ch. 909, § 4; 1989, ch. 588, §§ 9, 10; 1990, ch. 751, § 4; 1990, ch. 1024, § 16; 1992, ch. 966, § 1; 1993, ch. 65, § 4; 1994, ch. 686, § 2; 1994, ch. 1005, §§ 2, 3; 1995, ch. 326, § 1; 1999, ch. 311, §§1, 2; 2001, ch. 408, §§6, 7; 2003 , ch. 399, § 5; 2004, ch. 756, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-11-109 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 11 / Section 16-11-109
Infants and guardians
Status: in_force

The chancery court has jurisdiction, concurrent with the county court, of the persons and estates of infants, and of the appointment and removal of guardians. Code 1858, § 4299; Shan., § 6108; Code 1932, § 10376; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-610.
The chancery court has jurisdiction, concurrent with the county court, of the persons and estates of infants, and of the appointment and removal of guardians.
Code 1858, § 4299; Shan., § 6108; Code 1932, § 10376; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-610.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-22-107 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 22 / Section 16-22-107
Prohibited use of grant awards
Status: in_force

Department of mental health and substance abuse services grant awards may not be: (1) Used to pay for wages not directly related to drug court treatment program operations; (2) Made to any court that does not agree to operate its program in accordance with the principles in § 16-22-104 ; (3) Used for construction or land acquisition; (4) Used to pay bonuses or commissions to any individuals or organizations; or (5) Used to form a corporation. Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 453,s 13, eff. 7/1/2015. Acts 2003, ch. 335, § 1.
Department of mental health and substance abuse services grant awards may not be:
(1) Used to pay for wages not directly related to drug court treatment program operations;
(2) Made to any court that does not agree to operate its program in accordance with the principles in § 16-22-104 ;
(3) Used for construction or land acquisition;
(4) Used to pay bonuses or commissions to any individuals or organizations; or
(5) Used to form a corporation.
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 453,s 13, eff. 7/1/2015.
Acts 2003, ch. 335, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-21-109 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 21 / Section 16-21-109
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 420, s 21, eff. 5/21/2019. Acts 1943, ch. 130, § 7; C. Supp. 1950, § 738.8 (Williams, §738.11); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-909.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 420, s 21, eff. 5/21/2019.
Acts 1943, ch. 130, § 7; C. Supp. 1950, § 738.8 (Williams, §738.11); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-909.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-2-505 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 2 / Section 16-2-505
Election of additional judges - Secretary - Courtroom security - Judicial candidates
Status: in_force

(a) In any judicial district in which § 16-2-506 requires the election of an additional judge, the election shall occur in August of that year. The qualified voters of the judicial district in which the election is required shall elect a person to the office of judge for that district. That person shall possess the same qualifications, powers and duties and shall receive the same compensation, payable in the same manner, benefits, emoluments and dignity of office as is required or provided by law for other judges. (b) (1) If the election occurs in 1984, 1986, or 1988, the person elected shall hold office until September 1, 1990, and until that person's successor is elected and qualified. Thereafter, a judge shall be elected for an eight-year term. At the regular August election in 1990, the qualified voters of all judicial districts required by § 16-2-506 to elect an additional judge in such year shall elect a person to such office for a full eight-year term. The person elected in 1990 as an additional judge for each such district shall possess the same qualifications, powers and duties and shall receive the same compensation, payable in the same manner, benefits, emoluments and dignity of office as is required or provided by law for other circuit court judges. (2) If the election occurs in 1992, 1994, or 1996, the person elected shall hold office until September 1, 1998, and until the person's successor is elected and qualified. Thereafter, a judge shall be elected for an eight-year term. At the regular August election in 1998, the qualified voters of all judicial districts required by § 16-2-506 to elect an additional judge in 1992, 1994, 1996 or 1998 shall elect a person to such office for a full eight-year term. The person elected in 1998 shall possess the same qualifications, powers and duties and shall receive the same compensation, payable in the same manner, benefits, emoluments and dignity of office as is required or provided by law for other circuit court judges or chancellors. (3) If the election occurs in 2000, 2002, or 2004, the person elected shall hold office until September 1, 2006, and until the person's successor is elected and qualified. Thereafter, a judge shall be elected for an eight-year term. At the regular August election in 2006, the qualified voters of all judicial districts required by § 16-2-506 to elect an additional judge in 2000, 2002, 2004 or 2006 shall elect a person to such office for a full eight-year term. The person elected in 2006 shall possess the same qualifications, powers and duties and shall receive the same compensation, payable in the same manner, benefits, emoluments and dignity of office as is required or provided by law for other circuit court judges or chancellors. (4) Any vacancy occurring in the office of one (1) of the circuit court judges elected pursuant to § 16-2-506 shall be filled as provided by law. (c) Upon the election of a judge pursuant to § 16-2-506 , there is created the position of secretary for that judge. The judge shall select a suitable person to fill the position of secretary and that person shall receive the same compensation, payable in the same manner, as is provided by law for the secretary of the other judges in the district. The secretary shall perform the duties assigned by the judge. (d) (1) It is the responsibility of the counties comprising the judicial district to provide a judge elected pursuant to § 16-2-506 with sufficient space and facilities in which to conduct the business and duties of the court. (2) Each county shall establish a court security committee composed of the county mayor, sheriff, district attorney general, the presiding judge of the judicial district and a court clerk from the county to be designated by the presiding judge, for the purpose of examining the space and facilities to determine the security needs of the courtrooms in the county in order to provide safe and secure facilities. (3) Upon completion of the examination of security needs, the following procedure shall be followed: (A) The administrative office of the courts shall distribute to each court security committee a copy of the minimum security standards as adopted by the Tennessee judicial conference, and each committee shall review and consider these standards in determining court security needs; (B) No later than May 15 each year, the court security committee shall report its findings to the county legislative body and the administrative office of the courts; (C) The county legislative body shall review and consider the recommendations of the court security committee in the preparation of each fiscal year budget; (D) No later than December 1 each year, the county legislative body shall report to the administrative office of the courts any action taken to meet the security needs; (E) No later than January 15 each year, the administrative office of the courts shall report to the general assembly on the compliance by each county government with the security needs established by the court security committee. (4) Any recommendation by the court security committee requiring county expenditures shall be subject to approval of the county legislative body. (e) Any person who seeks election to the office of circuit court judge, criminal court judge, law and equity court judge or chancellor, whether the judgeship is created by this part or was in existence on April 1, 1984, shall qualify as provided by law with the various election commissions in the counties comprising the judicial district in which the person seeks election. At the time of qualification, the person shall designate to each such commission the court and part of the court, if any, to which that person seeks election. If properly qualified, the names of all of the judicial candidates shall appear on the official ballot by the court and part of court, if any, previously designated and the candidate who shall receive the highest number of votes cast for judge of each part of each court shall be declared elected. Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 5; 1993, ch. 506, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 225, § 1; 2001, ch. 268, § 1; 2003 , ch. 90, § 2.
(a) In any judicial district in which § 16-2-506 requires the election of an additional judge, the election shall occur in August of that year. The qualified voters of the judicial district in which the election is required shall elect a person to the office of judge for that district. That person shall possess the same qualifications, powers and duties and shall receive the same compensation, payable in the same manner, benefits, emoluments and dignity of office as is required or provided by law for other judges.
(b) (1) If the election occurs in 1984, 1986, or 1988, the person elected shall hold office until September 1, 1990, and until that person's successor is elected and qualified. Thereafter, a judge shall be elected for an eight-year term. At the regular August election in 1990, the qualified voters of all judicial districts required by § 16-2-506 to elect an additional judge in such year shall elect a person to such office for a full eight-year term. The person elected in 1990 as an additional judge for each such district shall possess the same qualifications, powers and duties and shall receive the same compensation, payable in the same manner, benefits, emoluments and dignity of office as is required or provided by law for other circuit court judges. (2) If the election occurs in 1992, 1994, or 1996, the person elected shall hold office until September 1, 1998, and until the person's successor is elected and qualified. Thereafter, a judge shall be elected for an eight-year term. At the regular August election in 1998, the qualified voters of all judicial districts required by § 16-2-506 to elect an additional judge in 1992, 1994, 1996 or 1998 shall elect a person to such office for a full eight-year term. The person elected in 1998 shall possess the same qualifications, powers and duties and shall receive the same compensation, payable in the same manner, benefits, emoluments and dignity of office as is required or provided by law for other circuit court judges or chancellors. (3) If the election occurs in 2000, 2002, or 2004, the person elected shall hold office until September 1, 2006, and until the person's successor is elected and qualified. Thereafter, a judge shall be elected for an eight-year term. At the regular August election in 2006, the qualified voters of all judicial districts required by § 16-2-506 to elect an additional judge in 2000, 2002, 2004 or 2006 shall elect a person to such office for a full eight-year term. The person elected in 2006 shall possess the same qualifications, powers and duties and shall receive the same compensation, payable in the same manner, benefits, emoluments and dignity of office as is required or provided by law for other circuit court judges or chancellors. (4) Any vacancy occurring in the office of one (1) of the circuit court judges elected pursuant to § 16-2-506 shall be filled as provided by law.
(1) If the election occurs in 1984, 1986, or 1988, the person elected shall hold office until September 1, 1990, and until that person's successor is elected and qualified. Thereafter, a judge shall be elected for an eight-year term. At the regular August election in 1990, the qualified voters of all judicial districts required by § 16-2-506 to elect an additional judge in such year shall elect a person to such office for a full eight-year term. The person elected in 1990 as an additional judge for each such district shall possess the same qualifications, powers and duties and shall receive the same compensation, payable in the same manner, benefits, emoluments and dignity of office as is required or provided by law for other circuit court judges.
(2) If the election occurs in 1992, 1994, or 1996, the person elected shall hold office until September 1, 1998, and until the person's successor is elected and qualified. Thereafter, a judge shall be elected for an eight-year term. At the regular August election in 1998, the qualified voters of all judicial districts required by § 16-2-506 to elect an additional judge in 1992, 1994, 1996 or 1998 shall elect a person to such office for a full eight-year term. The person elected in 1998 shall possess the same qualifications, powers and duties and shall receive the same compensation, payable in the same manner, benefits, emoluments and dignity of office as is required or provided by law for other circuit court judges or chancellors.
(3) If the election occurs in 2000, 2002, or 2004, the person elected shall hold office until September 1, 2006, and until the person's successor is elected and qualified. Thereafter, a judge shall be elected for an eight-year term. At the regular August election in 2006, the qualified voters of all judicial districts required by § 16-2-506 to elect an additional judge in 2000, 2002, 2004 or 2006 shall elect a person to such office for a full eight-year term. The person elected in 2006 shall possess the same qualifications, powers and duties and shall receive the same compensation, payable in the same manner, benefits, emoluments and dignity of office as is required or provided by law for other circuit court judges or chancellors.
(4) Any vacancy occurring in the office of one (1) of the circuit court judges elected pursuant to § 16-2-506 shall be filled as provided by law.
(c) Upon the election of a judge pursuant to § 16-2-506 , there is created the position of secretary for that judge. The judge shall select a suitable person to fill the position of secretary and that person shall receive the same compensation, payable in the same manner, as is provided by law for the secretary of the other judges in the district. The secretary shall perform the duties assigned by the judge.
(d) (1) It is the responsibility of the counties comprising the judicial district to provide a judge elected pursuant to § 16-2-506 with sufficient space and facilities in which to conduct the business and duties of the court. (2) Each county shall establish a court security committee composed of the county mayor, sheriff, district attorney general, the presiding judge of the judicial district and a court clerk from the county to be designated by the presiding judge, for the purpose of examining the space and facilities to determine the security needs of the courtrooms in the county in order to provide safe and secure facilities. (3) Upon completion of the examination of security needs, the following procedure shall be followed: (A) The administrative office of the courts shall distribute to each court security committee a copy of the minimum security standards as adopted by the Tennessee judicial conference, and each committee shall review and consider these standards in determining court security needs; (B) No later than May 15 each year, the court security committee shall report its findings to the county legislative body and the administrative office of the courts; (C) The county legislative body shall review and consider the recommendations of the court security committee in the preparation of each fiscal year budget; (D) No later than December 1 each year, the county legislative body shall report to the administrative office of the courts any action taken to meet the security needs; (E) No later than January 15 each year, the administrative office of the courts shall report to the general assembly on the compliance by each county government with the security needs established by the court security committee. (4) Any recommendation by the court security committee requiring county expenditures shall be subject to approval of the county legislative body.
(1) It is the responsibility of the counties comprising the judicial district to provide a judge elected pursuant to § 16-2-506 with sufficient space and facilities in which to conduct the business and duties of the court.
(2) Each county shall establish a court security committee composed of the county mayor, sheriff, district attorney general, the presiding judge of the judicial district and a court clerk from the county to be designated by the presiding judge, for the purpose of examining the space and facilities to determine the security needs of the courtrooms in the county in order to provide safe and secure facilities.
(3) Upon completion of the examination of security needs, the following procedure shall be followed: (A) The administrative office of the courts shall distribute to each court security committee a copy of the minimum security standards as adopted by the Tennessee judicial conference, and each committee shall review and consider these standards in determining court security needs; (B) No later than May 15 each year, the court security committee shall report its findings to the county legislative body and the administrative office of the courts; (C) The county legislative body shall review and consider the recommendations of the court security committee in the preparation of each fiscal year budget; (D) No later than December 1 each year, the county legislative body shall report to the administrative office of the courts any action taken to meet the security needs; (E) No later than January 15 each year, the administrative office of the courts shall report to the general assembly on the compliance by each county government with the security needs established by the court security committee.
(A) The administrative office of the courts shall distribute to each court security committee a copy of the minimum security standards as adopted by the Tennessee judicial conference, and each committee shall review and consider these standards in determining court security needs;
(B) No later than May 15 each year, the court security committee shall report its findings to the county legislative body and the administrative office of the courts;
(C) The county legislative body shall review and consider the recommendations of the court security committee in the preparation of each fiscal year budget;
(D) No later than December 1 each year, the county legislative body shall report to the administrative office of the courts any action taken to meet the security needs;
(E) No later than January 15 each year, the administrative office of the courts shall report to the general assembly on the compliance by each county government with the security needs established by the court security committee.
(4) Any recommendation by the court security committee requiring county expenditures shall be subject to approval of the county legislative body.
(e) Any person who seeks election to the office of circuit court judge, criminal court judge, law and equity court judge or chancellor, whether the judgeship is created by this part or was in existence on April 1, 1984, shall qualify as provided by law with the various election commissions in the counties comprising the judicial district in which the person seeks election. At the time of qualification, the person shall designate to each such commission the court and part of the court, if any, to which that person seeks election. If properly qualified, the names of all of the judicial candidates shall appear on the official ballot by the court and part of court, if any, previously designated and the candidate who shall receive the highest number of votes cast for judge of each part of each court shall be declared elected.
Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 5; 1993, ch. 506, §§ 1, 2; 1995, ch. 225, § 1; 2001, ch. 268, § 1; 2003 , ch. 90, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-720 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-720
Continuances
Status: in_force

A continuance may be granted in the judge's discretion. Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 25.
A continuance may be granted in the judge's discretion.
Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 25.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-210 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-210
Vacancy in office of judge - Filling
Status: in_force

(a) Except as provided in subsection (b), any vacancy in the office of judge of the court of general sessions shall be filled by the county legislative body as provided in § 5-1-104 . (b) (1) In a multi-county court, the vacancy shall be filled by concurring resolutions of the legislative bodies of the affected counties. (2) In the event of nonconcurrence, the vacancy shall be filled by resolution of the legislative body of the county of residence of the last judge of the multi-county court. (c) (1) In the event of an interim suspension of a general sessions court or juvenile court judge pursuant to § 17-5-306(f) , the county legislative body shall appoint a temporary replacement to serve until the interim suspension is lifted or the office becomes vacant. (2) In a multi-county court, the temporary replacement shall be appointed by concurring resolutions of the legislative bodies of the affected counties. In the event of nonconcurrence, the temporary replacement shall be appointed by resolution of the legislative body of the county of residence of the judge who has been suspended. Acts 1959, ch. 109, § 15; T.C.A., § 16-1115; Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 7; 1998, ch. 669, § 1.
(a) Except as provided in subsection (b), any vacancy in the office of judge of the court of general sessions shall be filled by the county legislative body as provided in § 5-1-104 .
(b) (1) In a multi-county court, the vacancy shall be filled by concurring resolutions of the legislative bodies of the affected counties. (2) In the event of nonconcurrence, the vacancy shall be filled by resolution of the legislative body of the county of residence of the last judge of the multi-county court.
(1) In a multi-county court, the vacancy shall be filled by concurring resolutions of the legislative bodies of the affected counties.
(2) In the event of nonconcurrence, the vacancy shall be filled by resolution of the legislative body of the county of residence of the last judge of the multi-county court.
(c) (1) In the event of an interim suspension of a general sessions court or juvenile court judge pursuant to § 17-5-306(f) , the county legislative body shall appoint a temporary replacement to serve until the interim suspension is lifted or the office becomes vacant. (2) In a multi-county court, the temporary replacement shall be appointed by concurring resolutions of the legislative bodies of the affected counties. In the event of nonconcurrence, the temporary replacement shall be appointed by resolution of the legislative body of the county of residence of the judge who has been suspended.
(1) In the event of an interim suspension of a general sessions court or juvenile court judge pursuant to § 17-5-306(f) , the county legislative body shall appoint a temporary replacement to serve until the interim suspension is lifted or the office becomes vacant.
(2) In a multi-county court, the temporary replacement shall be appointed by concurring resolutions of the legislative bodies of the affected counties. In the event of nonconcurrence, the temporary replacement shall be appointed by resolution of the legislative body of the county of residence of the judge who has been suspended.
Acts 1959, ch. 109, § 15; T.C.A., § 16-1115; Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 7; 1998, ch. 669, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-806 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-806
Appropriation of funds for special personnel assigned to capital sentence costs
Status: in_force

All funds appropriated solely to employ, contract with or reassign personnel for the purpose of providing prompt and fair adjudication of post-conviction proceedings in capital sentence cases shall be appropriated to the administrative director of the courts to be allocated to, and pursuant to standards established by agreement of, the chief justice, the attorney general and reporter, the executive director of the conference of district attorneys general and the executive director of the conference of district public defenders. In addition, funds may be allocated and grants given to the offices of public defenders in Shelby and Davidson counties. Notice of intended allocations shall be given to the commissioner of finance and administration. Acts 1993, ch. 472, § 5; 1996, ch. 610, § 4; 1996, ch. 996, § 2.
All funds appropriated solely to employ, contract with or reassign personnel for the purpose of providing prompt and fair adjudication of post-conviction proceedings in capital sentence cases shall be appropriated to the administrative director of the courts to be allocated to, and pursuant to standards established by agreement of, the chief justice, the attorney general and reporter, the executive director of the conference of district attorneys general and the executive director of the conference of district public defenders. In addition, funds may be allocated and grants given to the offices of public defenders in Shelby and Davidson counties. Notice of intended allocations shall be given to the commissioner of finance and administration.
Acts 1993, ch. 472, § 5; 1996, ch. 610, § 4; 1996, ch. 996, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-101 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-101
Establishment - Certain counties excepted
Status: in_force

(a) There is created and established a court in and for each county of the state, except in counties having a population of not less than nine thousand one hundred seventy-five (9,175) nor more than nine thousand two hundred (9,200), according to the last federal census or any subsequent federal census, which shall be designated as the court of general sessions. (b) It is the intent of this section to create a general sessions court in every county not expressly excepted in this section. In any county where a general sessions court has been created pursuant to the general provisions of this chapter, it is intended that the county shall always have a general sessions court unless abolished by another general statute. In counties in which there is no court of general sessions as provided in this section, references in this code to the court of general sessions are deemed to include the court having the jurisdiction of the court of general sessions in such counties. Acts 1959, ch. 109, §§ 1, 22; 1959, ch. 255, § 1; 1959, ch. 265, § 1; 1961, ch. 30, § 1; 1961, ch. 51, § 1; 1961, ch. 188, § 1; 1963, ch. 307, §§ 1, 2; 1965, ch. 116, § 1; 1974, ch. 507, § 1; 1976, ch. 738, § 1; 1979, ch. 68, § 1; T.C.A., § 16-1101; Acts 1998, ch. 573, § 1.
(a) There is created and established a court in and for each county of the state, except in counties having a population of not less than nine thousand one hundred seventy-five (9,175) nor more than nine thousand two hundred (9,200), according to the last federal census or any subsequent federal census, which shall be designated as the court of general sessions.
(b) It is the intent of this section to create a general sessions court in every county not expressly excepted in this section. In any county where a general sessions court has been created pursuant to the general provisions of this chapter, it is intended that the county shall always have a general sessions court unless abolished by another general statute. In counties in which there is no court of general sessions as provided in this section, references in this code to the court of general sessions are deemed to include the court having the jurisdiction of the court of general sessions in such counties.
Acts 1959, ch. 109, §§ 1, 22; 1959, ch. 255, § 1; 1959, ch. 265, § 1; 1961, ch. 30, § 1; 1961, ch. 51, § 1; 1961, ch. 188, § 1; 1963, ch. 307, §§ 1, 2; 1965, ch. 116, § 1; 1974, ch. 507, § 1; 1976, ch. 738, § 1; 1979, ch. 68, § 1; T.C.A., § 16-1101; Acts 1998, ch. 573, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-11-105 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 11 / Section 16-11-105
Suits by state against corporations
Status: in_force

The court has power to hear and determine all controversies between the state and corporations, their stockholders or creditors, upon a bill filed by the attorney general and reporter on behalf of the state. Code 1858, § 4296 (deriv. Acts 1839-1840, ch. 1, § 4); Shan., § 6105; mod. Code 1932, § 10366; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-605.
The court has power to hear and determine all controversies between the state and corporations, their stockholders or creditors, upon a bill filed by the attorney general and reporter on behalf of the state.
Code 1858, § 4296 (deriv. Acts 1839-1840, ch. 1, § 4); Shan., § 6105; mod. Code 1932, § 10366; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-605.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-4-109 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 4 / Section 16-4-109
Number of judges necessary to decision
Status: in_force

(a) When sitting in sections of three (3) judges each, the concurrence of two (2) of the judges shall be sufficient to determine all matters coming before the section; and such action, without more, shall have effect, in all respects, as if the entire court of appeals had participated in the action. (b) When the court sits en banc, the concurrence of seven (7) of the judges, and, when two (2) sections sit together, the concurrence of five (5) of the judges, shall so suffice and be effective. Acts 1925, ch. 100, § 5; Shan. Supp., § 6325a5; mod. Code 1932, §§ 10612, 10613; Acts 1978, ch. 836, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-409.
(a) When sitting in sections of three (3) judges each, the concurrence of two (2) of the judges shall be sufficient to determine all matters coming before the section; and such action, without more, shall have effect, in all respects, as if the entire court of appeals had participated in the action.
(b) When the court sits en banc, the concurrence of seven (7) of the judges, and, when two (2) sections sit together, the concurrence of five (5) of the judges, shall so suffice and be effective.
Acts 1925, ch. 100, § 5; Shan. Supp., § 6325a5; mod. Code 1932, §§ 10612, 10613; Acts 1978, ch. 836, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-409.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-806 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-806
Executions enforceable in all counties
Status: in_force

Except with regard to executions on real property that are governed by §§ 16-15-804 and 16-15-805 , after the time for filing appeal has expired, the procedure for executions and proceedings supplementary to and in aid of judgments of courts of general sessions, including, but not limited to, garnishments, shall be enforceable in every county in this state in the same manner as a judgment of a court of record. Code 1858, §§ 3073-3075 (deriv. Acts 1805, ch. 66, §§ 4, 6; Acts 1851-1852, ch. 181, § 3); Shan., §§ 4801-4803; Code 1932, §§ 8932-8934; Acts 1970, ch. 453, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 19-615 -- 19-617; Acts 1989, ch. 404, § 4; 1993, ch. 241, § 53; T.C.A., § 19-3-106.
Except with regard to executions on real property that are governed by §§ 16-15-804 and 16-15-805 , after the time for filing appeal has expired, the procedure for executions and proceedings supplementary to and in aid of judgments of courts of general sessions, including, but not limited to, garnishments, shall be enforceable in every county in this state in the same manner as a judgment of a court of record.
Code 1858, §§ 3073-3075 (deriv. Acts 1805, ch. 66, §§ 4, 6; Acts 1851-1852, ch. 181, § 3); Shan., §§ 4801-4803; Code 1932, §§ 8932-8934; Acts 1970, ch. 453, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 19-615 -- 19-617; Acts 1989, ch. 404, § 4; 1993, ch. 241, § 53; T.C.A., § 19-3-106.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-504 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-504
Plenary and discretionary powers
Status: in_force

This part shall constitute a broad conference of full, plenary and discretionary power upon the supreme court. Acts 1970, ch. 422, § 4; T.C.A., § 16-333.
This part shall constitute a broad conference of full, plenary and discretionary power upon the supreme court.
Acts 1970, ch. 422, § 4; T.C.A., § 16-333.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-22-101 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 22 / Section 16-22-101
Short title
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Drug Court Treatment Act of 2003." Acts 2003, ch. 335, § 1.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Drug Court Treatment Act of 2003."
Acts 2003, ch. 335, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-719 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-719
Appeal bond
Status: in_force

An appeal bond returned with other papers to the circuit court is a conclusive presumption that an appeal was taken. Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 25.
An appeal bond returned with other papers to the circuit court is a conclusive presumption that an appeal was taken.
Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 25.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-18-101 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 18 / Section 16-18-101
Governing body may provide for office of municipal judge
Status: in_force

In any municipality in this state having a mayor's court or a municipal court presided over by the mayor of the municipality or the city recorder of the municipality and having no other provision for a municipal judge for the municipality, the governing body of the municipality is authorized by ordinance to provide for the office of municipal judge. Acts 1973, ch. 330, § 1; 1975, ch. 231, § 1; T.C.A., § 17-123; modified; T.C.A., § 17-1-501.
In any municipality in this state having a mayor's court or a municipal court presided over by the mayor of the municipality or the city recorder of the municipality and having no other provision for a municipal judge for the municipality, the governing body of the municipality is authorized by ordinance to provide for the office of municipal judge.
Acts 1973, ch. 330, § 1; 1975, ch. 231, § 1; T.C.A., § 17-123; modified; T.C.A., § 17-1-501.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-722 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-722
Attachment
Status: in_force

(a) General sessions courts have jurisdiction as in subsection (b) to proceed by attachment against the property of the defendant, in the same way as the courts of record, under the rules, regulations and provisions in this code prescribed in regard to proceedings by attachment, as far as they are applicable and not controlled by other express provisions. (b) The jurisdiction of general sessions courts in attachment cases is limited to the amount of their jurisdiction over the subject matter of suit or cause of action. Code 1858, §§ 4173, 4174; Shan., §§ 5985, 5986; Code 1932, §§ 10186, 10187; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 19-405, 19-406; Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 33; T.C.A., § 19-1-105.
(a) General sessions courts have jurisdiction as in subsection (b) to proceed by attachment against the property of the defendant, in the same way as the courts of record, under the rules, regulations and provisions in this code prescribed in regard to proceedings by attachment, as far as they are applicable and not controlled by other express provisions.
(b) The jurisdiction of general sessions courts in attachment cases is limited to the amount of their jurisdiction over the subject matter of suit or cause of action.
Code 1858, §§ 4173, 4174; Shan., §§ 5985, 5986; Code 1932, §§ 10186, 10187; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 19-405, 19-406; Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 33; T.C.A., § 19-1-105.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-729 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-729
Trial de novo on appeal - Decision on merits
Status: in_force

No civil case, originating in a general sessions court and carried to a higher court, shall be dismissed by such court for any informality whatever, but shall be tried on its merits; and the court shall allow all amendments in the form of action, the parties thereto, or the statement of the cause of action, necessary to reach the merits, upon such terms as may be deemed just and proper. The trial shall be de novo, including damages. Code 1858, § 4177 (deriv. Acts 1851-1852, ch. 100, § 2); Shan., § 5989; mod. Code 1932, § 10190; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 19-425; Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 46; T.C.A., § 19-1-118; Acts 1995, ch. 418, § 1.
No civil case, originating in a general sessions court and carried to a higher court, shall be dismissed by such court for any informality whatever, but shall be tried on its merits; and the court shall allow all amendments in the form of action, the parties thereto, or the statement of the cause of action, necessary to reach the merits, upon such terms as may be deemed just and proper. The trial shall be de novo, including damages.
Code 1858, § 4177 (deriv. Acts 1851-1852, ch. 100, § 2); Shan., § 5989; mod. Code 1932, § 10190; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 19-425; Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 46; T.C.A., § 19-1-118; Acts 1995, ch. 418, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-405 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-405
Publication of rules
Status: in_force

All rules adopted by the supreme court shall be published in the Tennessee Code Annotated and may be publicized both before and after becoming effective in a manner that the supreme court deems appropriate. Acts 1965, ch. 227, § 4; T.C.A., § 16-115.
All rules adopted by the supreme court shall be published in the Tennessee Code Annotated and may be publicized both before and after becoming effective in a manner that the supreme court deems appropriate.
Acts 1965, ch. 227, § 4; T.C.A., § 16-115.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-731 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-731
Actions in the nature of interpleader
Status: in_force

(a) Notwithstanding any rule of court or any law to the contrary, actions in the nature of interpleader, in which the value of the money that is the subject of the action does not exceed the jurisdictional limit of the general sessions court, may be filed in general sessions court under this part. Any such action involving money in the custody or possession of a person acting in the capacity of a real estate broker may be filed on forms prescribed by the Tennessee real estate commission pursuant to its authority under § 62-13-203 . (b) The failure of a competing claimant to recover in an interpleader action shall not be considered as a judgment against the competing claimant, and shall not be used to impair the credit of the claimant. Acts 1987, ch. 331, § 1; 1988, ch. 523, § 1; 1991, ch. 338, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 241, § 49; T.C.A., § 19-1-121.
(a) Notwithstanding any rule of court or any law to the contrary, actions in the nature of interpleader, in which the value of the money that is the subject of the action does not exceed the jurisdictional limit of the general sessions court, may be filed in general sessions court under this part. Any such action involving money in the custody or possession of a person acting in the capacity of a real estate broker may be filed on forms prescribed by the Tennessee real estate commission pursuant to its authority under § 62-13-203 .
(b) The failure of a competing claimant to recover in an interpleader action shall not be considered as a judgment against the competing claimant, and shall not be used to impair the credit of the claimant.
Acts 1987, ch. 331, § 1; 1988, ch. 523, § 1; 1991, ch. 338, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 241, § 49; T.C.A., § 19-1-121.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-18-201 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 18 / Section 16-18-201
Ordinances - Election
Status: in_force

Any incorporated city or town may by ordinance provide for the election of a city judge or judges by popular vote. The popular election of the judge or judges may be an alternative to the method provided in the charter or applicable general law provisions or in addition to that method, with one (1) or more judges being chosen under charter or applicable general law provisions and one (1) or more being chosen by popular vote pursuant to this part. In the election for city judge, only qualified voters of the city or town may vote. Acts 1993, ch. 115, § 1.
Any incorporated city or town may by ordinance provide for the election of a city judge or judges by popular vote. The popular election of the judge or judges may be an alternative to the method provided in the charter or applicable general law provisions or in addition to that method, with one (1) or more judges being chosen under charter or applicable general law provisions and one (1) or more being chosen by popular vote pursuant to this part. In the election for city judge, only qualified voters of the city or town may vote.
Acts 1993, ch. 115, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-307 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-307
Rules for terms and transfers
Status: in_force

The court is empowered to make all necessary rules to carry out the purposes of §§ 16-2-104 , 16-3-305 , and 16-3-306 , and to expedite the hearing of cases. Acts 1915, ch. 95, § 4; Shan., § 135a4; Code 1932, § 157; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-322.
The court is empowered to make all necessary rules to carry out the purposes of §§ 16-2-104 , 16-3-305 , and 16-3-306 , and to expedite the hearing of cases.
Acts 1915, ch. 95, § 4; Shan., § 135a4; Code 1932, § 157; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-322.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-10-101 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 10 / Section 16-10-101
General jurisdiction
Status: in_force

The circuit court is a court of general jurisdiction, and the judge of the circuit court shall administer right and justice according to law, in all cases where the jurisdiction is not conferred upon another tribunal. Code 1858, § 4225 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 5, § 7); Shan., § 6063; Code 1932, § 10318; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-501.
The circuit court is a court of general jurisdiction, and the judge of the circuit court shall administer right and justice according to law, in all cases where the jurisdiction is not conferred upon another tribunal.
Code 1858, § 4225 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 5, § 7); Shan., § 6063; Code 1932, § 10318; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-501.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-18-301 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 18 / Section 16-18-301
Short title - Construction of terms
Status: in_force

(a) This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Municipal Court Reform Act of 2004." (b) As used in this part: (1) "Any law to the contrary" includes, but is not limited to, any conflicting provision of any general statute, local law, private act, charter provision, municipal law or municipal ordinance; and (2) "Municipal court" includes the city, town, mayor's, recorder's or municipal court, or other similarly functioning court, however designated, for any city, town, municipality or metropolitan government, whether the court exists pursuant to general statute, local law, private act, charter provision, municipal law, municipal ordinance or other legal authorization. Acts 2004, ch. 914, § 1.
(a) This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Municipal Court Reform Act of 2004."
(b) As used in this part: (1) "Any law to the contrary" includes, but is not limited to, any conflicting provision of any general statute, local law, private act, charter provision, municipal law or municipal ordinance; and (2) "Municipal court" includes the city, town, mayor's, recorder's or municipal court, or other similarly functioning court, however designated, for any city, town, municipality or metropolitan government, whether the court exists pursuant to general statute, local law, private act, charter provision, municipal law, municipal ordinance or other legal authorization.
(1) "Any law to the contrary" includes, but is not limited to, any conflicting provision of any general statute, local law, private act, charter provision, municipal law or municipal ordinance; and
(2) "Municipal court" includes the city, town, mayor's, recorder's or municipal court, or other similarly functioning court, however designated, for any city, town, municipality or metropolitan government, whether the court exists pursuant to general statute, local law, private act, charter provision, municipal law, municipal ordinance or other legal authorization.
Acts 2004, ch. 914, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-302 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-302
Adjourned terms
Status: in_force

The court may sit upon its own adjournment, and hold its term at any time, for the purpose of hearing and deciding unfinished business. Code 1858, § 4511 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 3, § 6); Shan., § 6345; Code 1932, § 10647; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-317.
The court may sit upon its own adjournment, and hold its term at any time, for the purpose of hearing and deciding unfinished business.
Code 1858, § 4511 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 3, § 6); Shan., § 6345; Code 1932, § 10647; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-317.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-5007 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-5007
Administrative director of Tennessee general sessions judge's conference - Litigation tax for state
Status: in_force

The administrative director of the courts shall also serve as the administrative director of the Tennessee general sessions judges' conference. The administrative director of the courts may serve the conference with existing staff or may, with a portion of the proceeds of the litigation tax earmarked to the administrative director's office, employ such additional staff as may be necessary to adequately serve the general sessions judges. Acts 1988, ch. 698, § 6; 1990, ch. 637, § 6; 1993, ch. 66, § 25; 1993, ch. 241, § 24; 2005, ch. 429, § 19.
The administrative director of the courts shall also serve as the administrative director of the Tennessee general sessions judges' conference. The administrative director of the courts may serve the conference with existing staff or may, with a portion of the proceeds of the litigation tax earmarked to the administrative director's office, employ such additional staff as may be necessary to adequately serve the general sessions judges.
Acts 1988, ch. 698, § 6; 1990, ch. 637, § 6; 1993, ch. 66, § 25; 1993, ch. 241, § 24; 2005, ch. 429, § 19.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-18-306 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 18 / Section 16-18-306
Fine for contempt of municipal court
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, contempt of a municipal court shall be punishable by fine in the amount of fifty dollars ($50.00), or such lesser amount as may be imposed in the judge's discretion. Acts 2004, ch. 914, § 2.
Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, contempt of a municipal court shall be punishable by fine in the amount of fifty dollars ($50.00), or such lesser amount as may be imposed in the judge's discretion.
Acts 2004, ch. 914, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-5-103 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 5 / Section 16-5-103
Election of judges - Oath
Status: in_force

(a) The judges of the court of criminal appeals shall be elected by the qualified voters of the state in a statewide retention election conducted in accordance with title 17, chapter 4, part 1. Vacancies on the court of criminal appeals shall be filled by the governor in accordance with title 17, chapter 4, part 1. (b) Their oath of office shall be filed and entered on the minutes of the court in the particular grand division from which the judge has been appointed or elected. The oath shall likewise be filed and entered on the records in the office of the secretary of state at Nashville. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 528,s 19, eff. 1/28/2016. Acts 1967, ch. 226, § 3; 1969, ch. 330, § 3; 1976, ch. 636, § 2; modified; T.C.A., § 16-443.
(a) The judges of the court of criminal appeals shall be elected by the qualified voters of the state in a statewide retention election conducted in accordance with title 17, chapter 4, part 1. Vacancies on the court of criminal appeals shall be filled by the governor in accordance with title 17, chapter 4, part 1.
(b) Their oath of office shall be filed and entered on the minutes of the court in the particular grand division from which the judge has been appointed or elected. The oath shall likewise be filed and entered on the records in the office of the secretary of state at Nashville.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 528,s 19, eff. 1/28/2016.
Acts 1967, ch. 226, § 3; 1969, ch. 330, § 3; 1976, ch. 636, § 2; modified; T.C.A., § 16-443.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-2-514 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 2 / Section 16-2-514
Incumbent clerks and masters
Status: in_force

(a) Nothing in this part shall be construed to limit, terminate or otherwise affect the term or future terms of office of any circuit court clerk, criminal court clerk or clerk and master. All such incumbents shall continue in office until the expiration of their respective terms of office and shall be eligible for reelection and reappointment. (b) Nothing in this part shall be construed to require, permit or authorize the consolidation of the offices of clerk and master, circuit court clerk or criminal court clerk or to place any clerk in a position of dominance over any other clerk. Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 14.
(a) Nothing in this part shall be construed to limit, terminate or otherwise affect the term or future terms of office of any circuit court clerk, criminal court clerk or clerk and master. All such incumbents shall continue in office until the expiration of their respective terms of office and shall be eligible for reelection and reappointment.
(b) Nothing in this part shall be construed to require, permit or authorize the consolidation of the offices of clerk and master, circuit court clerk or criminal court clerk or to place any clerk in a position of dominance over any other clerk.
Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 14.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-5012 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-5012
Promulgation of uniform general sessions court warrant
Status: in_force

(a) (1) The administrative office of the courts (AOC), in consultation with the general sessions judges' conference, court clerks' association, the sheriffs' association and the association of chiefs of police, shall design and promulgate a uniform general sessions court warrant. The purpose of the warrant is to make uniform the information contained on the warrant so that the AOC can compile accurate data on cases in general sessions courts across the state and to make the transfer of the warrant or information contained on the warrant to the AOC as quick and efficient as possible. (2) Upon the warrant being promulgated, it shall be used exclusively in all general sessions courts and other courts when exercising general sessions court jurisdiction; provided, in general sessions courts that use a warrant containing substantially the same information as that contained on the uniform warrant and where warrant information collected by the AOC is collected and maintained electronically by the general sessions court clerk, a nonuniform warrant may be used. (b) The AOC, in consultation with the general sessions judges' conference, Tennessee bar association, court clerks' association, Tennessee trial lawyers' association and the sheriffs' association, shall design and promulgate a uniform general sessions civil warrant. Upon the civil warrant being promulgated, it shall be used exclusively in all general sessions courts and other courts when exercising general sessions court jurisdiction; provided, in general sessions courts that use a civil warrant containing substantially the same information as that contained on the uniform civil warrant and where civil warrant information collected by the AOC is collected and maintained electronically by the general sessions court clerk, a nonuniform civil warrant may be used. Acts 2000, ch. 968, § 1; 2001, ch. 362, § 1.
(a) (1) The administrative office of the courts (AOC), in consultation with the general sessions judges' conference, court clerks' association, the sheriffs' association and the association of chiefs of police, shall design and promulgate a uniform general sessions court warrant. The purpose of the warrant is to make uniform the information contained on the warrant so that the AOC can compile accurate data on cases in general sessions courts across the state and to make the transfer of the warrant or information contained on the warrant to the AOC as quick and efficient as possible. (2) Upon the warrant being promulgated, it shall be used exclusively in all general sessions courts and other courts when exercising general sessions court jurisdiction; provided, in general sessions courts that use a warrant containing substantially the same information as that contained on the uniform warrant and where warrant information collected by the AOC is collected and maintained electronically by the general sessions court clerk, a nonuniform warrant may be used.
(1) The administrative office of the courts (AOC), in consultation with the general sessions judges' conference, court clerks' association, the sheriffs' association and the association of chiefs of police, shall design and promulgate a uniform general sessions court warrant. The purpose of the warrant is to make uniform the information contained on the warrant so that the AOC can compile accurate data on cases in general sessions courts across the state and to make the transfer of the warrant or information contained on the warrant to the AOC as quick and efficient as possible.
(2) Upon the warrant being promulgated, it shall be used exclusively in all general sessions courts and other courts when exercising general sessions court jurisdiction; provided, in general sessions courts that use a warrant containing substantially the same information as that contained on the uniform warrant and where warrant information collected by the AOC is collected and maintained electronically by the general sessions court clerk, a nonuniform warrant may be used.
(b) The AOC, in consultation with the general sessions judges' conference, Tennessee bar association, court clerks' association, Tennessee trial lawyers' association and the sheriffs' association, shall design and promulgate a uniform general sessions civil warrant. Upon the civil warrant being promulgated, it shall be used exclusively in all general sessions courts and other courts when exercising general sessions court jurisdiction; provided, in general sessions courts that use a civil warrant containing substantially the same information as that contained on the uniform civil warrant and where civil warrant information collected by the AOC is collected and maintained electronically by the general sessions court clerk, a nonuniform civil warrant may be used.
Acts 2000, ch. 968, § 1; 2001, ch. 362, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-710 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-710
Commencement of actions - New process when not served
Status: in_force

The suing out of a warrant is the commencement of a civil action within the meaning of this title, whether it is served or not; but if the process is returned unserved, plaintiff, if plaintiff wishes to rely on the original commencement as a bar to the running of a statute of limitations, must either prosecute and continue the action by applying for and obtaining new process from time to time, each new process to be obtained within nine (9) months from return unserved of the previous process, or plaintiff must recommence the action within one (1) year after the return of the initial process not served. Acts 1972, ch. 564, § 1; T.C.A., § 16-1135; Acts 1992, ch. 804, § 1.
The suing out of a warrant is the commencement of a civil action within the meaning of this title, whether it is served or not; but if the process is returned unserved, plaintiff, if plaintiff wishes to rely on the original commencement as a bar to the running of a statute of limitations, must either prosecute and continue the action by applying for and obtaining new process from time to time, each new process to be obtained within nine (9) months from return unserved of the previous process, or plaintiff must recommence the action within one (1) year after the return of the initial process not served.
Acts 1972, ch. 564, § 1; T.C.A., § 16-1135; Acts 1992, ch. 804, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-10-104 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 10 / Section 16-10-104
Restoration of citizenship
Status: in_force

The circuit court has exclusive jurisdiction to hear and determine applications to be restored to citizenship, made by persons who have been rendered infamous by the judgment of any court of this state. Code 1858, § 4228 (deriv. Acts 1851-1852, ch. 30, § 1); Shan., § 6066; Code 1932, § 10321; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-504.
The circuit court has exclusive jurisdiction to hear and determine applications to be restored to citizenship, made by persons who have been rendered infamous by the judgment of any court of this state.
Code 1858, § 4228 (deriv. Acts 1851-1852, ch. 30, § 1); Shan., § 6066; Code 1932, § 10321; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-504.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-20-105 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 20 / Section 16-20-105
Immunity from suit
Status: in_force

(a) Members of the board of directors of a victim-offender mediation center are immune from suit in any civil action based on any proceedings or other official acts performed in good faith as members of the board. (b) Employees and volunteers of a center are immune from suit in any civil action based on any proceedings or other official acts performed in their capacity as employees or volunteers, except in cases of willful or wanton misconduct. (c) A center is immune from suit in any civil action based on any of its proceedings or other official acts performed by its employees, volunteers, or members or its board of directors, except in cases of: (1) Willful or wanton misconduct by its employees or volunteers; and (2) Official acts performed in bad faith by members of its board. Acts 1993, ch. 420, § 5.
(a) Members of the board of directors of a victim-offender mediation center are immune from suit in any civil action based on any proceedings or other official acts performed in good faith as members of the board.
(b) Employees and volunteers of a center are immune from suit in any civil action based on any proceedings or other official acts performed in their capacity as employees or volunteers, except in cases of willful or wanton misconduct.
(c) A center is immune from suit in any civil action based on any of its proceedings or other official acts performed by its employees, volunteers, or members or its board of directors, except in cases of: (1) Willful or wanton misconduct by its employees or volunteers; and (2) Official acts performed in bad faith by members of its board.
(1) Willful or wanton misconduct by its employees or volunteers; and
(2) Official acts performed in bad faith by members of its board.
Acts 1993, ch. 420, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-205 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-205
Supersedeas by judges
Status: in_force

The judges of the supreme court, or any one of them, on a proper case being made out, shall have the authority to grant the process of supersedeas to an execution, returnable to their own court, in the same manner the supreme court, while it is in session, can grant such process, also grant supersedeas to the execution of an interlocutory decree of an inferior court, in the cases provided for in [former] § 27-1-103 [repealed]. Code 1858, §§ 4512, 4513 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 3, § 15; 1851-1852, ch. 181, § 4); Shan., §§ 6347, 6348; Code 1932, §§ 10649, 10650; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-308.
The judges of the supreme court, or any one of them, on a proper case being made out, shall have the authority to grant the process of supersedeas to an execution, returnable to their own court, in the same manner the supreme court, while it is in session, can grant such process, also grant supersedeas to the execution of an interlocutory decree of an inferior court, in the cases provided for in [former] § 27-1-103 [repealed].
Code 1858, §§ 4512, 4513 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 3, § 15; 1851-1852, ch. 181, § 4); Shan., §§ 6347, 6348; Code 1932, §§ 10649, 10650; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-308.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-405 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-405
Relief from firearm disabilities imposed on persons adjudicated as mental defective or judicially committed to mental institution
Status: in_force

(a) A person who is subject to 18 U.S.C. § 922(d)(4) and (g)(4) , § 39-17-1307(i) , or § 39-17-1316(q)(4) because the person has been adjudicated as a mental defective or judicially committed to a mental institution, as defined in § 16-15-303 , may petition the general sessions court that entered the judicial commitment or adjudication order for relief from the firearm disabilities imposed by the adjudication or judicial commitment; provided, that the person may not petition the court until three (3) years from the date of release from commitment or the date of the adjudication order, whichever is later. (b) A copy of the petition for relief shall also be served on the district attorney general of the judicial district in which the original judicial commitment or adjudication occurred. The district attorney general may appear, support, object to, or present evidence relevant to the relief sought by the petitioner. (c) The court shall receive and consider evidence in an open proceeding, including evidence offered by the petitioner, concerning: (1) The circumstances that led to the imposition of the firearms disability under 18 U.S.C. § 922(d)(4) and (g)(4) , § 39-17-1307(i) , or § 39-17-1316(q)(4) ; (2) The petitioner's mental health records; (3) The petitioner's criminal history; (4) The petitioner's reputation; and (5) Changes in the petitioner's condition or circumstances relevant to the relief sought. (d) The court shall grant the petition for relief if it finds by a preponderance of the evidence and enters into the record the following: (1) The petitioner is no longer likely to act in a manner that is dangerous to public safety; and (2) Granting the relief would not be contrary to the public interest. (e) A record of the proceedings, to be provided by the petitioner, shall be made by a certified court reporter or by court-approved electronic means. (f) The petitioner may appeal a final order denying the requested relief, and the review on appeal, if granted, shall be de novo. (g) A person may file a petition for relief under this section no more than once every two (2) years. (h) Relief from a firearm disability granted under this section has no effect on the loss of civil rights, including firearm rights, for any reason other than the particular adjudication as a mental defective or judicial commitment to a mental institution from which relief is granted. (i) When the court issues an order granting a petition of relief under subsection (d), the court clerk shall, as soon as practicable but no later than thirty (30) days after issuance, forward a copy of the order to the Tennessee bureau of investigation (TBI). The TBI, upon receipt of the order, shall: (1) Immediately forward a copy of the order to the department of safety; (2) Update the National Instant Criminal Background Check System database and transmit the corrected records to the federal bureau of investigation; and (3) Remove and destroy all records relating to the petition for relief from any database over which the TBI exercises control. (j) The TBI and the department of safety shall not use or permit the use of the records or information obtained or retained pursuant to this section for any purpose not specified in this section. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 784,s 7, eff. 7/1/2024. Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 459, s 3, eff. 7/1/2015.
(a) A person who is subject to 18 U.S.C. § 922(d)(4) and (g)(4) , § 39-17-1307(i) , or § 39-17-1316(q)(4) because the person has been adjudicated as a mental defective or judicially committed to a mental institution, as defined in § 16-15-303 , may petition the general sessions court that entered the judicial commitment or adjudication order for relief from the firearm disabilities imposed by the adjudication or judicial commitment; provided, that the person may not petition the court until three (3) years from the date of release from commitment or the date of the adjudication order, whichever is later.
(b) A copy of the petition for relief shall also be served on the district attorney general of the judicial district in which the original judicial commitment or adjudication occurred. The district attorney general may appear, support, object to, or present evidence relevant to the relief sought by the petitioner.
(c) The court shall receive and consider evidence in an open proceeding, including evidence offered by the petitioner, concerning: (1) The circumstances that led to the imposition of the firearms disability under 18 U.S.C. § 922(d)(4) and (g)(4) , § 39-17-1307(i) , or § 39-17-1316(q)(4) ; (2) The petitioner's mental health records; (3) The petitioner's criminal history; (4) The petitioner's reputation; and (5) Changes in the petitioner's condition or circumstances relevant to the relief sought.
(1) The circumstances that led to the imposition of the firearms disability under 18 U.S.C. § 922(d)(4) and (g)(4) , § 39-17-1307(i) , or § 39-17-1316(q)(4) ;
(2) The petitioner's mental health records;
(3) The petitioner's criminal history;
(4) The petitioner's reputation; and
(5) Changes in the petitioner's condition or circumstances relevant to the relief sought.
(d) The court shall grant the petition for relief if it finds by a preponderance of the evidence and enters into the record the following: (1) The petitioner is no longer likely to act in a manner that is dangerous to public safety; and (2) Granting the relief would not be contrary to the public interest.
(1) The petitioner is no longer likely to act in a manner that is dangerous to public safety; and
(2) Granting the relief would not be contrary to the public interest.
(e) A record of the proceedings, to be provided by the petitioner, shall be made by a certified court reporter or by court-approved electronic means.
(f) The petitioner may appeal a final order denying the requested relief, and the review on appeal, if granted, shall be de novo.
(g) A person may file a petition for relief under this section no more than once every two (2) years.
(h) Relief from a firearm disability granted under this section has no effect on the loss of civil rights, including firearm rights, for any reason other than the particular adjudication as a mental defective or judicial commitment to a mental institution from which relief is granted.
(i) When the court issues an order granting a petition of relief under subsection (d), the court clerk shall, as soon as practicable but no later than thirty (30) days after issuance, forward a copy of the order to the Tennessee bureau of investigation (TBI). The TBI, upon receipt of the order, shall: (1) Immediately forward a copy of the order to the department of safety; (2) Update the National Instant Criminal Background Check System database and transmit the corrected records to the federal bureau of investigation; and (3) Remove and destroy all records relating to the petition for relief from any database over which the TBI exercises control.
(1) Immediately forward a copy of the order to the department of safety;
(2) Update the National Instant Criminal Background Check System database and transmit the corrected records to the federal bureau of investigation; and
(3) Remove and destroy all records relating to the petition for relief from any database over which the TBI exercises control.
(j) The TBI and the department of safety shall not use or permit the use of the records or information obtained or retained pursuant to this section for any purpose not specified in this section.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 784,s 7, eff. 7/1/2024.
Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 459, s 3, eff. 7/1/2015.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-724 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-724
Cross actions
Status: in_force

Cross actions shall be instituted by cross summons to be filed any day before the day of trial, unless a nonresident defendant enters an appearance and waives publication. In such case, the cross summons shall be filed within two (2) whole days after entry of appearance. In all such actions instituted before courts of general sessions, the case shall not be set for trial until the fourth day after the date of service of original summons, or return date of any publication for a nonresident, or date of entry of appearance of a nonresident. Acts 1939, ch. 180, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 8749.1; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 19-416; Acts 1993, ch. 241, 40; T.C.A., § 19-1-112.
Cross actions shall be instituted by cross summons to be filed any day before the day of trial, unless a nonresident defendant enters an appearance and waives publication. In such case, the cross summons shall be filed within two (2) whole days after entry of appearance. In all such actions instituted before courts of general sessions, the case shall not be set for trial until the fourth day after the date of service of original summons, or return date of any publication for a nonresident, or date of entry of appearance of a nonresident.
Acts 1939, ch. 180, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 8749.1; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 19-416; Acts 1993, ch. 241, 40; T.C.A., § 19-1-112.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-103 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-103
Expenses
Status: in_force

The expenses of the supreme court shall be paid out of the state treasury, upon the warrant of the commissioner of finance and administration. Code 1858, § 106 (deriv. Acts. 1857-1858, ch. 79, § 4); Shan., § 135; mod. Code 1932, § 153; impl. am. Acts 1937, ch. 33, § 24; impl. am. Acts 1939, ch. 11, § 12; C. Supp. 1950, § 153; modified; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 3; impl. am. Acts 1961, ch. 97, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-303.
The expenses of the supreme court shall be paid out of the state treasury, upon the warrant of the commissioner of finance and administration.
Code 1858, § 106 (deriv. Acts. 1857-1858, ch. 79, § 4); Shan., § 135; mod. Code 1932, § 153; impl. am. Acts 1937, ch. 33, § 24; impl. am. Acts 1939, ch. 11, § 12; C. Supp. 1950, § 153; modified; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 3; impl. am. Acts 1961, ch. 97, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-303.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-5-109 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 5 / Section 16-5-109
Clerks and marshals - Appeal fees and court costs
Status: in_force

The clerks and marshals of the supreme court shall also act and be the clerks and marshals of the court of criminal appeals. They shall perform the same duties and functions with respect to the court of criminal appeals and be subject to the same liabilities as may be prescribed by law. The appeal fees and court costs in the court of criminal appeals shall be the same as authorized by law, and neither the clerks nor marshals shall receive any additional compensation for their services as clerks and marshals of the court of criminal appeals. Acts 1967, ch. 226, § 9; T.C.A., § 16-449.
The clerks and marshals of the supreme court shall also act and be the clerks and marshals of the court of criminal appeals. They shall perform the same duties and functions with respect to the court of criminal appeals and be subject to the same liabilities as may be prescribed by law. The appeal fees and court costs in the court of criminal appeals shall be the same as authorized by law, and neither the clerks nor marshals shall receive any additional compensation for their services as clerks and marshals of the court of criminal appeals.
Acts 1967, ch. 226, § 9; T.C.A., § 16-449.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-707 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-707
Plaintiffs - Nonsuits - Dismissals
Status: in_force

The plaintiff shall have the right to take a voluntary nonsuit or to dismiss an action without prejudice at any time before the cause is finally submitted to the court, but not afterwards; provided, that such a dismissal operates as an adjudication upon the merits when filed by a plaintiff who has twice dismissed in any court an action based on or including the same claim. Acts 1972, ch. 564, § 1; T.C.A., § 16-1132.
The plaintiff shall have the right to take a voluntary nonsuit or to dismiss an action without prejudice at any time before the cause is finally submitted to the court, but not afterwards; provided, that such a dismissal operates as an adjudication upon the merits when filed by a plaintiff who has twice dismissed in any court an action based on or including the same claim.
Acts 1972, ch. 564, § 1; T.C.A., § 16-1132.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-501 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-501
Inferior courts - Supervisory control
Status: in_force

In order to ensure the harmonious, efficient and uniform operation of the judicial system of the state, the supreme court is granted and clothed with general supervisory control over all the inferior courts of the state. Acts 1970, ch. 422, § 1; T.C.A., § 16-330.
In order to ensure the harmonious, efficient and uniform operation of the judicial system of the state, the supreme court is granted and clothed with general supervisory control over all the inferior courts of the state.
Acts 1970, ch. 422, § 1; T.C.A., § 16-330.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-11-204 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 11 / Section 16-11-204
Counterpart summons
Status: in_force

Counterpart summons, accompanied by copies of the bill, may be issued to any other counties of the state for defendants not to be found in the county in which the suit is properly brought. Code 1858, § 4306 (deriv. Acts 1789, ch. 57, § 1); Shan., § 6116; Code 1932, § 10384; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-625.
Counterpart summons, accompanied by copies of the bill, may be issued to any other counties of the state for defendants not to be found in the county in which the suit is properly brought.
Code 1858, § 4306 (deriv. Acts 1789, ch. 57, § 1); Shan., § 6116; Code 1932, § 10384; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-625.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-10-207 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 10 / Section 16-10-207
Continuance in absence of judge
Status: in_force

None of the proceedings pending in the circuit or criminal courts shall be discontinued by the nonattendance of the judge, or the judge's death at any time, but, in such cases, all matters depending shall stand continued, if no designated judge appear to serve. Code 1858, § 4223 (deriv. Acts 1794, ch. 1, § 8); Shan., § 6061; mod. Code 1932, § 10316; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-521; Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 21.
None of the proceedings pending in the circuit or criminal courts shall be discontinued by the nonattendance of the judge, or the judge's death at any time, but, in such cases, all matters depending shall stand continued, if no designated judge appear to serve.
Code 1858, § 4223 (deriv. Acts 1794, ch. 1, § 8); Shan., § 6061; mod. Code 1932, § 10316; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-521; Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 21.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-305 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-305
Orders opening and closing terms
Status: in_force

The court has the power, by an order signed by three (3) of its members and forwarded to the clerk at any of the places where its sessions are required to be held, to open any term of the court at such place, without the attendance of the judges of the court, and likewise an order of adjournment or any other order, judgment or decree, signed by three (3) of the judges, may be entered in the absence of the members of the court. The signed orders shall be entered by the clerk on the minutes of the court, and shall have the effect of signed minute orders from the time received and filed by the clerk. The signed orders shall be filed and preserved by the clerk receiving them, until compared with the minutes by the court, and the minutes shall be examined and signed by the court at least once every thirty (30) days. Acts 1915, ch. 95, § 2; Shan., § 135a2; Code 1932, § 155; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-320.
The court has the power, by an order signed by three (3) of its members and forwarded to the clerk at any of the places where its sessions are required to be held, to open any term of the court at such place, without the attendance of the judges of the court, and likewise an order of adjournment or any other order, judgment or decree, signed by three (3) of the judges, may be entered in the absence of the members of the court. The signed orders shall be entered by the clerk on the minutes of the court, and shall have the effect of signed minute orders from the time received and filed by the clerk. The signed orders shall be filed and preserved by the clerk receiving them, until compared with the minutes by the court, and the minutes shall be examined and signed by the court at least once every thirty (30) days.
Acts 1915, ch. 95, § 2; Shan., § 135a2; Code 1932, § 155; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-320.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-905 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-905
Membership
Status: in_force

(a) The council shall consist of the following seven (7) voting members: (1) Four (4) members who shall be appointed to serve for four-year terms as follows: (A) One (1) criminal court judge who shall be appointed by the president of the Tennessee judicial conference, representing a judicial district within which one (1) or more private entities provide probation services; and (B) Three (3) general sessions court judges who shall be appointed by the president of the Tennessee general sessions judges conference, representing counties within which one (1) or more private entities provide probation services; and (2) Three (3) members who shall be appointed by the governor to serve four-year terms as follows: (A) One (1) publicly employed probation officer; (B) One (1) private probation officer or individual with expertise in private probation service by virtue of training or employment; and (C) One (1) county commissioner. (b) Subsequent vacancies on the council shall be filled in the same manner as initially filled. Acts 1998, ch. 1067, § 6; 2007, ch. 149, § 1.
(a) The council shall consist of the following seven (7) voting members: (1) Four (4) members who shall be appointed to serve for four-year terms as follows: (A) One (1) criminal court judge who shall be appointed by the president of the Tennessee judicial conference, representing a judicial district within which one (1) or more private entities provide probation services; and (B) Three (3) general sessions court judges who shall be appointed by the president of the Tennessee general sessions judges conference, representing counties within which one (1) or more private entities provide probation services; and (2) Three (3) members who shall be appointed by the governor to serve four-year terms as follows: (A) One (1) publicly employed probation officer; (B) One (1) private probation officer or individual with expertise in private probation service by virtue of training or employment; and (C) One (1) county commissioner.
(1) Four (4) members who shall be appointed to serve for four-year terms as follows: (A) One (1) criminal court judge who shall be appointed by the president of the Tennessee judicial conference, representing a judicial district within which one (1) or more private entities provide probation services; and (B) Three (3) general sessions court judges who shall be appointed by the president of the Tennessee general sessions judges conference, representing counties within which one (1) or more private entities provide probation services; and
(A) One (1) criminal court judge who shall be appointed by the president of the Tennessee judicial conference, representing a judicial district within which one (1) or more private entities provide probation services; and
(B) Three (3) general sessions court judges who shall be appointed by the president of the Tennessee general sessions judges conference, representing counties within which one (1) or more private entities provide probation services; and
(2) Three (3) members who shall be appointed by the governor to serve four-year terms as follows: (A) One (1) publicly employed probation officer; (B) One (1) private probation officer or individual with expertise in private probation service by virtue of training or employment; and (C) One (1) county commissioner.
(A) One (1) publicly employed probation officer;
(B) One (1) private probation officer or individual with expertise in private probation service by virtue of training or employment; and
(C) One (1) county commissioner.
(b) Subsequent vacancies on the council shall be filled in the same manner as initially filled.
Acts 1998, ch. 1067, § 6; 2007, ch. 149, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-10-204 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 10 / Section 16-10-204
Adjournment during trial
Status: in_force

In no case, after the trial of a cause is commenced, shall the judge adjourn the court until the cause is tried, except in cases where the jury cannot agree, or, from some other cause, a mistrial is ordered. Code 1858, § 4219 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 5, § 4); Shan., § 6057; Code 1932, § 10311; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-518.
In no case, after the trial of a cause is commenced, shall the judge adjourn the court until the cause is tried, except in cases where the jury cannot agree, or, from some other cause, a mistrial is ordered.
Code 1858, § 4219 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 5, § 4); Shan., § 6057; Code 1932, § 10311; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-518.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-2-521 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 2 / Section 16-2-521
Number of criminal investigator positions to which district attorney general entitled pursuant to Section 16-2-506
Status: in_force

The number of criminal investigator positions to which the district attorney general of each judicial district is entitled pursuant to § 16-2-506 or any other law shall be the minimum number of positions authorized in each judicial district. No law shall be construed to prohibit the employment of additional criminal investigators in a judicial district as established by § 16-2-506 , regardless of whether the positions are funded by a state or non-state source, or whether they are specifically enumerated in any other law. Added by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 68,s 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
The number of criminal investigator positions to which the district attorney general of each judicial district is entitled pursuant to § 16-2-506 or any other law shall be the minimum number of positions authorized in each judicial district. No law shall be construed to prohibit the employment of additional criminal investigators in a judicial district as established by § 16-2-506 , regardless of whether the positions are funded by a state or non-state source, or whether they are specifically enumerated in any other law.
Added by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 68,s 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-812 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-812
Providing information regarding case disposition, compliance with reporting information and reports made by AOC regarding auditing compliance and accuracy of required reports
Status: in_force

(a) The administrative office of the courts (AOC) shall be responsible for making available to the Tennessee bureau of investigation in a mutually agreeable form all information the AOC receives from the various courts regarding disposition of cases. (b) The AOC shall be responsible for making available, upon request, to the Tennessee bureau of investigation in a mutually agreeable form all information the AOC receives from the various courts regarding compliance with the reporting requirements of §§ 16-10-213 , 16-11-206 , 16-15-303 , 16-16-120 and reports made by the AOC pursuant to § 16-1-117(a)(6)(B) for purposes of auditing compliance and accuracy of the required reports. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 300,s 2, eff. 7/1/2013. Acts 1999, ch. 495, § 1.
(a) The administrative office of the courts (AOC) shall be responsible for making available to the Tennessee bureau of investigation in a mutually agreeable form all information the AOC receives from the various courts regarding disposition of cases.
(b) The AOC shall be responsible for making available, upon request, to the Tennessee bureau of investigation in a mutually agreeable form all information the AOC receives from the various courts regarding compliance with the reporting requirements of §§ 16-10-213 , 16-11-206 , 16-15-303 , 16-16-120 and reports made by the AOC pursuant to § 16-1-117(a)(6)(B) for purposes of auditing compliance and accuracy of the required reports.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 300,s 2, eff. 7/1/2013.
Acts 1999, ch. 495, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-4-102 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 4 / Section 16-4-102
Election and qualifications of judges - Oaths
Status: in_force

(a) The court of appeals shall be composed of twelve (12) judges, of whom no more than four (4) shall be residents of the same grand division of the state. Immediately preceding appointment, each judge shall be at least thirty (30) years of age, shall have been a resident of the state for at least five (5) consecutive years, shall have been a resident of the grand division from which the judge is appointed for at least one (1) year, and shall be licensed to practice law in this state. For purposes of this subsection (a), "resident" has the same meaning as defined in § 2-1-104 . (b) The oaths of office of the judges of the court of appeals shall be filed and entered on the minutes of the court in the particular grand division from which the judge has been appointed and confirmed or subsequently elected. The oath shall likewise be filed and entered on the records in the office of the secretary of state at Nashville. (c) The judges of the court of appeals shall be elected by the qualified voters of the state in a statewide retention election conducted in accordance with title 17, chapter 4, part 1. Vacancies on the court of appeals shall be filled by the governor in accordance with title 17, chapter 4, part 1. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 528,s 4, eff. 1/28/2016. Acts 1925, ch. 100, § 3; Shan. Supp., § 6325a; 3; mod. Code 1932, § 10607; Acts 1978, ch. 836, § 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-402.
(a) The court of appeals shall be composed of twelve (12) judges, of whom no more than four (4) shall be residents of the same grand division of the state. Immediately preceding appointment, each judge shall be at least thirty (30) years of age, shall have been a resident of the state for at least five (5) consecutive years, shall have been a resident of the grand division from which the judge is appointed for at least one (1) year, and shall be licensed to practice law in this state. For purposes of this subsection (a), "resident" has the same meaning as defined in § 2-1-104 .
(b) The oaths of office of the judges of the court of appeals shall be filed and entered on the minutes of the court in the particular grand division from which the judge has been appointed and confirmed or subsequently elected. The oath shall likewise be filed and entered on the records in the office of the secretary of state at Nashville.
(c) The judges of the court of appeals shall be elected by the qualified voters of the state in a statewide retention election conducted in accordance with title 17, chapter 4, part 1. Vacancies on the court of appeals shall be filled by the governor in accordance with title 17, chapter 4, part 1.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 528,s 4, eff. 1/28/2016.
Acts 1925, ch. 100, § 3; Shan. Supp., § 6325a; 3; mod. Code 1932, § 10607; Acts 1978, ch. 836, § 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-402.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-1-110 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 1 / Section 16-1-110
Implied covenants in sales of land
Status: in_force

In cases where the sale is made at the voluntary instance of parties, the decree or deed of the clerk shall imply a covenant of seisin and warranty of title by the parties whose interest is sold, their heirs and representatives, unless otherwise provided in the face of the decree. Code 1858, § 4105; Shan., § 5917; Code 1932, § 10116; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-110.
In cases where the sale is made at the voluntary instance of parties, the decree or deed of the clerk shall imply a covenant of seisin and warranty of title by the parties whose interest is sold, their heirs and representatives, unless otherwise provided in the face of the decree.
Code 1858, § 4105; Shan., § 5917; Code 1932, § 10116; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-110.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-907 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-907
Staff
Status: in_force

The state entity to which the council is attached for administrative purposes shall provide staff services for the council. Acts 1998, ch. 1067, § 8.
The state entity to which the council is attached for administrative purposes shall provide staff services for the council.
Acts 1998, ch. 1067, § 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-4-110 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 4 / Section 16-4-110
Process
Status: in_force

The court of appeals, and the individual members of the court, are given power to grant writs of error, certiorari and supersedeas in cases within the jurisdiction of the court, such writs to be returnable to the court of appeals in the division in which they arose, and the practice in those cases in the court of appeals shall be the same as is prescribed for the supreme court. Acts 1925, ch. 100, § 11; Shan. Supp., § 6325a11; Code 1932, §10619; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-410.
The court of appeals, and the individual members of the court, are given power to grant writs of error, certiorari and supersedeas in cases within the jurisdiction of the court, such writs to be returnable to the court of appeals in the division in which they arose, and the practice in those cases in the court of appeals shall be the same as is prescribed for the supreme court.
Acts 1925, ch. 100, § 11; Shan. Supp., § 6325a11; Code 1932, §10619; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-410.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-401 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-401
Supreme court rules of practice
Status: in_force

The supreme court may make rules of practice for the better disposal of business before it. Code 1858, § 4504 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 3, § 19); Shan., § 6337; Code 1932, § 10638; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-311.
The supreme court may make rules of practice for the better disposal of business before it.
Code 1858, § 4504 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 3, § 19); Shan., § 6337; Code 1932, § 10638; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-311.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-803 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-803
Issuance after destruction of records
Status: in_force

When the docket book and original papers belonging to the general sessions court are destroyed, and the judge makes oath to that effect, it shall be lawful for the judge, or the judge's successor in office, upon the plaintiff, the plaintiff's agent, attorney, or returning officer filing with the judge an affidavit setting forth the name of the plaintiff or plaintiffs, defendant or defendants, the date and amount of judgment as near as may be, and that the judgment has not been paid, to issue execution as though the original papers and docket book had not been destroyed; and it shall be as good and valid, and have the same force and effect, as other executions issued by general sessions courts. Acts 1859-1860, ch. 54, § 1; Shan., § 4800; Code 1932, § 8931; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 19-604; Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 53; T.C.A., § 19-3-103.
When the docket book and original papers belonging to the general sessions court are destroyed, and the judge makes oath to that effect, it shall be lawful for the judge, or the judge's successor in office, upon the plaintiff, the plaintiff's agent, attorney, or returning officer filing with the judge an affidavit setting forth the name of the plaintiff or plaintiffs, defendant or defendants, the date and amount of judgment as near as may be, and that the judgment has not been paid, to issue execution as though the original papers and docket book had not been destroyed; and it shall be as good and valid, and have the same force and effect, as other executions issued by general sessions courts.
Acts 1859-1860, ch. 54, § 1; Shan., § 4800; Code 1932, § 8931; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 19-604; Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 53; T.C.A., § 19-3-103.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-16-111 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 16 / Section 16-16-111
Powers after confirmation of sale
Status: in_force

(a) When land is sold by any order or decree of the county court, and the sale reported by the clerk and confirmed by the court, the county court shall have the same power and jurisdiction over the cause against the purchaser as the chancery court has by law, notwithstanding the sale has been reported and confirmed. (b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100 (c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties. Acts 1873, ch. 88, § 2; Shan., § 6034; Code 1932, § 10231; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-713; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
(a) When land is sold by any order or decree of the county court, and the sale reported by the clerk and confirmed by the court, the county court shall have the same power and jurisdiction over the cause against the purchaser as the chancery court has by law, notwithstanding the sale has been reported and confirmed.
(b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than
not more than
12,800
12,900
27,100
27,200
43,100
43,200
62,300
62,400
182,000
182,100
(c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties.
Acts 1873, ch. 88, § 2; Shan., § 6034; Code 1932, § 10231; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-713; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-1-109 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 1 / Section 16-1-109
Registration of decree or clerk's deed
Status: in_force

The decree or deed of the clerk, as the case may be, has the same force and effect as a conveyance by the party, and shall be registered. Code 1858, § 4104 (deriv. Acts 1801, ch. 6, § 48; 1837-1838, ch. 176); Shan., § 5916; Code 1932, § 10115; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-109.
The decree or deed of the clerk, as the case may be, has the same force and effect as a conveyance by the party, and shall be registered.
Code 1858, § 4104 (deriv. Acts 1801, ch. 6, § 48; 1837-1838, ch. 176); Shan., § 5916; Code 1932, § 10115; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-109.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-2-502 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 2 / Section 16-2-502
Titles of judges - Jurisdiction
Status: in_force

Each trial court judge shall continue to be officially known and designated as either a chancellor, circuit court judge, criminal court judge, or law and equity court judge, depending upon the position to which the chancellor or judge was elected or appointed prior to June 1, 1984. Any judge or chancellor may exercise by interchange, appointment, or designation the jurisdiction of any trial court other than that to which the judge or chancellor was elected or appointed. Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 2.
Each trial court judge shall continue to be officially known and designated as either a chancellor, circuit court judge, criminal court judge, or law and equity court judge, depending upon the position to which the chancellor or judge was elected or appointed prior to June 1, 1984. Any judge or chancellor may exercise by interchange, appointment, or designation the jurisdiction of any trial court other than that to which the judge or chancellor was elected or appointed.
Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-308 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-308
Special term
Status: in_force

The judges of the supreme court have the power to appoint and hold a special term, upon giving twenty (20) days' notice of the time in some newspaper in the division in which the court is held, for the trial of causes that they deem essential to the public interest. Acts 1868-1869, ch. 28, § 2; Shan., § 6346; Code 1932, § 10648; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-323.
The judges of the supreme court have the power to appoint and hold a special term, upon giving twenty (20) days' notice of the time in some newspaper in the division in which the court is held, for the trial of causes that they deem essential to the public interest.
Acts 1868-1869, ch. 28, § 2; Shan., § 6346; Code 1932, § 10648; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-323.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-207 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-207
Correction of apparent mistakes
Status: in_force

The court may, at any time after final judgment, correct mistakes apparent on the face of the record, as provided in [former] § 20-11-106 [repealed]. Code 1858, § 4502 (deriv. Acts 1855-1856, ch. 70, § 2); Shan., § 6335; Code 1932, § 10636; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-310.
The court may, at any time after final judgment, correct mistakes apparent on the face of the record, as provided in [former] § 20-11-106 [repealed].
Code 1858, § 4502 (deriv. Acts 1855-1856, ch. 70, § 2); Shan., § 6335; Code 1932, § 10636; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-310.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-723 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-723
Proceedings after attachment
Status: in_force

The proceedings after the issuance and service of attachment and on the trial and enforcement of the plaintiff's claim, are the same as if the suit had been commenced in the ordinary way, the rights acquired by the attachment being governed by the provisions of this code regulating attachments. Code 1858, § 4175; Shan., § 5987; Code 1932, § 10188; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 19-407; Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 34; T.C.A., § 19-1-106.
The proceedings after the issuance and service of attachment and on the trial and enforcement of the plaintiff's claim, are the same as if the suit had been commenced in the ordinary way, the rights acquired by the attachment being governed by the provisions of this code regulating attachments.
Code 1858, § 4175; Shan., § 5987; Code 1932, § 10188; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 19-407; Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 34; T.C.A., § 19-1-106.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-911 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-911
Probation contracts with private entities
Status: in_force

No public officer or employee of a governing authority who is involved in making or administering a contract with a private entity that is governed by the council and that provides probation services may derive any direct benefit from the contract. Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 827,s 1, eff. 4/29/2014.
No public officer or employee of a governing authority who is involved in making or administering a contract with a private entity that is governed by the council and that provides probation services may derive any direct benefit from the contract.
Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 827,s 1, eff. 4/29/2014.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-22-113 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 22 / Section 16-22-113
Treatment program participants
Status: in_force

Each participant in a drug court treatment program shall: (1) Not be a violent offender as defined in § 16-22-103 ; (2) Be substance abusing or chemically dependent, or both; and (3) Be willing to participate in a treatment program. Acts 2003 , ch. 335, §1; 2007 , ch. 375, § 7.
Each participant in a drug court treatment program shall:
(1) Not be a violent offender as defined in § 16-22-103 ;
(2) Be substance abusing or chemically dependent, or both; and
(3) Be willing to participate in a treatment program.
Acts 2003 , ch. 335, §1; 2007 , ch. 375, § 7.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-21-110 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 21 / Section 16-21-110
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 420,s 22, eff. 5/21/2019. Acts 1943, ch. 130, §§ 5, 8; 1945, 89, § 3; C. Supp. 1950, §§ 738.6, 738.9 (Williams, §§ 738.9, 738.12); modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-910.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 420,s 22, eff. 5/21/2019.
Acts 1943, ch. 130, §§ 5, 8; 1945, 89, § 3; C. Supp. 1950, §§ 738.6, 738.9 (Williams, §§ 738.9, 738.12); modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-910.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-403 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-403
Conservator of peace - Oaths
Status: in_force

Every general sessions court judge is a conservator of the peace in the county in which the judge serves, and has authority to administer oaths when required by law, unless the power is expressly entrusted to some other officer, and to exercise such other powers as are conferred upon the general sessions court judge by law. Code 1858, § 343; Shan., § 432; Code 1932, § 679; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 19-201.
Every general sessions court judge is a conservator of the peace in the county in which the judge serves, and has authority to administer oaths when required by law, unless the power is expressly entrusted to some other officer, and to exercise such other powers as are conferred upon the general sessions court judge by law.
Code 1858, § 343; Shan., § 432; Code 1932, § 679; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 19-201.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-16-105 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 16 / Section 16-16-105
Court always open
Status: in_force

(a) The county court to be held by the county judge shall be deemed always open for the transaction of any business and the exercise of any jurisdiction conferred upon the county judge or upon the court held by the county judge. (b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100 (c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties. Acts 1911, ch. 3, § 1; Shan., § 6006a1; mod. Code 1932, § 10205; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-707; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
(a) The county court to be held by the county judge shall be deemed always open for the transaction of any business and the exercise of any jurisdiction conferred upon the county judge or upon the court held by the county judge.
(b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than
not more than
12,800
12,900
27,100
27,200
43,100
43,200
62,300
62,400
182,000
182,100
(c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties.
Acts 1911, ch. 3, § 1; Shan., § 6006a1; mod. Code 1932, § 10205; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-707; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-1-116 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 1 / Section 16-1-116
Transfer of actions or appeals
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other law or rule of court to the contrary, when an original civil action, an appeal from the judgment of a court of general sessions, or a petition for review of a final decision in a contested case under the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, is filed in a state or county court of record or a general sessions court and such court determines that it lacks jurisdiction, the court shall, if it is in the interest of justice, transfer the action or appeal to any other such court in which the action or appeal could have been brought at the time it was originally filed. Upon such a transfer, the action or appeal shall proceed as if it had been originally filed in the court to which it is transferred on the date upon which it was actually filed in the court from which it was transferred. Acts 2000, ch. 794, § 1.
Notwithstanding any other law or rule of court to the contrary, when an original civil action, an appeal from the judgment of a court of general sessions, or a petition for review of a final decision in a contested case under the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, is filed in a state or county court of record or a general sessions court and such court determines that it lacks jurisdiction, the court shall, if it is in the interest of justice, transfer the action or appeal to any other such court in which the action or appeal could have been brought at the time it was originally filed. Upon such a transfer, the action or appeal shall proceed as if it had been originally filed in the court to which it is transferred on the date upon which it was actually filed in the court from which it was transferred.
Acts 2000, ch. 794, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-19-103 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 19 / Section 16-19-103
Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter: (1) "Nonadversarial approach" means that the district attorney general and the defense attorney work together for the benefit of the mental health treatment program participants and the mental health treatment court program; (2) "Severe and persistent mental illness" means a diagnosis of one (1) or more qualifying mental illnesses or disorders, which shall be determined by the department of mental health and substance abuse services; (3) "Sexual offender" means any person who has been convicted of or charged with a sexual offense or violent sexual offense as those terms are defined in § 40-39-202 ; and (4) "Violent offender" means a person who has been convicted of or charged with an offense, during the course of which there occurred the death of or serious bodily injury to any person. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1071, s 1, eff. 5/25/2022.
As used in this chapter:
(1) "Nonadversarial approach" means that the district attorney general and the defense attorney work together for the benefit of the mental health treatment program participants and the mental health treatment court program;
(2) "Severe and persistent mental illness" means a diagnosis of one (1) or more qualifying mental illnesses or disorders, which shall be determined by the department of mental health and substance abuse services;
(3) "Sexual offender" means any person who has been convicted of or charged with a sexual offense or violent sexual offense as those terms are defined in § 40-39-202 ; and
(4) "Violent offender" means a person who has been convicted of or charged with an offense, during the course of which there occurred the death of or serious bodily injury to any person.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1071, s 1, eff. 5/25/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-801 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-801
General sessions courts empowered to issue execution
Status: in_force

The general sessions court that renders a judgment may issue execution on the judgment. Code 1858, § 3070 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 17, §§ 14, 16); Shan., § 4797; Code 1932, § 8928; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 19-601; Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 53; T.C.A., § 19-3-101.
The general sessions court that renders a judgment may issue execution on the judgment.
Code 1858, § 3070 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 17, §§ 14, 16); Shan., § 4797; Code 1932, § 8928; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, §§ 2, 3; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 19-601; Acts 1993, ch. 241, § 53; T.C.A., § 19-3-101.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-904 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-904
Attachment to appropriate state entity
Status: in_force

The commissioner of finance and administration shall attach the council to the appropriate state entity for administrative purposes. Acts 1998, ch. 1067, § 5.
The commissioner of finance and administration shall attach the council to the appropriate state entity for administrative purposes.
Acts 1998, ch. 1067, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-21-105 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 21 / Section 16-21-105
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 420,s 17, eff. 5/21/2019. Acts 1943, ch. 130, § 3; C. Supp. 1950, § 738.4 (Williams, § 738.7); T.C.A., § 16-905; Acts 1989, ch. 154, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 65, § 3.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 420,s 17, eff. 5/21/2019.
Acts 1943, ch. 130, § 3; C. Supp. 1950, § 738.4 (Williams, § 738.7); T.C.A., § 16-905; Acts 1989, ch. 154, §§ 1, 2; 1993, ch. 65, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-21-103 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 21 / Section 16-21-103
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 420,s 15, eff. 5/21/2019. Acts 1943, ch. 130, § 2a, as added by Acts 1947, ch. 47, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 738.3 (Williams, § 738.6a); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-903.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 420,s 15, eff. 5/21/2019.
Acts 1943, ch. 130, § 2a, as added by Acts 1947, ch. 47, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 738.3 (Williams, § 738.6a); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-903.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-2-507 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 2 / Section 16-2-507
Incumbent judges - Cooperation between judges
Status: in_force

(a) All incumbent trial court judges shall hold office in and serve the judicial district of which they have been designated by § 16-2-506 . (b) It is the affirmative duty of every trial court judge to fully cooperate with the presiding judge and the other judges in the district. Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 7.
(a) All incumbent trial court judges shall hold office in and serve the judicial district of which they have been designated by § 16-2-506 .
(b) It is the affirmative duty of every trial court judge to fully cooperate with the presiding judge and the other judges in the district.
Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 7.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-16-110 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 16 / Section 16-16-110
Powers in sale of property
Status: in_force

(a) The court may, pursuant to § 16-16-109 , appoint commissioners to make sale of real or personal property, taking bond and security for the faithful performance of duty, when deemed necessary; may revise, set aside, or confirm the proceedings of the commissioners, as such other courts; render judgments or decrees upon notes and obligations taken in the progress of a cause, and relieve, upon petition, any purchaser or party, or person interested, by opening biddings, setting aside sales, or otherwise, like the circuit or chancery court in similar cases. (b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100 (c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties. Code 1858, § 4205 (deriv. Acts 1849-1850, ch. 185, §§ 1, 2); Shan., § 6032; Code 1932, § 10230; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-712; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
(a) The court may, pursuant to § 16-16-109 , appoint commissioners to make sale of real or personal property, taking bond and security for the faithful performance of duty, when deemed necessary; may revise, set aside, or confirm the proceedings of the commissioners, as such other courts; render judgments or decrees upon notes and obligations taken in the progress of a cause, and relieve, upon petition, any purchaser or party, or person interested, by opening biddings, setting aside sales, or otherwise, like the circuit or chancery court in similar cases.
(b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than
not more than
12,800
12,900
27,100
27,200
43,100
43,200
62,300
62,400
182,000
182,100
(c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties.
Code 1858, § 4205 (deriv. Acts 1849-1850, ch. 185, §§ 1, 2); Shan., § 6032; Code 1932, § 10230; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-712; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-16-108 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 16 / Section 16-16-108
Distribution, partition, and sale of realty
Status: in_force

(a) The county court shall have concurrent jurisdiction with the chancery and circuit courts to sell real estate of decedents and for distribution or partition. The mode of procedure in those cases in the county courts shall conform in every respect to the rules and regulations laid down for the conduct of similar causes in the chancery and circuit courts. (b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100 (c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties. Acts 1873, ch. 64, §§ 1, 2; Shan., § 6028; Code 1932, § 10226; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-710; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
(a) The county court shall have concurrent jurisdiction with the chancery and circuit courts to sell real estate of decedents and for distribution or partition. The mode of procedure in those cases in the county courts shall conform in every respect to the rules and regulations laid down for the conduct of similar causes in the chancery and circuit courts.
(b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than
not more than
12,800
12,900
27,100
27,200
43,100
43,200
62,300
62,400
182,000
182,100
(c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties.
Acts 1873, ch. 64, §§ 1, 2; Shan., § 6028; Code 1932, § 10226; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-710; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-11-110 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 11 / Section 16-11-110
Divorce proceedings - Adoptions
Status: in_force

The chancery court has jurisdiction, concurrent with the circuit court, of all proceedings for divorce and for the adoption of children. Code 1858, § 4301 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 20, § 1); Shan., § 6111; Code 1932, § 10379; Acts 1951, ch. 202, § 2 (Williams, § 9572.16); modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-612.
The chancery court has jurisdiction, concurrent with the circuit court, of all proceedings for divorce and for the adoption of children.
Code 1858, § 4301 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 20, § 1); Shan., § 6111; Code 1932, § 10379; Acts 1951, ch. 202, § 2 (Williams, § 9572.16); modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-612.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-17-104 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 17 / Section 16-17-104
Increase of divisions - Powers
Status: in_force

In those home rule municipalities that have city courts and whose divisions have been increased by the legislative body, the new divisions have the same power as other divisions and are under the same direction and control as provided in this part and the municipality's charter. Acts 1972, ch. 778, § 4; T.C.A., §16-1204; Acts 2009 , ch. 128, § 3.
In those home rule municipalities that have city courts and whose divisions have been increased by the legislative body, the new divisions have the same power as other divisions and are under the same direction and control as provided in this part and the municipality's charter.
Acts 1972, ch. 778, § 4; T.C.A., §16-1204; Acts 2009 , ch. 128, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-16-104 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 16 / Section 16-16-104
Terms of court
Status: in_force

(a) The county court to be held by the county judge shall have its regular sessions on the first Monday of each month; and the court shall sit from day to day, so long as the business of the court may require. (b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100 (c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties. Code 1858, § 4198 (deriv. Acts 1855-1856, ch. 253, § 5); Shan., § 6023; Code 1932, § 10222; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 7, 36; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-706; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
(a) The county court to be held by the county judge shall have its regular sessions on the first Monday of each month; and the court shall sit from day to day, so long as the business of the court may require.
(b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than
not more than
12,800
12,900
27,100
27,200
43,100
43,200
62,300
62,400
182,000
182,100
(c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties.
Code 1858, § 4198 (deriv. Acts 1855-1856, ch. 253, § 5); Shan., § 6023; Code 1932, § 10222; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 7, 36; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-706; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-209 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-209
Appeal during term
Status: in_force

An appeal, appeal in the nature of a writ of error, or writ of error may be prosecuted from any final judgment or decree, rendered in an inferior court during the term of the supreme court, the record being filed in the court, and the opposite party, or the opposite party's counsel, notified five (5) days before the hearing. Code 1858, § 4515 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 3, § 19); Shan., § 6350; Code 1932, § 10652; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-313.
An appeal, appeal in the nature of a writ of error, or writ of error may be prosecuted from any final judgment or decree, rendered in an inferior court during the term of the supreme court, the record being filed in the court, and the opposite party, or the opposite party's counsel, notified five (5) days before the hearing.
Code 1858, § 4515 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 3, § 19); Shan., § 6350; Code 1932, § 10652; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-313.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-211 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-211
Order of counties in districts
Status: in_force

The supreme court, except as otherwise provided, shall take up and try the cases from the different counties in a judicial district in the order in which the counties are named in the section of chapter 2 of this title that prescribes the times of holding court in the judicial district; and when the business of a county is taken up, it shall be argued before passing to the business of another county, unless postponed for satisfactory reasons to the court. Acts 1868-1869, ch. 28, § 4; Shan., § 6339; mod. Code 1932, § 10641; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-315.
The supreme court, except as otherwise provided, shall take up and try the cases from the different counties in a judicial district in the order in which the counties are named in the section of chapter 2 of this title that prescribes the times of holding court in the judicial district; and when the business of a county is taken up, it shall be argued before passing to the business of another county, unless postponed for satisfactory reasons to the court.
Acts 1868-1869, ch. 28, § 4; Shan., § 6339; mod. Code 1932, § 10641; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-315.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-102 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-102
Courtroom - Supplies and equipment - Expenses
Status: in_force

(a) Each county shall provide a courtroom for the general sessions court in the county seat and all necessary supplies and equipment for the maintenance of the court and shall defray the expenses thereof from the general fund of the county. (b) In counties having a population of not less than thirteen thousand two hundred seventy-five (13,275) nor more than thirteen thousand two hundred ninety-five (13,295) and not less than fourteen thousand six hundred fifty (14,650) nor more than fourteen thousand six hundred seventy (14,670), according to the federal census of 1960 and every subsequent federal census, the general sessions judges shall be entitled to secretarial and office expenses in the amount of six hundred dollars ($600) per annum, payable monthly from the general funds of such counties. (c) In counties having a population of not less than twenty-four thousand two hundred twenty (24,220) nor more than twenty-four thousand two hundred thirty-five (24,235) or not less than twelve thousand five hundred (12,500) nor more than twelve thousand six hundred (12,600), according to the 1960 federal census or any subsequent federal census, the general sessions judge shall be entitled to an allowance of one thousand dollars ($1,000) per annum, for secretarial and office expenses and the same shall be paid in equal monthly installments from the general fund of the counties. (d) In counties of this state having a population of not less than twenty-four thousand five hundred seventy (24,570) nor more than twenty-four thousand five hundred eighty (24,580), according to the 1960 federal census or any subsequent federal census, the general sessions judge shall be entitled to an allowance of one thousand eight hundred dollars ($1,800) per annum for secretarial and office expenses, to be paid in equal monthly installments from the general fund of the county. Acts 1959, ch. 109, § 1; 1961, ch. 146, § 1; 1961, ch. 279, § 1; 1965, ch. 366, § 1; 1968, ch. 430, § 1; T.C.A., § 16-1102.
(a) Each county shall provide a courtroom for the general sessions court in the county seat and all necessary supplies and equipment for the maintenance of the court and shall defray the expenses thereof from the general fund of the county.
(b) In counties having a population of not less than thirteen thousand two hundred seventy-five (13,275) nor more than thirteen thousand two hundred ninety-five (13,295) and not less than fourteen thousand six hundred fifty (14,650) nor more than fourteen thousand six hundred seventy (14,670), according to the federal census of 1960 and every subsequent federal census, the general sessions judges shall be entitled to secretarial and office expenses in the amount of six hundred dollars ($600) per annum, payable monthly from the general funds of such counties.
(c) In counties having a population of not less than twenty-four thousand two hundred twenty (24,220) nor more than twenty-four thousand two hundred thirty-five (24,235) or not less than twelve thousand five hundred (12,500) nor more than twelve thousand six hundred (12,600), according to the 1960 federal census or any subsequent federal census, the general sessions judge shall be entitled to an allowance of one thousand dollars ($1,000) per annum, for secretarial and office expenses and the same shall be paid in equal monthly installments from the general fund of the counties.
(d) In counties of this state having a population of not less than twenty-four thousand five hundred seventy (24,570) nor more than twenty-four thousand five hundred eighty (24,580), according to the 1960 federal census or any subsequent federal census, the general sessions judge shall be entitled to an allowance of one thousand eight hundred dollars ($1,800) per annum for secretarial and office expenses, to be paid in equal monthly installments from the general fund of the county.
Acts 1959, ch. 109, § 1; 1961, ch. 146, § 1; 1961, ch. 279, § 1; 1965, ch. 366, § 1; 1968, ch. 430, § 1; T.C.A., § 16-1102.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-5013 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-5013
Designation of division of general sessions court as mental health court
Status: in_force

(a) The county commission of any county having a population of eight hundred thousand (800,000) or more, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, may designate a division of the county's general sessions court as the mental health court. The mental health court shall be staffed using existing general sessions court staff members. (b) The mental health court is granted the power to hear cases involving petitions filed under the mental health law, compiled in title 33, and mental commitments. (c) The mental health court shall strive to identify and provide treatment and services to persons who are mentally ill, developmentally disabled or dually diagnosed, or persons who have a history of alcohol or drug abuse. (d) The mental health court shall also strive to create a single point of contact for persons governed by this section and shall seek to provide case management, forensic alternative community treatment and community-based services. Acts 2004, ch. 703, § 1.
(a) The county commission of any county having a population of eight hundred thousand (800,000) or more, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, may designate a division of the county's general sessions court as the mental health court. The mental health court shall be staffed using existing general sessions court staff members.
(b) The mental health court is granted the power to hear cases involving petitions filed under the mental health law, compiled in title 33, and mental commitments.
(c) The mental health court shall strive to identify and provide treatment and services to persons who are mentally ill, developmentally disabled or dually diagnosed, or persons who have a history of alcohol or drug abuse.
(d) The mental health court shall also strive to create a single point of contact for persons governed by this section and shall seek to provide case management, forensic alternative community treatment and community-based services.
Acts 2004, ch. 703, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-19-105 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 19 / Section 16-19-105
Administration by the department of mental health and substance abuse services
Status: in_force

(a) The department of mental health and substance abuse services shall administer mental health treatment court programs by: (1) Defining, developing, and gathering outcome measures for mental health treatment court programs relating to the purposes and goals in § 16-19-102 ; (2) Collecting, reporting, and disseminating mental health treatment court program data; (3) Supporting a state mental health treatment mentor program; (4) Sponsoring and coordinating mental health treatment court program training; (5) Administering and evaluating mental health treatment court programs; and (6) Developing standards of operation for mental health treatment court programs to ensure that funds are allocated to meet the greatest need. (b) In accomplishing the tasks listed in subsection (a), the department shall consult and collaborate with the Tennessee district attorney general's conference and the public defenders conference. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1071, s 1, eff. 5/25/2022.
(a) The department of mental health and substance abuse services shall administer mental health treatment court programs by: (1) Defining, developing, and gathering outcome measures for mental health treatment court programs relating to the purposes and goals in § 16-19-102 ; (2) Collecting, reporting, and disseminating mental health treatment court program data; (3) Supporting a state mental health treatment mentor program; (4) Sponsoring and coordinating mental health treatment court program training; (5) Administering and evaluating mental health treatment court programs; and (6) Developing standards of operation for mental health treatment court programs to ensure that funds are allocated to meet the greatest need.
(1) Defining, developing, and gathering outcome measures for mental health treatment court programs relating to the purposes and goals in § 16-19-102 ;
(2) Collecting, reporting, and disseminating mental health treatment court program data;
(3) Supporting a state mental health treatment mentor program;
(4) Sponsoring and coordinating mental health treatment court program training;
(5) Administering and evaluating mental health treatment court programs; and
(6) Developing standards of operation for mental health treatment court programs to ensure that funds are allocated to meet the greatest need.
(b) In accomplishing the tasks listed in subsection (a), the department shall consult and collaborate with the Tennessee district attorney general's conference and the public defenders conference.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1071, s 1, eff. 5/25/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-16-109 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 16 / Section 16-16-109
Powers necessary to jurisdiction
Status: in_force

(a) The county court is expressly vested, over all subjects enumerated in §§ 16-16-107 and 16-16-108 , with all the power and authority necessary and proper to the exercise of the jurisdiction conferred. (b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100 (c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties. Code 1858, § 4203; Shan., § 6030; Code 1932, § 10228; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-711; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
(a) The county court is expressly vested, over all subjects enumerated in §§ 16-16-107 and 16-16-108 , with all the power and authority necessary and proper to the exercise of the jurisdiction conferred.
(b) Subsection (a) shall only apply in counties having a population, according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census, of: not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than not more than 12,800 12,900 27,100 27,200 43,100 43,200 62,300 62,400 182,000 182,100
not less than
not more than
12,800
12,900
27,100
27,200
43,100
43,200
62,300
62,400
182,000
182,100
(c) In counties having a population of not less than thirty-nine thousand fifty (39,050) nor more than thirty-nine thousand one hundred fifty (39,150), according to the 2000 federal census of population or any subsequent federal census, the circuit court clerk, who also serves as the general sessions court clerk, shall serve as the clerk of the court with probate jurisdiction in any such counties.
Code 1858, § 4203; Shan., § 6030; Code 1932, § 10228; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-711; Acts 2003, ch. 310, §§ 1, 6-10; 2005, ch. 24, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-2-515 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 2 / Section 16-2-515
References to judicial circuits or divisions deemed to judicial districts
Status: in_force

All references in Tennessee Code Annotated to "judicial circuits" or "chancery divisions" shall be deemed references to the judicial districts created by this part. Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 25.
All references in Tennessee Code Annotated to "judicial circuits" or "chancery divisions" shall be deemed references to the judicial districts created by this part.
Acts 1984, ch. 931, § 25.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-301 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-301
Clerk of court
Status: in_force

(a) The clerk of the circuit court of the county shall act as clerk of the court of general sessions, and when acting as clerk of the general sessions court shall be designated as the clerk of the court of general sessions of that county. (b) In addition, the clerk of any special court now established or hereafter established, having exactly the same jurisdiction as and no more jurisdiction than the circuit court within any part and for a portion of a particular county, shall also serve as clerk of the court of general sessions within the venue of the special court. (c) In any county in which the office of a separate clerk of a court of general sessions is created by private act, the clerk shall continue to serve as the clerk of the court of general sessions of the county in accordance with the private act. (d) Upon written application to the circuit court judge, the clerk of the court of general sessions may be authorized and empowered to appoint deputies for the sole purpose of issuing process. Upon consideration of the application, the circuit court judge shall note the circuit court judge's approval or disapproval by a formal order upon the minutes of the court, and the order shall state the reasons why the judge deems this action to be in the public interest. Acts 1959, ch. 109, § 16; 1961, ch. 329, § 1; 1963, ch. 345, § 1; T.C.A., § 16-1116.
(a) The clerk of the circuit court of the county shall act as clerk of the court of general sessions, and when acting as clerk of the general sessions court shall be designated as the clerk of the court of general sessions of that county.
(b) In addition, the clerk of any special court now established or hereafter established, having exactly the same jurisdiction as and no more jurisdiction than the circuit court within any part and for a portion of a particular county, shall also serve as clerk of the court of general sessions within the venue of the special court.
(c) In any county in which the office of a separate clerk of a court of general sessions is created by private act, the clerk shall continue to serve as the clerk of the court of general sessions of the county in accordance with the private act.
(d) Upon written application to the circuit court judge, the clerk of the court of general sessions may be authorized and empowered to appoint deputies for the sole purpose of issuing process. Upon consideration of the application, the circuit court judge shall note the circuit court judge's approval or disapproval by a formal order upon the minutes of the court, and the order shall state the reasons why the judge deems this action to be in the public interest.
Acts 1959, ch. 109, § 16; 1961, ch. 329, § 1; 1963, ch. 345, § 1; T.C.A., § 16-1116.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-10-109 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 10 / Section 16-10-109
Partition and sale of property
Status: in_force

The circuit court has concurrent jurisdiction with the chancery and county courts to make partition and distribution; and, for this purpose, to sell property, real or personal, if necessary, or manifestly to the interest of the parties; and to sell land to pay debts of decedents where the personal assets are insufficient. Code 1858, § 4233 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 19, § 4; 1835-1836, ch. 20, § 1); Shan., § 6071; Code 1932, § 10326; Acts 1976, ch. 529, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-509.
The circuit court has concurrent jurisdiction with the chancery and county courts to make partition and distribution; and, for this purpose, to sell property, real or personal, if necessary, or manifestly to the interest of the parties; and to sell land to pay debts of decedents where the personal assets are insufficient.
Code 1858, § 4233 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 19, § 4; 1835-1836, ch. 20, § 1); Shan., § 6071; Code 1932, § 10326; Acts 1976, ch. 529, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-509.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-10-113 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 10 / Section 16-10-113
Jurisdiction of contract enforcement
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, contracts for goods or services between individuals, partnerships, associations, corporations, governmental entities or limited liability companies are enforceable in either circuit or chancery court in the county where: (1) The defendant may be found; (2) The contract was executed; (3) The goods were provided or were to be provided; or (4) Services were rendered or were to be rendered. Acts 2007, ch. 351, § 1.
Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, contracts for goods or services between individuals, partnerships, associations, corporations, governmental entities or limited liability companies are enforceable in either circuit or chancery court in the county where:
(1) The defendant may be found;
(2) The contract was executed;
(3) The goods were provided or were to be provided; or
(4) Services were rendered or were to be rendered.
Acts 2007, ch. 351, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-19-104 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 19 / Section 16-19-104
No right of treatment conferred - Operation
Status: in_force

(a) This chapter creates mental health treatment court programs within the state that follows the general principles referenced in § 16-19-107 and that is approved by the department of mental health and substance abuse and established by the judge of a court in this state exercising criminal jurisdiction. (b) This chapter does not confer a right or an expectation of a right to treatment for an offender within the criminal justice system. (c) A recovery court program, including but not limited to, a veterans treatment court program or a drug court treatment program, shall operate separate and apart from a mental health treatment court program. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1071, s 1, eff. 5/25/2022.
(a) This chapter creates mental health treatment court programs within the state that follows the general principles referenced in § 16-19-107 and that is approved by the department of mental health and substance abuse and established by the judge of a court in this state exercising criminal jurisdiction.
(b) This chapter does not confer a right or an expectation of a right to treatment for an offender within the criminal justice system.
(c) A recovery court program, including but not limited to, a veterans treatment court program or a drug court treatment program, shall operate separate and apart from a mental health treatment court program.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1071, s 1, eff. 5/25/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-20-103 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 20 / Section 16-20-103
Confidential and privileged documents and communications
Status: in_force

(a) All memoranda, work notes or products, or case files of centers established under this chapter are confidential and privileged and are not subject to disclosure in any judicial or administrative proceeding unless the court or administrative tribunal determines that the materials were submitted by a participant to the center for the purpose of avoiding discovery of the material in a subsequent proceeding. Any communication relating to the subject matter of the resolution made during the resolution process by any participant, mediator, or any other person is a privileged communication and is not subject to disclosure in any judicial or administrative proceeding unless all parties to the communication waive the privilege. (b) The privilege and limitation on evidentiary use described in subsection (a) does not apply to any communication of a threat that injury or damage may be inflicted on any person or on the property of a party to the dispute, to the extent the communication may be relevant evidence in a criminal matter. Such communications shall not be construed to be public records pursuant to title 10, chapter 7. Acts 1993, ch. 420, § 3.
(a) All memoranda, work notes or products, or case files of centers established under this chapter are confidential and privileged and are not subject to disclosure in any judicial or administrative proceeding unless the court or administrative tribunal determines that the materials were submitted by a participant to the center for the purpose of avoiding discovery of the material in a subsequent proceeding. Any communication relating to the subject matter of the resolution made during the resolution process by any participant, mediator, or any other person is a privileged communication and is not subject to disclosure in any judicial or administrative proceeding unless all parties to the communication waive the privilege.
(b) The privilege and limitation on evidentiary use described in subsection (a) does not apply to any communication of a threat that injury or damage may be inflicted on any person or on the property of a party to the dispute, to the extent the communication may be relevant evidence in a criminal matter. Such communications shall not be construed to be public records pursuant to title 10, chapter 7.
Acts 1993, ch. 420, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-10-107 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 10 / Section 16-10-107
Change of name - Legitimation
Status: in_force

The circuit court and the chancery court have concurrent jurisdiction to change and alter the names of persons and to legitimate children. Code 1858, § 4231 (deriv. Acts 1805, ch. 2); Shan., § 6069; Code 1932, § 10324; impl. am. Acts 1951, ch. 202; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-507; Acts 1984, ch. 682, § 1.
The circuit court and the chancery court have concurrent jurisdiction to change and alter the names of persons and to legitimate children.
Code 1858, § 4231 (deriv. Acts 1805, ch. 2); Shan., § 6069; Code 1932, § 10324; impl. am. Acts 1951, ch. 202; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-507; Acts 1984, ch. 682, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-4-114 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 4 / Section 16-4-114
Transfers between grand divisions
Status: in_force

(a) Any case on the docket of the court of appeals, in any grand division, in which any member of the court residing in that grand division is disqualified to participate, upon order of two (2) of the judges residing in the grand division where the case is pending, may be transferred to, tried and determined in the court of appeals sitting in another grand division where no disqualification of judges exists; and a true copy of the order, duly certified by the clerk, together with a certified bill of the costs accrued on the appeal, shall be transmitted with the transcript of the record to the court of appeals in the grand division to which the case is transferred. (b) The court of appeals is empowered to make all necessary rules to carry out the purpose of this section and to expedite the hearing of such cases. Acts 1929, ch. 43, §§ 1, 2; Code 1932, §§10625, 10626; Acts 1961, ch. 281, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-414.
(a) Any case on the docket of the court of appeals, in any grand division, in which any member of the court residing in that grand division is disqualified to participate, upon order of two (2) of the judges residing in the grand division where the case is pending, may be transferred to, tried and determined in the court of appeals sitting in another grand division where no disqualification of judges exists; and a true copy of the order, duly certified by the clerk, together with a certified bill of the costs accrued on the appeal, shall be transmitted with the transcript of the record to the court of appeals in the grand division to which the case is transferred.
(b) The court of appeals is empowered to make all necessary rules to carry out the purpose of this section and to expedite the hearing of such cases.
Acts 1929, ch. 43, §§ 1, 2; Code 1932, §§10625, 10626; Acts 1961, ch. 281, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-414.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-301 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-301
Duration of terms
Status: in_force

It is the duty of the judges of the supreme court to hold its terms at the different places as designated by law, until all the causes are determined or otherwise disposed of, or until it becomes necessary to adjourn to hold court at another point. Code 1858, § 4510 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 3, § 6); Shan., § 6344; Code 1932, § 10646; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-316.
It is the duty of the judges of the supreme court to hold its terms at the different places as designated by law, until all the causes are determined or otherwise disposed of, or until it becomes necessary to adjourn to hold court at another point.
Code 1858, § 4510 (deriv. Acts 1835-1836, ch. 3, § 6); Shan., § 6344; Code 1932, § 10646; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-316.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-206 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-206
Vacating judgment
Status: in_force

In all cases in which the supreme court may give judgment or decree through inadvertence and oversight, when upon the face of the record no cause of action existed against the party, the court may, upon its own motion, vacate the judgment or decree. Code 1858, § 4501 (deriv. Acts 1845-1846, ch. 135); Shan., § 6334; mod. Code 1932, § 10635; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-309.
In all cases in which the supreme court may give judgment or decree through inadvertence and oversight, when upon the face of the record no cause of action existed against the party, the court may, upon its own motion, vacate the judgment or decree.
Code 1858, § 4501 (deriv. Acts 1845-1846, ch. 135); Shan., § 6334; mod. Code 1932, § 10635; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-309.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-18-308 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 18 / Section 16-18-308
Concurrent holding of any other office or employment
Status: in_force

(a) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, a judge of a municipal court may not concurrently hold any other office or employment with the municipality. This section does not apply to any municipal official or employee who, on March 1, 2005, concurrently holds office as judge of the municipal court; provided, however, that if the official or employee either discontinues service as a municipal official or employee or discontinues service as judge of the municipal court, then the exemption granted by this section no longer applies. (b) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a) to the contrary, if a municipal charter provides that the person who serves as judge of the municipal court shall also serve as the recorder for the municipality, then the person may concurrently hold both offices. Acts 2004, ch. 914, § 2; 2009, ch. 505, § 1.
(a) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, a judge of a municipal court may not concurrently hold any other office or employment with the municipality. This section does not apply to any municipal official or employee who, on March 1, 2005, concurrently holds office as judge of the municipal court; provided, however, that if the official or employee either discontinues service as a municipal official or employee or discontinues service as judge of the municipal court, then the exemption granted by this section no longer applies.
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a) to the contrary, if a municipal charter provides that the person who serves as judge of the municipal court shall also serve as the recorder for the municipality, then the person may concurrently hold both offices.
Acts 2004, ch. 914, § 2; 2009, ch. 505, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-3-408 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 3 / Section 16-3-408
Courts - Facsimile transmission of documents - Rules and procedures
Status: in_force

The supreme court is urged to develop court rules and procedures to control the process of courts using fax transmissions of documents. The court rules and procedures should provide for the following: (1) The type of document that may be faxed; (2) The length of restriction, if any, of a document that may be faxed; (3) The type of equipment and paper that must be used by clerks' offices; (4) The amount, if any, of fees to be charged for the faxing of documents; (5) The payment of regular filing fees of the court; (6) The time of filing of a faxed document; (7) Requirements, if any, for filing of original documents or original signatures; (8) Requirements, if any, for maintenance of transmittal reports of faxed documents; and (9) Any other rule or procedure the court deems appropriate. Acts 1991, ch. 146, § 3.
The supreme court is urged to develop court rules and procedures to control the process of courts using fax transmissions of documents. The court rules and procedures should provide for the following:
(1) The type of document that may be faxed;
(2) The length of restriction, if any, of a document that may be faxed;
(3) The type of equipment and paper that must be used by clerks' offices;
(4) The amount, if any, of fees to be charged for the faxing of documents;
(5) The payment of regular filing fees of the court;
(6) The time of filing of a faxed document;
(7) Requirements, if any, for filing of original documents or original signatures;
(8) Requirements, if any, for maintenance of transmittal reports of faxed documents; and
(9) Any other rule or procedure the court deems appropriate.
Acts 1991, ch. 146, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-5011 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-5011
Applicability to certain counties
Status: in_force

Only §§ 16-15-5007 and 16-15-5008 apply to any county having a population in excess of four hundred fifty thousand (450,000) and any county having a population of not less than two hundred eighty-seven thousand seven hundred (287,700) nor more than two hundred eighty-seven thousand eight hundred (287,800), according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census. Acts 1988, ch. 698, § 8.
Only §§ 16-15-5007 and 16-15-5008 apply to any county having a population in excess of four hundred fifty thousand (450,000) and any county having a population of not less than two hundred eighty-seven thousand seven hundred (287,700) nor more than two hundred eighty-seven thousand eight hundred (287,800), according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census.
Acts 1988, ch. 698, § 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-11-104 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 11 / Section 16-11-104
Proceedings in aid of execution
Status: in_force

The chancery court has exclusive jurisdiction to aid a creditor, by judgment or decree, to subject the property of the defendant that cannot be reached by execution to the satisfaction of the judgment or decree under this code. Code 1858, § 4282; Shan., § 6091; Code 1932, § 10352; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-604.
The chancery court has exclusive jurisdiction to aid a creditor, by judgment or decree, to subject the property of the defendant that cannot be reached by execution to the satisfaction of the judgment or decree under this code.
Code 1858, § 4282; Shan., § 6091; Code 1932, § 10352; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 16-604.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-202 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 15 / Section 16-15-202
Election - Term
Status: in_force

(a) The judges of the court of general sessions shall be elected at the general August election each eight (8) years. They shall hold office for the term for which they are elected or until their successors are elected and qualified. Notwithstanding any other provision of private act or general law to the contrary, the term of office of any general sessions judge whose base salary is set by [former] § 16-15-205 [repealed] or whose salary is adjusted during such term of office by the method provided by [former] § 16-15-205 [repealed] or by the method established by § 8-23-103 , shall be eight (8) years. (b) Notwithstanding § 2-13-203 , or any other provisions of a private act or general law to the contrary, in any county with more than one (1) judge of the court of general sessions, and where the most recent of private acts creating the judgeships provide for the nonpartisan election of the additional judges, then at subsequent regular August elections all judges of such court shall be elected on a nonpartisan basis. Acts 1959, ch. 109, § 13; modified; T.C.A., § 16-1106; Acts 1982, ch. 945, § 4; 1997 , ch. 357, § 1.
(a) The judges of the court of general sessions shall be elected at the general August election each eight (8) years. They shall hold office for the term for which they are elected or until their successors are elected and qualified. Notwithstanding any other provision of private act or general law to the contrary, the term of office of any general sessions judge whose base salary is set by [former] § 16-15-205 [repealed] or whose salary is adjusted during such term of office by the method provided by [former] § 16-15-205 [repealed] or by the method established by § 8-23-103 , shall be eight (8) years.
(b) Notwithstanding § 2-13-203 , or any other provisions of a private act or general law to the contrary, in any county with more than one (1) judge of the court of general sessions, and where the most recent of private acts creating the judgeships provide for the nonpartisan election of the additional judges, then at subsequent regular August elections all judges of such court shall be elected on a nonpartisan basis.
Acts 1959, ch. 109, § 13; modified; T.C.A., § 16-1106; Acts 1982, ch. 945, § 4; 1997 , ch. 357, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-6-103 — TN Code / Title 16 / Chapter 6 / Section 16-6-103
Key components of veterans treatment court programs
Status: in_force

All veterans treatment court programs in this state shall be established and operated according to the following ten (10) key components as adopted by the National Clearinghouse for Veterans Treatment Courts at the National Association of Drug Court Professionals: (1) Veterans treatment courts integrate alcohol and drug treatment and mental health services with justice system case processing; (2) Veterans treatment courts promote public safety while protecting participants' due process rights by prosecution and defense counsel using a nonadversarial approach; (3) Veterans treatment courts identify eligible participants early and promptly place them in the veterans treatment court program; (4) Veterans treatment courts provide access to a continuum of alcohol, drug, mental health, and other related treatment and rehabilitation services; (5) Veterans treatment courts monitor abstinence by frequent alcohol and other drug testing; (6) Veterans treatment courts establish a coordinated strategy to govern responses to participants' compliance; (7) Veterans treatment courts maintain ongoing judicial interaction with each veteran as an essential component of the program; (8) Veterans treatment courts utilize monitoring and evaluation to measure the achievement of program goals and gauge effectiveness; (9) Veterans treatment courts employ continuing interdisciplinary education and training to promote effective veterans treatment court planning, implementation, and operations; and (10) Veterans treatment courts forge partnerships among the court, the veterans administration, public agencies, and community-based organizations to generate local support and enhance veterans treatment court effectiveness. Acts 2015, ch. 453, § 5.
All veterans treatment court programs in this state shall be established and operated according to the following ten (10) key components as adopted by the National Clearinghouse for Veterans Treatment Courts at the National Association of Drug Court Professionals:
(1) Veterans treatment courts integrate alcohol and drug treatment and mental health services with justice system case processing;
(2) Veterans treatment courts promote public safety while protecting participants' due process rights by prosecution and defense counsel using a nonadversarial approach;
(3) Veterans treatment courts identify eligible participants early and promptly place them in the veterans treatment court program;
(4) Veterans treatment courts provide access to a continuum of alcohol, drug, mental health, and other related treatment and rehabilitation services;
(5) Veterans treatment courts monitor abstinence by frequent alcohol and other drug testing;
(6) Veterans treatment courts establish a coordinated strategy to govern responses to participants' compliance;
(7) Veterans treatment courts maintain ongoing judicial interaction with each veteran as an essential component of the program;
(8) Veterans treatment courts utilize monitoring and evaluation to measure the achievement of program goals and gauge effectiveness;
(9) Veterans treatment courts employ continuing interdisciplinary education and training to promote effective veterans treatment court planning, implementation, and operations; and
(10) Veterans treatment courts forge partnerships among the court, the veterans administration, public agencies, and community-based organizations to generate local support and enhance veterans treatment court effectiveness.
Acts 2015, ch. 453, § 5.