Circuit Court for Davidson County, Tennessee
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Document Limits
Adjournments
- Parties may not agree to modify a Scheduling Order without leave of court.
- Trial continuances require court approval (leave of court) on motion or emergency request for good cause; certain circuit courts have their own governing rules.
- A witness's absence justifies a continuance only if a subpoena was issued 10 calendar days before trial for a local witness or 14 calendar days before trial for an out-of-county witness.
- +4 more
Request must include
Page & Word Limits2 rules
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026Mandatory
Facsimile transmissions over 50 pages (including the cover sheet) will not be filed unless authorized by the Court.
Unless authorized by the Court, a facsimile transmission exceeding fifty (50) pages, including the Cover Sheet, shall not be filed by the Clerk.
Fax Transmission
50 pages
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory
A fax filing is limited to 50 pages including the cover sheet, unless the court authorizes more, and filings may not be split to evade the limit.
No facsimile filing shall exceed fifty (50) pages in length, including the cover sheet, unless authorized by the court; absent such authorization, a facsimile transmission exceeding fifty (50) pages, including the cover sheet, shall not be filed by the clerk. A facsimile filing may not be split into multiple facsimile transmissions to avoid this page limitation.
Facsimile Filing
50 pages
Document Format Requirements2 rules
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important
The original faxed document must be on letter-sized paper; larger originals may be reduced if the resulting copy is legible and complete.
The original document sent by facsimile transmission shall be on letter-sized paper (8 ½ by 11 inches). Originals on larger-sized paper may be reduced prior to facsimile transmission if the reduction to 8½ by 11 inch paper renders a legible and complete copy of the original.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Electronic signatures for filing in Circuit Court must be applied to the document in the format of the original signature.
Summary: Electronic signatures on pleadings, orders, and other court documents filed in Circuit Court must take the format of the original signature.
Document Filing Requirements67 rules
Checked against the court's document on Sep 20, 2026Mandatory
When a divorce is filed after an Order of Protection, an Order containing both the Order of Protection and Divorce case numbers must be submitted to extend the Order of Protection by operation of law until the divorce modifies or dissolves it.
1) An Order containing both the Order of Protection Case Number and the Divorce Case Number should be submitted which extends the Order of Protection by operation of law until the divorce action modifies or dissolves the Order of Protection.
Document Type
Order
Checked against the court's document on Sep 20, 2026Mandatory
When a QPO authorizing informal interviews is granted, the petitioner must notify the treating health care provider by letter with a copy of the QPO, advising that participation is voluntary and may be refused without recourse.
Should a court determine, in its discretion, that a QPO authorizing informal oral interviews with non-party treating physicians is appropriate, the petitioner shall notify the treating health care provider by letter, including a copy of the QPO, that participation in the interview is voluntary and that the provider has the right to refuse to the interview without recourse.
Document Type
Letter
Checked against the court's document on Sep 20, 2026Mandatory
If an interview discloses opinions on standard of care, compliance, or causation, the interviewing party must file a disclosure of the opinions' substance signed by the person expressing them.
In the event any opinion is disclosed during the interview concerning the standard of care of any healthcare provider, compliance with or breach of the standard, and/or causation of the alleged injury, then the party conducting the interview shall file a disclosure containing the substance of the opinions expressed. Said disclosure shall be signed by the person expressing the opinions
Document Type
Disclosure
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory
Papers must be signed with full contact information, and generative-AI content must be verified; violations may result in sanctions.
Papers must be signed with full contact information. Signatures certify accuracy and proper purpose. Use of generative AI requires verification of all content. Violations may result in sanctions.
Document Type
Filing
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory
A class-action complaint must place “Complaint – Class Action” next to the caption.
Class‑action complaints must include “Complaint – Class Action” next to the caption.
Document Type
Class Action Complaint
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory
Motions and responses must be written; unopposed motions may be granted before hearings, and proposed orders should be filed in advance.
Written motions and responses required. Unopposed motions may be granted before hearings. Proposed orders should be filed in advance.
Document Type
Motion And Response
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory
Every filing except a fully agreed order must include a certificate of service stating the date, method, and persons served.
All filings except fully agreed orders must include a certificate of service showing date, method, and persons served.
Document Type
Filing
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026Mandatory
Pro se landlords filing unlawful detainer/eviction actions must attach proof of ownership or right to possess the property, or submit it to the court at the hearing.
Landlords/Owners who are Pro Se, meaning they are not represented by legal counsel, shall upon filing an unlawful detainer or eviction proceeding, attach proof of ownership or the right to possess the property in question. The right to possession and/or ownership may be proven through property deed, title, lease, or other verifiable source. If the proof of ownership or right to possession is not filed with the court clerk by the Pro Se plaintiff prior to the hearing, said proof must be submitted to the court at the hearing.
Document Type
Unlawful Detainer Filing
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026Mandatory
Before moving for a default judgment, the plaintiff must file an SCRA affidavit regarding the defendant's military service, and moving for default judgment constitutes an affirmative representation that such affidavit was filed.
Before moving the court for a default judgment, it shall be the responsibility of the plaintiff to file with the court an affidavit as required by the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), 50 U.S.C. App. 5 521(b)(1), stating whether or not the defendant is in military service and showing necessary facts to support the affidavit; or if the plaintiff is unable to determine whether or not the defendant is in military service, stating that the plaintiff is unable to determine whether or not the defendant is in military service. If the affidavit does not state that the defendant is not in military service, the plaintiff shall inform the court of this fact at the time the default judgment is moved for. The act of moving the court to enter a default judgment against a non-appearing defendant shall be deemed an affirmative representation to the court that the plaintiff has filed an affidavit indicating that the defendant is not in military service.
Document Type
Default Judgment
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory
Each fax-filed document must include a cover sheet with the listed case, document, sender, page-count, date, and filing-instruction information.
Any document filed by facsimile transmission shall be accompanied by the uniform cover sheet set forth in the comment to this rule stating: the caption of the case; the trial court docket number; the title of the transmitted document; the number of pages of the facsimile transmission (including the cover sheet); the sender’s name, address, voice telephone number, and facsimile telephone number; and the date of the facsimile transmission. The cover sheet shall also contain clear and concise instructions as to the filing of the transmitted document.
Document Type
Facsimile Filing Cover Sheet
Checked against the court's document on Sep 20, 2026Important
A separate Order must be submitted on the Order of Protection case when the divorce action concludes or modifies or dissolves the Order of Protection.
2) A separate Order should be submitted on the Order of Protection case when the divorce action is concluded or when the divorce action modifies or dissolves the Order of Protection.
Document Type
Order
Checked against the court's document on Sep 20, 2026Important
A party seeking to lift these orders must file a written motion stating the grounds during the applicable filing deadlines.
Further, should a party wish that the ORDER/S be lifted, that party must file a written motion stating such grounds during the applicable filing deadlines.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026Important
Filings of companion or third-party civil cases must note the companion relationship to a pending General Sessions Court case, and such cases are consolidated for trial.
Upon the filing of any civil action, which is, related to a pending action in General Sessions Court (e.g., Cross Warrant to Third Party Complaint), the party filing such companion case shall note the new warrant is a companion case to a pending General Sessions Court case. All companion or third-party cases shall be consolidated for trial with the original action.
Document Type
Companion Case Filing
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026Important
A served civil warrant with a trial date set may only be amended with leave of court.
If a Civil Warrant has been served and a trial date set, the Plaintiff may only amend the Warrant with leave of court, and leave shall be freely given when justice so requires.
Document Type
Amended Civil Warrant
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026Important
For minor personal injury settlements, the Court holds a chambers hearing with the minor and guardian present, and Plaintiff's Counsel must provide documentation of medical expenses and the minor's present medical condition.
In all cases where the parties propose to settle a personal injury claim brought on behalf of a minor, the Court shall conduct a hearing to chambers at which the minor and his/her guardian are present. At such hearing, Plaintiff's Counsel shall provide the Court with documentation reflecting the medical expenses incurred in connection with the claim and describing the minor's present medical condition.
Document Type
Medical Expense Documentation
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026Important
Agreed Orders or Judgments must be signed by all parties or their attorneys, or the presenting party must sign, certifying that the opposing party has been notified of the entry, its terms, and the date of entry.
All parties or their attorneys shall sign all Agreed Orders or Judgments which are presented to the Court or the party presenting the Order or Judgments shall sign the Judgments, thereby certifying that the opposing party has been notified of the entry of the Agreed Order or judgment, its terms and the date of entry.
Document Type
Agreed Order
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026Important
Judgments containing more than a single element must list damages and attorney's fee separately before the total.
All judgments, including default judgments and agreed orders, which contain more than a single element must list damages and attorney's fee separately before the total.
Document Type
Judgment
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026Important
Agreed judgments must be signed by both parties and/or their attorneys.
Document Type
Agreed Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important
Fax-filed documents remain subject to all applicable court rules, including rules on document content and form, signatures, and service.
All documents filed by facsimile transmission shall comply with all applicable rules of court, including, without limitation, rules governing the content and form of pleadings and other papers; the signing of pleadings, motions and other papers; and the service of all papers.
Document Type
Facsimile Filed Document
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026Note
Parties filing an uncontested/irreconcilable differences Divorce Complaint may file a Motion to Exempt from the parenting seminar if an Agreed Permanent Parenting Plan is filed.
If the parties are filing an uncontested/irreconcilable differences Divorce Complaint, the parties may opt to file a "Motion to Exempt" themselves from the parenting seminar if an Agreed Permanent Parenting Plan is filed with the Court.
Document Type
Motion To Exempt
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Note
A signature reproduced by fax is treated as an original signature.
A signature reproduced by facsimile transmission shall be treated as an original signature.
Document Type
Facsimile Filed Document
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
No attorney may withdraw as counsel of record except by leave of court for good cause upon motion after notice to all parties, including the withdrawing attorney's client, and order entered.
Summary: An attorney may withdraw as counsel of record only by leave of court for good cause, upon motion after notice to all parties including the client, and entry of an order.
Document Type
Motion To Withdraw
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
Motions to file court documents under seal must state specific facts and compelling reasons sufficient to overcome the presumption in favor of public access to court records.
Summary: Motions to seal must state specific facts and compelling reasons overcoming the presumption of public access.
Document Type
Motion To Seal
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
When the court directs, counsel will prepare orders for the court’s entry. All proposed orders must be filed with the Clerk and served on opposing counsel within 7 calendar days of the court’s ruling.
Summary: Proposed orders prepared by counsel must be filed with the Clerk within 7 calendar days of the court's ruling.
Document Type
Proposed Order
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
the applicant’s attorney or the self-represented applicant certifies in writing the efforts made to give notice of the application and the reasons why notice should not be required;
Summary: A TRO applicant must certify in writing the efforts made to notify the adverse party and why notice should not be required.
Document Type
Temporary Restraining Order Application
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
The applicant must submit a proposed restraining order with the application that provides space for the court to set a date, time, and location for a temporary injunction hearing.
Summary: TRO applications must include a proposed restraining order with space for the court to set the temporary injunction hearing date, time, and location.
Document Type
Temporary Restraining Order Application
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
The motion to set the case for trial must include a notice of hearing date for the motion.
Summary: The motion to set the case for trial must include a notice of the hearing date for the motion.
Document Type
Motion To Set For Trial
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
In all cases, the court will require a Scheduling Order. The Scheduling Order must establish deadlines to complete discovery and ADR, and must either set a trial date or a date by which the trial must be set in the first numbered paragraph of the Order.
Summary: A Scheduling Order is required in all cases and must establish discovery and ADR deadlines and set a trial date or trial-setting deadline in its first numbered paragraph.
Document Type
Scheduling Order
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
All subpoenas to medical providers for medical records must comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (H.I.P.A.A.), see 45 C.F.R. § 164.512(e), and include the following notice:
Summary: Subpoenas to medical providers for medical records must comply with HIPAA and include the specified HIPAA notice.
Document Type
Subpoena To Medical Provider
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
Trial briefs are required in all non-jury civil cases.
Document Type
Trial Brief
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
The certificate of service must include each person's last known mailing address, even if Notice if given by a method other than mailing.
Summary: The certificate of service must include each person's last known mailing address even when notice is given by a method other than mailing.
Document Type
Certificate Of Service
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
A verified petition to probate a testamentary instrument (will or codicil) must include all of the information required by statute and these Rules. The petition must contain a paragraph that identifies the names, addresses, ages, and relationships to the decedent of all beneficiaries under the testamentary instrument. In addition, the petition must contain a separate paragraph that identifies the names, addresses, ages, and relationships to the decedent of all the decedent's intestate heirs under Tenn. Code Ann. § 31-2-104.
Summary: Petitions to probate a will or codicil must identify all beneficiaries and intestate heirs with names, addresses, ages, and relationships to the decedent.
Document Type
Petition To Probate
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
A verified petition to administer an intestate estate must include all of the information required by statute and these Rules. The petition must contain a paragraph that identifies the names, addresses, ages, and relationships to the decedent of all the decedent's intestate heirs under Tenn. Code Ann. § 31-2-104.
Summary: Petitions to administer intestate estates must identify all intestate heirs with names, addresses, ages, and relationships to the decedent.
Document Type
Petition To Administer Intestate Estate
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
A petition to establish a conservatorship or for the appointment of an expedited limited healthcare fiduciary must be verified and contain the information required by statute and these Rules.
Summary: Petitions to establish a conservatorship or appoint an expedited limited healthcare fiduciary must be verified and contain all statutorily required information.
Document Type
Petition To Establish Conservatorship
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
A petition to establish a guardianship for a minor must be verified and contain the information required by statute and these Rules.
Summary: Petitions to establish a guardianship for a minor must be verified and contain all statutorily required information.
Document Type
Petition To Establish Guardianship
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
A conservator may not sell a respondent’s interest in real property without court approval. The conservator must file a verified petition to sell real property. The petition must establish that the proposed sale either (i) is in the respondent’s best interest, or (ii) is necessary to pay the respondent’s financial obligations.
Summary: A conservator must obtain court approval to sell a respondent's real property by filing a verified petition establishing the sale is in the respondent's best interest or necessary to pay obligations.
Document Type
Petition To Sell Real Property
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
The fiduciary must attach to the motion, (i) a copy of the sales contract, and (ii) the County Assessor of Property’s report of the real property’s assessed value or a professional appraisal of the real property.
Summary: The motion to approve a sales contract must attach a copy of the sales contract and the County Assessor's report or a professional appraisal.
Document Type
Motion To Approve Sales Contract
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
For sales of real property in which court approval is required, when the fiduciary enters into a sales contract, the fiduciary must file and serve a motion to approve the contract under Local Rules §§ 26 and 39.13, and give Notice to all Interested Parties, including the respondent if in a conservatorship.
Summary: When court approval is required, the fiduciary must file and serve a motion to approve the sales contract and give notice to all interested parties.
Document Type
Motion To Approve Sales Contract
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
Unless the court expressly directs otherwise, any order granting a petition to sell real property must authorize the fiduciary to obtain an appraisal, list the real property for sale, market the property, and enter into a contract for sale of the real property.
Summary: An order granting a petition to sell real property must authorize the fiduciary to obtain an appraisal, list and market the property, and enter into a sales contract.
Document Type
Order Granting Petition To Sell Real Property
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
A guardian may not sell a minor’s interest in real property without court approval. The guardian must file a verified petition to sell real property. The petition must establish that the proposed sale either (i) is in the minor’s best interest, or (ii) is necessary to pay the minor’s financial obligations.
Summary: A guardian must obtain court approval to sell a minor's real property by filing a verified petition establishing the sale is in the minor's best interest or necessary to pay obligations.
Document Type
Petition To Sell Real Property
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
Any contract for sale of the real property must list the fiduciary as the seller (on behalf of the decedent’s estate, respondent under conservatorship, or minor under guardianship). Any contract for sale of the real property must expressly and conspicuously state that the sale of the real property is Subject to Court Approval. The fiduciary must sign the contract for sale in a fiduciary capacity and not in an individual capacity.
Summary: Sales contracts must list the fiduciary as seller, conspicuously state the sale is subject to court approval, and be signed by the fiduciary in a fiduciary capacity.
Document Type
Contract For Sale Of Real Property
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
represent an indigent defendant in Davidson County General Sessions Criminal Court under Davidson County General Session Criminal Court Local Rule of Practice 2 must provide written notice to the Clerk and the defendant immediately upon the conclusion of the General Sessions criminal matter whether or not counsel is willing to accept appointment at arraignment in Criminal Court.
Summary: Counsel who represented an indigent defendant in General Sessions Criminal Court must immediately provide written notice to the Clerk and the defendant upon conclusion of the matter stating whether counsel is willing to accept appointment at arraignment in Criminal Court.
Document Type
Notice
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
Objections to a master’s report based on factual questions must be supported by a transcript of the hearing before the master.
Summary: Factual objections to a master's report must be supported by a transcript of the master's hearing.
Document Type
Objection To Master Report
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
All references to a master must be by order that specifies what issues are referred. Partition references must address (1) ownership interests; (2) encumbrances; (3) partition type; (4) method of sale; and (5) property value.
Summary: References to a master must be by order specifying the referred issues; partition references must address five enumerated items.
Document Type
Order Of Reference
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
In cases where parties claim funds or proceeds on deposit with the court, the parties must file itemized statements of their claims and responses to statements of claims as the master directs.
Summary: Parties claiming funds on deposit with the court must file itemized statements of claims and responses as the master directs.
Document Type
Statement Of Claims
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
An attorney’s or party’s signature to an appeal from General Sessions Court to Circuit Court constitutes a certification under Tenn. R. Civ. P. 11.02.
Summary: Signing an appeal from General Sessions Court to Circuit Court certifies the appeal under Tenn. R. Civ. P. 11.02.
Document Type
Appeal From General Sessions
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
If the court grants a continuance, the order granting the continuance must state the reason for the continuance and must continue the trial to a date certain or a date to be set by separate order.
Summary: An order granting a continuance must state the reason and continue the trial to a date certain or a date to be set by separate order.
Document Type
Order Granting Continuance
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
All orders setting non-jury trials must include an estimate of how long the trial will last.
Summary: Orders setting non-jury trials must include an estimate of trial duration.
Document Type
Order Setting Non Jury Trial
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
The attorney or party requesting a subpoena must provide the street address and phone number, if known, of the witness on the requested subpoena.
Summary: The requesting attorney or party must include the witness's street address and phone number, if known, on the subpoena.
Document Type
Subpoena
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
The signature of counsel or the party on the subpoena is counsel’s or the party’s certification that the above notice was provided to the patient.
Summary: Signing a subpoena to a medical provider certifies that the HIPAA notice was provided to the patient.
Document Type
Subpoena To Medical Provider
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
In any case in which a jury is demanded, the words “JURY DEMAND” must appear in capital letters on the first page of the pleading opposite the case style, below the case number.
Summary: When a jury is demanded, “JURY DEMAND” must appear in capital letters on the first page of the pleading opposite the case style and below the case number.
Document Type
Pleading
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
If counsel hold a telephone conference rather than a face-to-face meeting, they must make the exhibits available for viewing before the conference.
Summary: If counsel hold a telephone conference instead of meeting face-to-face, exhibits must be made available for viewing before the conference.
Document Type
Exhibits
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
Counsel for prevailing parties prepare orders for entry by the court unless the court directs otherwise. Proposed orders should be submitted to the Clerk and served on opposing counsel within 7 calendar days after the court's ruling.
Summary: Prevailing party's counsel must prepare and submit proposed orders to the Clerk and serve opposing counsel within 7 calendar days of the ruling.
Document Type
Proposed Order
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
Any party offering documentary evidence for jurors to read must provide a copy for each juror and one copy for the court.
Summary: Parties offering documentary evidence for jurors must provide a copy for each juror and one copy for the court.
Document Type
Exhibits
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
Make requests for modified existing instructions by reference to the pattern instruction by number, with the addition or deletion, and cite to appropriate authority.
Summary: Requests for modified jury instructions must reference the pattern instruction by number, state the addition or deletion, and cite authority.
Document Type
Jury Instructions
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
Clerk or otherwise, the party must file a notice of satisfaction of judgment.
Summary: A party must file a notice of satisfaction of judgment.
Document Type
Notice Of Satisfaction Of Judgment
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
other than to administer small estates, must file a status report updating the court on what is left to be done to fully administer the estate, and estimating how much time it will take, on the date which is 15 months after the date of the appointment, and then annually thereafter until the court enters an order closing the estate.
Summary: Personal representatives (except small-estate administrations) must file a status report 15 months after appointment and annually thereafter until the estate is closed.
Document Type
Status Report
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Note?
A party may object to a master’s report by filing a motion noticed for hearing on the court’s regular motion docket under Local Rule § 26.
Summary: A party may object to a master's report by filing a motion noticed for hearing on the regular motion docket.
Document Type
Objection To Master Report
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Note?
Adverse counsel must be permitted to review the recording or animation in the form it will be offered at trial and to copy the recording or animation at adverse counsel’s expense.
Summary: Adverse counsel must be allowed to review the recording or animation in its trial form and copy it at adverse counsel's expense.
Document Type
Recording Or Animation
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Note?
If an issue being litigated at trial has been briefed in pre-trial motions and counsel wishes to rely on earlier briefing, counsel may refer the court to the motion brief in lieu of briefing the issue for trial.
Summary: Counsel may refer the court to an earlier motion brief instead of re-briefing an issue for trial.
Document Type
Trial Brief
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Note?
If the petitioner is represented by an attorney, the attorney may file a request for review and approval of the petition without a hearing. The request must conform to all applicable guidelines and forms issued by the court. The review on record option is not available beyond the limited circumstances and types of proceedings described and authorized in the court's guidelines.
Summary: Attorneys may request review on record without a hearing, but the request must conform to court guidelines and is limited to authorized proceedings.
Document Type
Request For Review
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Petitioner shall prepare an acknowledgment, bearing the style of the case, which must be provided and signed before any communication takes place. The acknowledgment shall contain the following language, in bold face font:
Summary: Before any ex parte interview communication occurs, the petitioner must obtain a signed acknowledgment bearing the style of the case and containing specified language in bold font.
Document Type
Acknowledgment
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Effective as of January 1, 2010, no final decree of divorce or marital dissolution agreement shall be approved by the Court that is not in strict compliance with the provisions of T.C.A. § 36-4-134 as follows
Summary: No final divorce decree or marital dissolution agreement may be approved unless it strictly complies with T.C.A. § 36-4-134.
Document Type
Divorce Decree
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Motions must attach the contract and property valuation, and sales cannot close until approved.
Summary: A motion to approve a contract must include the contract and property valuation, and the sale cannot close before court approval.
Document Type
Motion To Approve Contract
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Important?
When a defendant satisfies a civil judgment prior to the Court date by paying the monies to the Civil Court Clerk's office and the plaintiff's attorney takes a Non-Suit, the plaintiff's attorney shall prepare an Order entering formal written notice of Non-Suit and requesting disbursement of funds.
Summary: The plaintiff's attorney must prepare an Order entering formal written notice of Non-Suit and requesting disbursement of funds when a defendant satisfies a civil judgment before the Court date.
Document Type
Order
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Important?
The filing of the original document shall not be required after facsimile filing. The sender shall retain the original document in the sender’s possession or control during the pendency of the action and shall produce such document upon request by the court or any party to the action. Upon failure to produce such document, the court may strike the document filed by facsimile transmission.
Summary: After fax filing, the sender need not file the original but must retain it during the action and produce it upon request; failure to do so may result in the fax-filed document being stricken.
Document Type
Facsimile Filed Document
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
Papers must be filed with the Clerk; courts use electronic filing, some documents require paper filing, and papers should not be sent directly to Judges without authorization.
All papers must be filed with the Clerk. All courts use electronic filing; some documents must be filed in paper format. Papers should not be sent directly to Judges unless authorized.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026
Page 1 | § 6.01 – Filing with the Clerk
Electronic filing is adopted for General Sessions Courts in addition to traditional paper filing, governed by each Clerk's Office's Electronic Filing Rules.
In addition to traditional paper submission and filing with the Clerk, in accordance with Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 16, Chapter 15, Part 7, electronic filing is adopted for the General Sessions Courts of Davidson County Tennessee. The Electronic Filing Rules and effective date set forth by each Clerk's Office govern the electronic filing of cases, pleadings and other papers.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026
Page 2 | RULE 3. FILING AND SERVICE OF PAPERS
Papers may be filed with the trial court clerk by facsimile transmission under this rule.
The trial court clerk shall accept papers for filing by facsimile transmission as provided in this rule.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 5A.02: FILING PROCEDURES
In Chancery Court, the subpoena must be submitted to the Clerk in paper form, in triplicate.
In Chancery Court, submit the subpoena by conventional paper form, in triplicate, to the Clerk for issuance.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 29 | RULE 28 SUBPOENAS
In Circuit Court, one electronic copy of the subpoena must be submitted to the Clerk for issuance.
In Circuit Court, submit one copy of the subpoena electronically to the Clerk for issuance.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 29 | RULE 28 SUBPOENAS
Discovery material should not be filed with the Clerk unless the court is asked to consider it.
Discovery material should not be filed with the Clerk unless and until a party asks the court to consider it for any purpose.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 16 | RULE 22 DISCOVERY AND DISCOVERY-RELATED MOTIONS
Digital signatures in any form other than the original signature format are prohibited, and the Clerk will refuse to file any non-compliant document.
Until further orders of the Court, digital signatures in any manner other than in the format of the original signature shall not be applied to documents filed in Circuit Court and the Clerk shall refuse to file any document that doesn't comply with this order.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER
The listed fee-bearing pleadings, summonses, wills and codicils, bonds, documents requiring an official seal, previously sealed confidential documents, and notices of appeal cannot be filed by fax.
The following documents shall not be filed in the trial court by facsimile transmission: (a) Any pleading or similar document for which a filing fee and/or litigation tax must be paid (excluding the facsimile service charge), including, without limitation, a complaint commencing a civil action, an appeal from the general sessions court to the circuit court, and an appeal to a trial court from an inferior tribunal, board or officer; (b) A summons; (c) A will or codicil to a will; a bond; or any pleading or document requiring an official seal; (d) A confidential document that the court previously has ordered to be filed under seal; (e) A notice of appeal.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 5A.02: FILING PROCEDURES
If fax transmission is unsuccessful, the sender may file by mail or in person, with the filing date determined under the cited civil procedure rules.
In the event that a facsimile transmission to the clerk is unsuccessful, the sender may file the document by mail or in person; in such cases, the filing date shall be determined as provided in Rules 5.06 and 6, Tenn. R. Civ. P.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 5A.03: EFFECT OF FACSIMILE FILING
Fax filings are accepted and stamp-filed by the clerk in accordance with TRCP 5A.03.
Upon our office receiving your fax filing: We will stamp-file it in accordance with TRCP 5A.03.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
The disclosure must be filed with the court within thirty days of the interview.
Said disclosure shall be signed by the person expressing the opinions and shall be filed with the court and served on all parties within thirty (30) days of the interview.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 20, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 2 | Order Regarding Qualified Protective Orders
Writs of restitution must be directed to the assigned Circuit Court for review before being issued by the Clerk.
It appearing to the Court that it is proper for Writs of Restitution submitted to the Clerk for issuance as a result of a possession Order entered in the Davidson County General Sessions Court and appealed to the Circuit Court to be directed to the assigned Circuit Court for review before being issued by the Clerk.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER
Divorcing parents must complete the parenting seminar and file the certificate within 60 days of filing the Divorce Complaint.
It is hereby ORDERED, ADJUDGED and DECREED that in all divorce cases filed, where there are children who will be subject to the jurisdiction of the Court, the divorcing parents shall have sixty (60) days from the date of filing the Divorce Complaint within which to complete the statutorily mandated parenting seminar and file the certificate in the Circuit Court Clerk's Office.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER
No filing deadline extensions or exceptions are granted when the electronic filing system is down or inoperable.
There will be no statute of limitations/filing deadline extensions or exceptions made when the electronic filing system is down or inoperable.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026
Page 2 | RULE 3. FILING AND SERVICE OF PAPERS
When the clerk's office is closed or inaccessible, the filing period runs until the end of the next business day.
Any day on which the office of the court clerk is closed or on which weather or other conditions have made the office of the court clerk inaccessible, the period of time for filing a paper in court shall run until the end of the next business day.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026
Page 3 | RULE 3. FILING AND SERVICE OF PAPERS
A Writ of Restitution or Writ of Possession must be filed within 90 days of the judgment date; after 90 days, the landlord or plaintiff may file a new action or a motion to order issuance of the Writ.
If a landlord or plaintiff obtains a judgment for possession of real or personal property which is not appealed, any Writ of Restitution or Writ of Possession, if one is to be issued at all to the Sheriff, must be filed within ninety (90) days of the date of judgment thereon. After ninety (90) days from the date of judgment, the landlord or plaintiff may file a new civil action to gain possession or may file a motion with the court asking that the court order the issuance of the Writ regardless of the fact that more than ninety (90) days has elapsed from the date of judgment.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026
Page 6 | RULE 9. NEGOTIATIONS, SETTLEMENTS, JUDGMENTS AND ORDERS - 9.06 Judgments for Possession of Real or Personal Property
The clerk must receive payment and a copy of the fax cover sheet no later than 10 calendar days after the fax filing.
Payment of the service charge, accompanied by a copy of the facsimile filing cover sheet, shall be received by the trial court clerk not later than ten (10) calendar days after the facsimile filing.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 5A.04: FACSIMILE SERVICE CHARGE
On a day the clerk’s office is open for filing, a fax received after 4:30 p.m. but before midnight local time is deemed filed that business day.
A facsimile transmission received by the clerk after 4:30 p.m. but before midnight, clerk’s local time, on a day the clerk’s office is open for filing shall be deemed filed as of that business day.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 5A.03: EFFECT OF FACSIMILE FILING
Exhibits for virtual appearances should be pre-filed with the Clerk at least three business days before the hearing.
All exhibits intended to be offered by any party or witness appearing virtually should be pre-filed with the Clerk of the Court at least three (3) business days in advance of the hearing.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026
Page 8 | RULE 15. ALLOWANCE OF VIRTUAL APPEARANCES ON CIVIL DOCKETS
When the complete fax is received, the clerk must mark its filing date as for original papers, using the date and time printed by the clerk’s fax machine to determine receipt.
Upon receiving a facsimile transmission in its entirety, the clerk shall note the filing date on the facsimile filing in the same manner as with original pleadings or other documents filed by mail or in person. For purposes of this provision, “received by the clerk” means the date and time the facsimile transmission is received by the clerk as indicated by the date and time printed on the facsimile transmission by the clerk’s facsimile machine.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 5A.03: EFFECT OF FACSIMILE FILING
An appealing party must file a motion to set the case for trial within 45 calendar days after filing the appeal in Circuit Court.
Within 45 calendar days after the appeal is filed in Circuit Court, the appealing party must file a motion to set the case for trial.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 16 | RULE 20 GENERAL SESSIONS APPEALS TO CIRCUIT COURT
Failure to obtain an order setting the case for trial by the Scheduling Order deadline results in dismissal without further notice.
If the parties do not obtain an order setting the case for trial by the deadline established in the Scheduling Order, the court will dismiss the case without further notice.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 28 | § 27.06 Administering and Assigning Circuit Court Cases for Jury Trials
Trial briefs must be filed and served at least 3 business days before trial.
The parties must file and serve their briefs at least 3 business days before trial.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 30 | RULE 29 PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE IN CIVIL CASES
The fiduciary cannot close the real property sale until the court approves the sales contract.
The fiduciary may not close the sale of the real property until the court approves the sales contract.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 38 | § 39.07 Sale of Real Property
After a civil case is final, parties have 30 calendar days to retrieve paper-format trial exhibits and discovery materials before the Clerk may destroy them.
After a civil case is final, the Clerk will provide notice to the parties that they have 30 calendar days to retrieve any trial exhibits and discovery materials that were filed in paper format. The Clerk may destroy or dispose of materials left in the Clerk’s possession after that time.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 9 | § 7.01
The Clerk holds an order signed only by preparing counsel for 3 business days to allow opposing counsel time to object.
Unless the court directs otherwise, the court will not immediately enter an order signed only by counsel who prepared the order. The Clerk will hold the order for 3 business days to allow opposing counsel time to notify the minute clerk that counsel objects to the order’s contents.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 14 | § 15.03 Disagreements over Contents of Orders or Judgments
Opposing counsel must meet face-to-face or by telephone at least 3 business days before trial to exchange witness names and contact information.
At least 3 business days before trial, opposing counsel must either meet face-to-face or hold a telephone conference to: (a) exchange the names of witnesses they expect to call at trial, including anticipated impeachment or rebuttal witnesses, and the witnesses’ addresses and home and business telephone numbers if that information was not provided in discovery; and
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 29 | RULE 29 PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE IN CIVIL CASES
Subpoenas for local witnesses must be issued no later than 10 calendar days before trial, unless the court allows a shorter time.
Subpoenas for local witnesses must be issued no later than 10 calendar days before the date of trial unless the court has allowed issuance within a shorter time.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 29 | RULE 28 SUBPOENAS
Subpoenas for out-of-county witnesses must be issued no later than 14 calendar days before trial, unless the court allows a shorter time.
Subpoenas for out-of-county witnesses must be issued no later than 14 calendar days before the date of trial, unless the court has allowed issuance within a shorter time.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 29 | RULE 28 SUBPOENAS
Requests for special jury instructions must be filed and served by the end of the first day of trial unless the court directs otherwise.
Parties must file and serve requests for special jury instructions at the end of the first day of trial or as the court otherwise directs.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 30 | RULE 31 JURY TRIALS IN CIVIL CASES
Unresolved objections to audio/video recordings or animation must be raised by a motion in limine set for hearing early enough for the court to rule and allow any necessary editing.
If they cannot resolve their dispute, objecting counsel must file a motion in limine set for hearing sufficiently before trial to allow time for the court to rule on the objections and for any necessary editing.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 30 | RULE 29 PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE IN CIVIL CASES
A party intending to use an audio or video recording or animation in a jury trial must give adverse counsel written notice at least 10 business days before trial.
Any party who intends to use an audio or video recording or animation in a jury trial must provide written notice to adverse counsel at least 10 business days before trial.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 30 | RULE 29 PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE IN CIVIL CASES
Requests for jury interrogatories must be filed and served by the end of the first day of trial unless the court directs otherwise.
Parties must file and serve requests for jury interrogatories at the end of the first day of trial or as the court otherwise directs. Jury interrogatories may be requested after that only when counsel could not have reasonably anticipated the issue.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 31 | Jury Interrogatories
Opposing counsel has 3 business days to object to a proposed order and submit a competing order; otherwise the proposed order is submitted to the Judge.
The Clerk will hold proposed orders signed only by the attorney who prepared the order for 3 business days. If opposing counsel believes the proposed order does not accurately reflect the court's ruling, opposing counsel must notify the court's staff in Circuit Court or Calendar Clerk in Chancery Court within the 3-day period and submit a competing order for the court to consider. If the court's staff or Calendar Clerk does not receive a timely objection, the court's staff or Calendar Clerk will submit the proposed order to the Judge.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 31 | § 33.02 Disagreements over Contents of Orders and Judgments
The original will or codicil must be tendered to the Circuit Court Clerk within 5 business days after filing the petition.
The original testamentary instrument must be tendered to the Circuit Court Clerk within 5 business days after filing the petition.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 36 | § 39.03(a) Decedents' Estates
The Clerk must issue a subpoena even when it is requested after the Rule 28 deadlines.
The Clerk must issue a subpoena even if it is requested after the deadlines established by this Rule.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 29 | RULE 28 SUBPOENAS
Special jury instructions may be requested after the end of the first day of trial only for issues counsel could not reasonably anticipate.
Special instructions may be requested after that only when counsel could not have reasonably anticipated the issue.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 30 | RULE 31 JURY TRIALS IN CIVIL CASES
Adverse counsel must promptly notify the offering party of any objections to the recording or animation.
Adverse counsel must promptly advise the offering party of any objections to the recording or animation.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 30 | RULE 29 PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE IN CIVIL CASES
The executed acknowledgment must be filed with the court within three days of execution.
This acknowledgment shall be filed with the court and served on all parties within three (3) days following its execution.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 2 | Order Regarding Qualified Protective Orders
Orders must state the grounds for waivers and accurately reflect the basis of rulings, and must be submitted within seven days unless extended.
Orders must state grounds for waivers, accurately reflect basis of rulings, and be submitted within 7 days unless extended.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | § 39.16 Orders and Decrees
The HUD-1/ALTA statement and inventory must be filed within 30 days after closing.
HUD‑1/ALTA statement and inventory must be filed within 30 days.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | § 39.07 – Post-Closing Requirements
Status reports are required 15 months after appointment and annually thereafter.
Required 15 months after appointment and annually thereafter.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | § 39.03 – Status Reports
A guardian ad litem’s report must be filed at least three business days before the hearing.
Reports must be filed at least 3 business days before hearings.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | § 39.10 Guardians Ad Litem
A litigant found non-indigent has 30 days from the determination to submit an amended pauper's oath with required financial documentation or pay the proper filing fee.
Thirty (30) days from that date to submit an amended pauper's oath with any additionally required documentation of expenses and/or income as determined by the Circuit Court Judge, or pay the proper filing fee.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER
A litigant found non-indigent has 10 days from the non-indigency determination to request a hearing before a Circuit Judge.
Ten (10) days from that date to request a hearing before a Circuit Judge.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER
If the litigant files neither a hearing request nor an amended pauper's oath/payment within the specified timeframe, the Clerk shall return the filing to them.
If neither action as set forth below is filed within the specified time-frame below, the Clerk shall return the filing to the litigant.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER
Judgment Orders, Show Cause Orders, and Body Attachments must be submitted to the Clerk for the Judge's signature within 5 days of the ruling.
All Judgment Orders, Show Cause Orders, and Body Attachments prepared by Attorneys or parties subsequent to hearing shall be submitted to the Clerk for signature of the Judge within five (5) days of the ruling thereon.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 6 | RULE 9. NEGOTIATIONS, SETTLEMENTS, JUDGMENTS AND ORDERS - 9.07 Time Limit to Submit Judgments and Orders
A fax received before 8:00 a.m. on a business day, or on a day the clerk’s office is closed, is deemed filed on the preceding business day.
A facsimile transmission received after midnight but before 8:00 a.m., clerk’s local time, on a business day, or a facsimile transmission received by the clerk on a Saturday, Sunday, legal holiday, or other day on which the clerk’s office for filing is closed, shall be deemed filed on the preceding business day.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 5A.03: EFFECT OF FACSIMILE FILING
A Slow Pay Motion is subject to dismissal if the moving party fails to answer within 20 minutes after the commencement of the docket call.
When the moving party on a Slow Pay Motion fails to answer at the first call of the docket, such Motion shall be subject to dismissal at the expiration of 20 minutes after the commencement of the docket call.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 5 | RULE 8. DISMISSALS - 8.01 Slow Pay Motions
The sender bears the risk of fax-filing failures, including equipment malfunctions, power outages, dialing errors, and busy signals.
The sender bears the risk of using facsimile transmission to convey a document to a court for filing, including, without limitation, malfunction of facsimile equipment, whether the sender’s or the clerk’s equipment; electrical power outages; incorrectly dialed telephone numbers; or receipt of a busy signal from the clerk’s facsimile telephone number.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 5A.03: EFFECT OF FACSIMILE FILING
Service and Proof of Service Rules
The executed acknowledgment must be served on all parties within three days of execution.
This acknowledgment shall be filed with the court and served on all parties within three (3) days following its execution.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 20, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 2 | Order Regarding Qualified Protective Orders
The disclosure must be served on all parties within thirty days of the interview.
Said disclosure shall be signed by the person expressing the opinions and shall be filed with the court and served on all parties within thirty (30) days of the interview.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 20, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 2 | Order Regarding Qualified Protective Orders
When notice is required, it may be given by mail, fax, e-service, email, or hand delivery; e-service is limited and requires confirmed enrollment, and additional rules apply to specified recipients.
When required, Notice must be given by mailing, faxing, e-serving, emailing, or hand‑delivery. Additional rules apply to minors, incompetent persons, and parties under disability. E‑service is limited and requires confirmation of enrollment.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026
Page 1 | § 39.02 – Service of Process; Notice; Interested Parties
Petitions must be set for hearing unless review on the record is used, and Interested Parties must receive notice.
Petitions must be set for hearing unless review on record is used. Notice must be served to Interested Parties.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026
Page 1 | § 39.03 – Hearings
Service of process is required only for solemn-form probate.
Required for solemn form probate only.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026
Page 1 | § 39.03 – Service of Process
The certificate of service must state the date, method, and persons served.
All filings except fully agreed orders must include a certificate of service showing date, method, and persons served.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026
Page 1 | § 6.02 – Certificate of Service
When service of process is required, parties must serve the petition and summons under Tennessee Rule of Civil Procedure 4.
When required, parties must serve a petition and summons under Tenn. R. Civ. P. 4.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026
Page 1 | § 39.02 – Service of Process; Notice; Interested Parties
Adversary proceedings require service of process and notice to non-party Interested Parties.
Proceedings require Service of Process and Notice to non‑party Interested Parties.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026
Page 1 | § 39.09 Adversary Proceedings
Guardianship petitions must be verified; service of process must be made on the minor unless performed by a guardian ad litem, and notice must go to closest relatives, custodians, and Interested Parties.
Verified petitions are required. Service of Process must be effected on the minor unless performed by a guardian ad litem. Notice must be given to closest relatives, custodians, and Interested Parties.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026
Page 1 | § 39.06 Guardianships
Upon a non-indigency determination, the Clerk must mail a letter to the litigant informing them of the applicable timeframes.
Upon a determination of non-indigency by a Circuit Court Special Master, the Clerk shall mail a letter to the litigant informing the litigant of the timeframes set forth below.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Sep 21, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER
Post-hearing briefs must be filed with the Civil Court Clerk, a copy delivered to the Judge, and a copy contemporaneously mailed to opposing counsel or pro se party.
All Post-Hearing Briefs or Memoranda of Law shall be filed with the Civil Court Clerk of the Court, and a copy shall be delivered to the Judge in open Court or in the General Sessions office in the A. A. Birch Building to the Judge before whom the case is pending and a copy contemporaneously mailed to the opposing Counsel of party, or to the pro-se party.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026
Page 3 | RULE 3. FILING AND SERVICE OF PAPERS
When a continuance is granted in the defendant's absence, the plaintiff must give written notice of the new court date, time, and place, and be prepared to exhibit a copy to the court upon request.
If a continuance to a date certain is requested by the plaintiff and granted but the defendant is not present at the hearing, the plaintiff shall give written notice to the defendant of the new court date, time, and place. Plaintiff should be prepared to exhibit to the court a copy of said written notice upon request.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026
Page 4 | RULE 6. CONTINUANCES
Rule 5A does not itself authorize service by fax; the advisory comment directs readers to Rule 5, which permits fax service when fax filing is permitted.
In addition, the Commission points out that Rule 5A does not authorize the service of documents by facsimile transmission. See Rule 5A.02(5) (requiring, in pertinent part, compliance with all applicable rules of court governing service of papers). Please refer to Rule 5, Tenn. R. Civ. P., for the provisions in these Rules governing the service of pleadings and other papers after the filing of the original complaint; amended Rule 5.02 permits service by fax if filing by fax is permitted.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | Advisory Commission Comments [2004]
Proposed orders must be served on opposing counsel within 7 calendar days of the court's ruling.
All proposed orders must be filed with the Clerk and served on opposing counsel within 7 calendar days of the court’s ruling.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 14 | § 15.02 Orders and Judgments Prepared by Counsel
Parties using e-service must confirm that Interested Parties are enrolled to receive e-service; non-enrolled parties must be served by another approved method.
When relying on e-service as a means of providing Notice, parties are responsible for confirming whether an Interested Party is enrolled to receive e-service. Another approved method of Notice must be used for Interested Parties who are not enrolled to receive e-service.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 33
Notice must also be given to guardians or custodial parents of minor or incompetent Interested Parties and to conservators or attorneys in fact of adult Interested Parties.
If an Interested Party is a minor or incompetent person, Notice must also be given to the minor's legal guardian or guardians or custodial parent or parents and to the adult person's conservator or attorney in fact under a power of attorney.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 33
E-service is not effective for documents filed under seal; another approved method of Notice must be used for sealed filings.
E-service is not an effective method of Notice for documents filed under seal. If a party files a document under seal, another approved method of Notice must be used.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 33
Adversary Proceedings require Service of Process and are conducted under the Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure, the Tennessee Rules of Evidence, and the Local Rules.
Adversary Proceedings require Service of Process. The court conducts Adversary Proceedings under the Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure, the Tennessee Rules of Evidence, and these Local Rules.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 33
Petitions to probate in common form or administer intestate estates do not require Service of Process; petitions to probate in solemn form are Adversary Proceedings requiring Service of Process.
Petitions to probate testamentary instruments in common form or to administer intestate estates are not Adversary Proceedings and do not require Service of Process. Petitions to probate testamentary instruments in solemn form are Adversary Proceedings and require Service of Process.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 36 | § 39.03(e) Decedents' Estates
Petitioner must provide notice to the minor's closest relatives, caretakers, and any other interested parties.
The petitioner must provide Notice to the minor’s closest relatives, defined by statute, and the person or institution having care and custody of the minor, or with whom the minor lives. The petitioner must also provide Notice to any other Interested Parties. See Tenn. Code Ann. § 34-1-106(b).
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 37 | § 39.06 Guardianships
Petitioner must personally serve the minor unless a guardian ad litem is appointed and agrees to serve the petition.
The petitioner must effect Service of Process on the minor as required by statute unless a guardian ad litem is appointed and agrees to serve the petition on the respondent. See Tenn. Code Ann. § 34-1-106(a).
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 37 | § 39.06 Guardianships
Petitioner must provide notice to the respondent's closest relatives, caretakers, and any other interested parties.
The petitioner must provide Notice to the respondent’s closest relatives, defined by statute, and the person or institution having care and custody of the respondent, or with whom the respondent lives. The petitioner must also provide Notice to any other Interested Parties. See Tenn. Code Ann. § 34-1-106(b).
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 37 | § 39.05 Conservatorships and Expedited Limited Healthcare Fiduciaries
Petitioner must personally serve the respondent unless a guardian ad litem is appointed and agrees to serve the petition.
The petitioner must effect Service of Process on the respondent as required by statute unless a guardian ad litem is appointed and agrees to serve the petition on the respondent. See Tenn. Code Ann. § 34-1-106(a).
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 37 | § 39.05 Conservatorships and Expedited Limited Healthcare Fiduciaries
Petitioner must serve all interest-claimants and notify all interested parties, including the respondent, in a conservatorship real property sale.
The petitioner must effect Service of Process on anyone who claims an interest in the real property, and give Notice to all Interested Parties, including the respondent.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 38 | § 39.07 Sale of Real Property
In an adversary proceeding to sell real property from an insolvent intestate estate, the petitioner must serve all heirs and interest-claimants and notify all interested parties.
The petitioner must effect Service of Process on all heirs and anyone else who claims an interest in the real property, and give Notice to all Interested Parties.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 38 | § 39.07 Sale of Real Property
Petitioner must serve all interest-claimants and notify all interested parties in a guardianship real property sale.
The petitioner must effect Service of Process on anyone who claims an interest in the real property, and give Notice to all Interested Parties.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 38 | § 39.07 Sale of Real Property
In an adversary proceeding to sell real property from an insolvent testate estate, the petitioner must serve all beneficiaries and interest-claimants and notify all interested parties.
The petitioner must effect Service of Process on all beneficiaries of the real property under the instruments admitted to probate and anyone else who claims an interest in the real property, and give Notice to all Interested Parties.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 38 | § 39.07 Sale of Real Property
Notice to Interested Parties in probate matters may be given by mail, fax, e-service, email, or hand delivery.
When required by statute or these Rules, a party must give Notice to all Interested Parties by mailing, faxing, e-serving, emailing, or hand delivering the
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 32 | § 39.02 Definitions; Service of Process; Notice; Interested Parties
Service of process in probate matters must be effected by serving a petition and summons under Tenn. R. Civ. P. 4.
When required by statute or these Rules, a party must effect Service of Process by serving a petition and a summons under Tenn. R. Civ. P. 4.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 32 | § 39.02 Definitions; Service of Process; Notice; Interested Parties
Self-represented litigants and court-appointed fiduciary attorneys are not automatically enrolled for e-service; parties must take special care to ensure effective notice in such cases.
Self-represented litigants are not automatically enrolled to receive e-service. If the court appoints an attorney to serve in a fiduciary capacity, the attorney is not automatically enrolled to receive e-service. In cases involving a self-represented litigant or an attorney serving in a fiduciary capacity, parties should take special care to ensure that Notice is effective.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 33
The petitioner must bring to the court's attention the fact that an Interested Party under disability has no custodial parent, legal guardian, conservator, or attorney in fact.
If an Interested Party is under disability and has no custodial parent, legal guardian, conservator or attorney in fact under a power of attorney, the petitioner must bring that fact to the court's attention.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 33
Notice or Service of Process is not required for an Interested Party who is also a petitioner or who files a sworn waiver or consent.
It is not necessary to serve Notice or Service of Process on an Interested Party who is also a petitioner or who files a sworn waiver or consent.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 34
All petitions must be set for hearing under Local Rule § 39.11 unless review on record is requested, and the petitioner must serve Notice of the hearing on all Interested Parties.
All petitions must be set for hearing under Local Rule § 39.11, unless the attorney requests review on record. The petitioner must serve Notice of the hearing to all Interested Parties.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 36 | § 39.03(d) Decedents' Estates
Adversary proceedings require service of process and are governed by the Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure, Evidence, and local rules.
These proceedings require Service of Process and are governed by Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure, Evidence, and local rules.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | § 39.02 – Adversary Proceedings
Conservatorship and expedited limited healthcare fiduciary petitions must be verified; respondents must receive service of process unless a guardian ad litem serves the petition, and notice must go to closest relatives and other Interested Parties.
Verified petitions are required, with Service of Process on respondents unless a guardian ad litem serves the petition. Notice must be provided to closest relatives and other Interested Parties.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | § 39.05 Conservatorships and Expedited Limited Healthcare Fiduciaries
Notice must be given to all Interested Parties in proceedings concerning elective share, year’s support, homestead, and exempt property.
Notice is required to all Interested Parties.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | § 39.12 Elective Share, Year’s Support, Homestead, and Exempt Property
Petitions for ex parte orders of protection are filed with the Judicial Commissioner, forwarded to the clerk, and sent to the Sheriff for service of process.
Petitions for Ex Parte Orders of Protection are to be filed with the Judicial Commissioner in Night Court who shall issue the Ex Parte Order if the allegations meet statutory requirements. All applications shall be forwarded to the General Sessions Civil Clerk's office and sent to the Davidson County Sheriff's Office for service of process and setting for a hearing.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 7 | RULE 12. ORDERS OF PROTECTION
Before trial, all parties must exchange exhibits and prepare copies for the opposing party and the court.
Prior to trial all parties must exchange exhibits and prepare copies for the opposing party and the court.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 5 | RULE 9. NEGOTIATIONS, SETTLEMENTS, JUDGMENTS AND ORDERS - 9.01 Settlement Discussions
Filing Fees and Waivers
The sender must pay the clerk $5.00 plus $1.00 per page, including the cover sheet, for each fax filing.
The sender of the facsimile transmission shall pay to the trial court clerk a service charge for each facsimile filing in the amount of five dollars ($5.00) plus one dollar ($1.00) per page of the facsimile filing (including the cover sheet).
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 5A.04: FACSIMILE SERVICE CHARGE
The sender ordinarily pays the fax charge, which is not taxed as court costs; for a party proceeding on a pauper’s oath or that party’s attorney, timely payment is suspended and the charges are taxed as court costs.
The facsimile service charge shall be paid by the sender as provided in this rule and shall not be taxed as court costs, subject to the following exception. If the sender is either a party who has been allowed to proceed on a pauper’s oath or an attorney for such a party, timely payment of the facsimile service charge under this rule is suspended, and the charges shall be taxed as court costs.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 5A.04: FACSIMILE SERVICE CHARGE
The clerk contacts the filer by phone the next business day to collect the Facsimile Service Charge per TRCP 5A.04.
On the next business day, we will contact you by phone to assist you with paying the Facsimile Service Charge, pursuant to TRCP 5A.04.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1
All final judgments must tax court costs; the Clerk may refuse to enter agreed final judgments or settlement orders until court costs are paid.
All final judgments must tax court costs. The Clerk may refuse to enter a proposed agreed final judgment or compromise and settlement order until court costs in the case are paid.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 31 | § 33.03 Court Costs
When a satisfied judgment has unpaid court costs, the Clerk may apply to re-tax costs and must notify the parties of the application and hearing.
When a judgment has been satisfied but court costs have not been paid, the Clerk may apply to the court to re-tax costs. The Clerk must provide notice to the parties of the application and the date and time the court will consider it.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 31 | § 33.03 Court Costs
Special Masters are authorized to determine if a litigant qualifies to proceed as a pauper upon filing a Uniform Civil Affidavit of Indigency.
the undersigned authorize any of the appointed Circuit Court Special Masters to determine if a litigant qualifies to proceed as a pauper upon the filing of a Uniform Civil Affidavit of Indigency, pursuant to Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 29.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Confidential information must be redacted as required by Tennessee law.
Confidential information must be redacted as required by Tennessee law.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026
Page 1 | § 6.06 – Redactions
Filers should redact or omit confidential information (e.g., SSNs, taxpayer IDs, account numbers, driver license numbers) before filing.
When confidential information is not required by law to be filed, the filer should redact or leave out the information prior to filing the document(s). Items designated by the Tennessee Code Annotated as Confidential Information not open for public inspection are as follows: - Social Security Numbers - Taxpayer IDs - Employer and Taxpayer Account Numbers/PINs/Info - Credit/Debit Card Account Numbers/PIN/Authorization Numbers - Passport/Alien Registration Numbers - Biometric Data - Electronic Identification Numbers/Routing Codes - Driver License Numbers - VINs
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026
Page 3 | RULE 3. FILING AND SERVICE OF PAPERS
Filers must redact or omit confidential information (e.g., SSNs, account numbers, minors' names, birth dates) before filing documents.
When a filing includes information that is confidential by law, the filer should redact or omit the information before filing the document. Tennessee law designates the following items as Confidential Information not open for public inspection: (a) Social Security Numbers (b) Taxpayer IDs (c) Employer and Taxpayer Account Numbers/PINs (d) Credit and Debit Card Account Numbers/PINs/Authorization Numbers (e) Bank or other Financial Account Numbers (f) Passport/Alien Registration Numbers (g) Biometric Data (h) Electronic Identification Numbers/Routing Codes (i) Driver License Numbers (j) Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) (k) Minors’ names (use initials only) (l) Birth dates (omit month and day, include year only) (m) Confidential information related to trusts under Tenn. Code Ann. § 35-15-1106
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 9 | Rule 6
To seal documents, file redacted copies (if partial), do not file documents (if entire), deliver unredacted copies in a sealed envelope marked 'For In Camera Review' to court staff, and the Court will rule on the motion.
To file a motion to place documents under seal: (2) If the motion is to seal only portions of documents, file copies of the documents at issue with proposed redactions. (3) If the motion is to seal an entire document or documents, do not file the documents. (4) In either case, place complete unredacted copies of the documents in a sealed envelope, with a cover sheet listing the case style and number, and the filing attorney’s name and contact information, marked “For In Camera Review.” (5) Deliver the envelope to the court’s staff in Circuit Court or Calendar Clerk in Chancery Court. (6) The Court will hear the motion, review the documents, and enter an order either granting or denying the motion with further instructions.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 10 | § 7.02
Parties may file required personal information on a separate Statistical Sheet (or Spouse's Personal Information form in divorce cases), which is filed under seal.
When a statute, rule, or order requires a party to file personal information such as a social security number, address, birthdate, etc., the party may provide the information on a separate “Statistical Sheet,” or a “Spouse’s Personal Information” form in divorce cases. Completed Statistical Sheets and Spouse’s Personal Information Forms are filed under seal and not available for public inspection. These forms are available in the Clerks’ offices and on their websites.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 9 | § 6.07
Protected health information obtained in interviews may only be used in the pending litigation, and the interviewing defendant must return or destroy all such information, including copies, at the end of the litigation.
Dissemination of any protected health information obtained during the interviews is expressly limited to the litigation pending before the Court. The Defendant or Defendants who conducted the interview shall return to the healthcare provider or destroy any protected health information obtained in the course of any such interview, including all copies, at the end of the litigation.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 2 | Order Regarding Qualified Protective Orders
Sealing documents requires a procedure involving motions, redacted copies, and unredacted submissions for in-camera review.
Outlines required procedure for sealing documents, including motions, redacted copies, and unredacted submissions for in‑camera review.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | § 7.02 – Motions to File Under Seal
The Clerk may invest funds only under a specific order, and Statistical Sheets must be filed under seal.
Clerk may invest funds only with a specific order. Statistical Sheets filed under seal are required.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | § 39.17 Instructing Clerk to Invest Funds
Personal information may be submitted on sealed Statistical Sheets or Spouse’s Personal Information Forms, which are not open to public inspection.
Personal information may be submitted on sealed Statistical Sheets or Spouse’s Personal Information Forms, not open to public inspection.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | § 6.07 – Statistical Sheets
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Continuances are only granted to a date certain (no indefinite continuances), and cases must be disposed of within one year of the first setting unless good cause is shown.
Continuances will only be granted to a date certain. There will be no “indefinite” continuances. All cases MUST be disposed of within one (1) year of the date of the first setting of a case unless good cause is shown to the Court.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026
Page 4 | RULE 6. CONTINUANCES
Cases are tried on the set date unless good cause or party agreement warrants a continuance; the Court may liberally grant a continuance on the first setting in civil actions.
Cases shall be tried on the date they are set on the Court's docket unless, for good cause shown or upon agreement of the parties, the Court resets and continues the case for trial to a later date certain. In civil actions the Court may liberally grant a continuance on the first setting of a case.
Checked against the court's document on Sep 21, 2026
Page 4 | RULE 5. SETTING CASES
Trial continuances require court approval (leave of court) on motion or emergency request for good cause; certain circuit courts have their own governing rules.
Parties may not agree to continue a trial without court approval. In Chancery Court, a trial may only be continued by leave of court on motion for good cause. In 1st, 2nd, 5th, 6th, and 8th Circuit courts, a trial may only be continued with leave of the originating court, or by the Judge to whom the case is assigned for trial, by motion or by emergency request for good cause. Trial continuances in 3rd and 4th Circuit Courts are governed by those courts’ respective Chamber Rules. Trial continuances in 7th Circuit Court are governed by Local Rule § 39.11
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 27 | § 27.05 Continuing Civil Trials
The court will not continue a trial set by agreement or without objection due to incomplete discovery, depositions, or other trial preparations.
When a trial is set by agreement, or set by motion without objection, the court will not continue the trial because the parties did not complete discovery, or were not able to take a deposition, or did not complete any other trial preparations.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 27 | § 27.05 Continuing Civil Trials
A witness's absence justifies a continuance only if a subpoena was issued 10 calendar days before trial for a local witness or 14 calendar days before trial for an out-of-county witness.
A witness’ absence is not cause for a continuance unless a subpoena for the witness’ presence at trial was issued 10 calendar days before trial for a local witness, or 14 calendar days before trial for an out-of-county witness, as required under Local Rule § 28.02.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 27 | § 27.05 Continuing Civil Trials
Parties may not agree to modify a Scheduling Order without leave of court.
The parties may not agree to change the Scheduling Order without leave of court.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 28 | § 27.06 Administering and Assigning Circuit Court Cases for Jury Trials
If a jury trial does not begin on its set day, the case is continued to the next day until a court is available; if not begun by the end of the second day, counsel may apply to the Assignment Judge to reset the case.
If the trial of a case does not begin on the day it is set, the case will be continued to the next day until the court to which the case was assigned for trial, or another court, is available to conduct the trial. If the trial of a case has not begun by the end of the second day, counsel may apply to the Assignment Judge to reset the case.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.
Page 28 | § 27.06 Administering and Assigning Circuit Court Cases for Jury Trials
Chambers Communication Rules
Parties may receive probate-related updates by joining the court’s email list.
Probate‑related updates may be received by joining the court’s email list.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | § 39.18 Chamber Rules
The clerk need not notify the sender by fax or phone of receipt or incomplete receipt, without affecting other notice requirements imposed by law or court.
The clerk is not required to notify the sender by return facsimile transmission or voice telephone call that the facsimile document has been received by the clerk or that the facsimile document has not been received in its entirety. This provision shall not relieve the clerk of any notice requirements imposed by law or by the court.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 5A.02: FILING PROCEDURES