Research Notice
This guide summarizes publicly available legal information. Laws change over time, and legal outcomes depend heavily on both state law and your individual facts. Always verify current laws or consult a qualified attorney before making important legal decisions.
This is a placeholder for the state-specific small claims guide for Tennessee.
Tennessee General Sessions Court Facts
Maximum Claim Limit
25000
Estimated Filing Fee
Varies by County
Service Rules
In Tennessee, General Sessions Courts have civil jurisdiction up to $25,000 pursuant to Tenn. Code Ann. § 16-15-501. Claims exceeding $25,000 may be brought in Circuit Court. For security deposit disputes under URLTA (Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-301(d)), actions may be brought in General Sessions or Circuit Court, but tenant claims are limited to items specifically dissented from on the damage listing.
Appeals
General Sessions Court judgments may be appealed to Circuit Court for a de novo hearing within 10 days under Tennessee law.
Send a Tennessee Demand Letter First
Before filing in Tennessee, you should send a formal demand letter citing Tennessee statutes.
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