Tennessee § 16-15-713 - Attachments and contempts.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 16-15-713 — Attachments and contempts., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-15-713. Attachments and contempts.
Notwithstanding any provision of the law or private act to the contrary, courts of general sessions have the power to issue attachments and inflict punishments for contempts of court. The punishments for contempts shall be limited to: A fine not exceeding fifty dollars ($50.00) and imprisonment not exceeding ten (10) days if the judge of the general sessions court is licensed to practice law; and A fine not exceeding fifty dollars ($50.00) if the judge of the general sessions court is not licensed to practice law. Courts of general sessions have the power to punish for contempt persons who fail to appear for traffic violations. Acts 1985, ch. 324, § 2; 1986, ch. 484, § 1; 1987, ch. 12, § 1; 1987, ch. 34, § 1; 1988, ch. 656, § 1; 1990, ch. 647, §§ 1, 2; 1991, ch. 410, § 1; 1992, ch. 804, § 2; 1998, ch. 682, § 9. Cross-References. Punishment for contempt, § 29-9-103 . Attorney General Opinions. General sessions court contempt powers, OAG 89-08 (1/26/89). Limitation of contempt powers, OAG 89-15 (2/8/89).
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 16-15-713
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 16-15-713 cover?
Section 16-15-713 ("Attachments and contempts.") is part of the Tennessee Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of Tennessee. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Tennessee § 16-15-713?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 16-15-713" (Tennessee). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Tennessee law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Tennessee official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Tennessee attorney.
How does Tennessee § 16-15-713 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Tennessee can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Tennessee.