Tennessee § 20-12-129 - Next friend's oath.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 20-12-129 — Next friend's oath., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-12-129. Next friend's oath.
A person acting as the next friend of an infant may on like terms prosecute a suit or appeal for the infant in forma pauperis, upon taking and subscribing an oath that the infant, in whose behalf the action or suit is begun, is not able, and has not sufficient property, to bear the expenses of the action or suit about to be commenced, by filing an accompanying affidavit of indigency as prescribed by court rule and that the infant is justly entitled to the relief sought, to the best of the next friend's belief. Acts 1889, ch. 105, § 1; Shan., § 4930; mod. Code 1932, § 9082; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 20-1631; Acts 1995, ch. 242, § 3. Rule Reference. This section is referred to in Rule 29 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Tennessee. Textbooks. Gibson's Suits in Chancery (7th ed., Inman), § 124.
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 20-12-129
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 20-12-129 cover?
Section 20-12-129 ("Next friend's oath.") 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 § 20-12-129?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 20-12-129" (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 § 20-12-129 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.