Tennessee § 20-2-111 - Returns made with ink — Penalty for violation.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 20-2-111 — Returns made with ink — Penalty for violation., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-2-111. Returns made with ink — Penalty for violation.
Sheriffs, constables and all officers are required to make their returns upon all processes issued to them with pen and ink or some other nonerasable material or fluid; but the failure of the officer to make the officer's return as required shall in no case vitiate the return. Any officer violating this section commits a Class A misdemeanor, and is further liable in damages to any person or persons aggrieved by the violation. Acts 1889, ch. 51, §§ 1, 2; Shan., §§ 4537, 4538; mod. Code 1932, §§ 8664, 8665; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 20-216; Acts 1989, ch. 591, §§ 1, 6. Code Commission Notes. The misdemeanor in this section has been designated as a Class A misdemeanor by authority of § 40-35-110 , which provides that an offense designated a misdemeanor without specification as to category is a Class A misdemeanor. See also § 39-11-114 . Cross-References. Penalty for Class A misdemeanor, § 40-35-111 . Powers of attorney to serve subpoenas, § 23-2-105 . Textbooks. Tennessee Criminal Practice and Procedure (Raybin), § 23.13. Collateral References. Civil liability of one making false or fraudulent return of process. 31 A.L.R.3d 1393.
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 20-2-111
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 20-2-111 cover?
Section 20-2-111 ("Returns made with ink — Penalty for violation.") 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 § 20-2-111?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 20-2-111" (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 § 20-2-111 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.