Tennessee § 39-13-302 - False imprisonment.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-13-302 — False imprisonment., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 39-13-302. False imprisonment.
A person commits the offense of false imprisonment who knowingly removes or confines another unlawfully so as to interfere substantially with the other's liberty. False imprisonment is a Class A misdemeanor. Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 1; T.C.A., § 39-13-303 ; Acts 1990, ch. 982, § 1. Sentencing Commission Comments. This section codifies the Tennessee common law on false imprisonment. Derived from Model Penal Code § 212.3, it broadly addresses any situation where there is an interference with another's liberty. False imprisonment is used as the basic offense for the kidnapping statutes. The specific situation in which a relative abducts a child or incompetent person after an award of custody to another is now addressed in § 39-13-306 . Compiler's Notes. Former § 39-13-302 was transferred to § 39-13-302 in 1990. The sentencing commission terminated June 30, 1995. Sentencing Commission Comments have been retained, but do not reflect 1995 or subsequent legislation. Cross-References. Culpability, title 39, ch. 11, part 3. Kidnapping, § 39-13-303 et seq. Penalty for Class A misdemeanor, § 40-35-111 . Law Reviews. Two Crimes For The Price of One: The Problem With Kidnapping Statutes in Tennessee and Beyond (Melanie A. Prince), 76 Tenn. L. Rev. 789 (2009).
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 39-13-302
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-13-302 cover?
Section 39-13-302 ("False imprisonment.") 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 § 39-13-302?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-13-302" (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 § 39-13-302 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.