Tennessee § 39-14-107 - Claim of right.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-14-107 — Claim of right., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 39-14-107. Claim of right.
It is an affirmative defense to prosecution under §§ 39-14-103 , 39-14-104 and 39-14-106 that the person: Acted under an honest claim of right to the property or service involved; Acted in the honest belief that the person had the right to obtain or exercise control over the property or service as the person did; or Obtained or exercised control over property or service honestly believing that the owner, if present, would have consented. Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 1; 1990, ch. 1030, § 19. Sentencing Commission Comments. The 1990 amendment made this section an affirmative defense to the offenses of theft of property, theft of services and joyriding. Compiler's Notes. The sentencing commission terminated June 30, 1995. Sentencing Commission Comments have been retained, but do not reflect 1995 or subsequent legislation.
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 39-14-107
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-14-107 cover?
Section 39-14-107 ("Claim of right.") 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 § 39-14-107?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-14-107" (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 § 39-14-107 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.