Tennessee § 21-1-402 - Time decree becomes absolute without attachment.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 21-1-402 — Time decree becomes absolute without attachment., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 21-1-402. Time decree becomes absolute without attachment.
In all other cases, a decree against a defendant without personal service of process who does not appear to defend is not absolute for three (3) years from the decree, unless a copy of the decree is served upon the defendant, in which case it becomes absolute if the defendant fails to come forward and make defense within six (6) months after service. Code 1858, § 4379 (deriv. Acts 1787, ch. 22, § 1); Shan., § 6189; Code 1932, § 10460; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 21-511. Cross-References. Defendant failure to appear, contempt, §§ 21-1-301 — 21-1-305 . Textbooks. Tennessee Jurisprudence, 18 Tenn. Juris., Military, § 10; 25 Tenn. Juris., Wills, § 158. Cited: Slawson v. Denton, 48 S.W. 350, 1898 Tenn. Ch. App. LEXIS 88 (1898).
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 21-1-402
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 21-1-402 cover?
Section 21-1-402 ("Time decree becomes absolute without attachment.") 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 § 21-1-402?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 21-1-402" (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 § 21-1-402 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.