Tennessee § 26-2-209 - Failure to appear or answer.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 26-2-209 — Failure to appear or answer., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 26-2-209. Failure to appear or answer.
The date garnishee's answer is received by the court clerk shall be noted on the docket book in the proper manner, whether or not the answer discloses any property subject to garnishment. If the garnishee fails to appear or answer, a conditional judgment may be entered against the garnishee for the plaintiff's debt, upon which a notice shall issue to the garnishee returnable at such time as the court may require, to show cause why judgment final should not be rendered against the garnishee. On failure of the garnishee to appear and show cause, the conditional judgment shall be made final, and execution awarded for the plaintiff's entire debt and costs. Acts 1978, ch. 915, § 28; T.C.A., § 26-238. Law Reviews. The Collection of Debts from Insolvent and Fully Mortgaged Debtors (John A. Walker, Jr.), 43 Tenn. L. Rev. 399.
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 26-2-209
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 26-2-209 cover?
Section 26-2-209 ("Failure to appear or answer.") 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 § 26-2-209?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 26-2-209" (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 § 26-2-209 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.