Tennessee § 36-3-108 - Forced marriage prohibited — Civil action.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 36-3-108 — Forced marriage prohibited — Civil action., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 36-3-108. Forced marriage prohibited — Civil action.
Marriage, at any age, that is entered into without valid, freely-given consent from both parties is contrary to the public policy of this state and shall be void and unenforceable in this state. A person who is forced, whether by violence, threats, or coercion, to marry another shall have a cause of action against any party who forced the person to marry. A claim under this section shall not be based on parental or familial guidance motivated by the person's best interest, which is expressed in a reasonable manner. Damages for a claim under this section shall include: Liquidated damages of two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($250,000); Reasonable attorneys' fees; and Court costs. Upon a finding of forced marriage, the court shall order the marriage in question void. Notwithstanding § 28-3-104, an action under this section must be commenced within ten (10) years after the cause of action accrues by solemnization of marriage. Acts 2018, ch. 1049, § 8. Code Commission Notes. Acts 2018, ch. 1049, § 8 purported to enact this section as § 36-3-201 ; however, this section was codified as § 36-3-108 by authority of the code commission. Compiler's Notes. Acts 2018, ch. 1049, § 9 provided that the act, which enacted this section, shall apply only to licenses issued for applications submitted on or after May 21, 2018. Effective Dates. Acts 2018, ch. 1049, § 9. May 21, 2018.
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 36-3-108
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 36-3-108 cover?
Section 36-3-108 ("Forced marriage prohibited — Civil action.") 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 § 36-3-108?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 36-3-108" (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 § 36-3-108 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.