Tennessee § 4-21-1003 - Immunity from SLAPP suits — Exceptions — Costs.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 4-21-1003 — Immunity from SLAPP suits — Exceptions — Costs., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4-21-1003. Immunity from SLAPP suits — Exceptions — Costs.
Any person who in furtherance of such person's right of free speech or petition under the Tennessee or United States Constitution in connection with a public or governmental issue communicates information regarding another person or entity to any agency of the federal, state or local government regarding a matter of concern to that agency shall be immune from civil liability on claims based upon the communication to the agency. The immunity conferred by this section shall not attach if the person communicating such information: Knew the information to be false; Communicated information in reckless disregard of its falsity; or Acted negligently in failing to ascertain the falsity of the information if such information pertains to a person or entity other than a public figure. A person prevailing upon the defense of immunity provided for in this section shall be entitled to recover costs and reasonable attorneys' fees incurred in establishing the defense. Acts 1997, ch. 403, § 3.
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 4-21-1003
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 4-21-1003 cover?
Section 4-21-1003 ("Immunity from SLAPP suits — Exceptions — Costs.") 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 § 4-21-1003?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 4-21-1003" (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 § 4-21-1003 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.