Tennessee § 41-21-305 - Writ for appearance to testify in criminal case.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 41-21-305 — Writ for appearance to testify in criminal case., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 41-21-305. Writ for appearance to testify in criminal case.
Whenever the presiding judge of any court has reason to believe that the evidence of an inmate is necessary in any criminal proceedings and that other evidence cannot be obtained on behalf of the state or of the defendant, the presiding judge shall order a writ to be issued directing the warden of the penitentiary to bring the body of the inmate before the court, on a day to be named in the writ, to give testimony for the state or for the defendant in such case. Code 1858, § 5554; Shan., § 7576; Code 1932, § 12174; Acts 1965, ch. 81, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 41-606. Cross-References. Federal prisoner as witness in state criminal proceedings, § 40-17-212 . Prisoner as witness in criminal proceedings outside state in which incarcerated, § 40-17-211 .
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 41-21-305
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 41-21-305 cover?
Section 41-21-305 ("Writ for appearance to testify in criminal case.") 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 § 41-21-305?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 41-21-305" (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 § 41-21-305 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.