Tennessee § 65-3-120 - Civil and criminal suits.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 65-3-120 — Civil and criminal suits., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 65-3-120. Civil and criminal suits.
The circuit, chancery courts and courts of general sessions have jurisdiction of all suits of a civil nature arising under this chapter and chapter 5 of this title, according to the nature of the suit and the amount involved, and the circuit and criminal courts have jurisdiction of all criminal proceedings so arising. The district attorney general of the judicial district in which the suit is to be instituted shall prosecute suits so brought in the name of the state. The department of transportation shall report all such violations with the facts in its possession to such district attorney general and request the district attorney general to institute the proper proceedings. All suits between the state and any such company shall have precedence in all courts over all other suits pending therein, and the judges of the courts are directed to advance such suits on their dockets. Acts 1897, ch. 10, §§ 26, 27; Shan., §§ 3059a56, 3059a61, 3059a63, 3059a64; Code 1932, §§ 5432, 5437, 5439, 5440; impl. am. Acts 1979, ch. 68, § 3; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 65-325 — 65-328; Acts 1995, ch. 305, § 10. Cross-References. Suits for penalties, § 65-3-119 .
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 65-3-120
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 65-3-120 cover?
Section 65-3-120 ("Civil and criminal suits.") 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 § 65-3-120?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 65-3-120" (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 § 65-3-120 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.