Tennessee § 8-4-205 - Witness refusing to testify — Penalty.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 8-4-205 — Witness refusing to testify — Penalty., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-4-205. Witness refusing to testify — Penalty.
Any witness who appears as ordered, but upon appearance refuses to testify on matters not privileged by law, shall be punished as prescribed in § 8-4-204 . Acts 1963, ch. 128, § 5; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 8-420; T.C.A., § 8-416. Cross-References. Failure of witness to testify, determination of liability for state taxes and fees, § 67-1-1304 . Law Reviews. The Contempt Powers of Tennessee Courts (E. Michael Ellis), 37 Tenn. L. Rev. 538 (1971).
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 8-4-205
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 8-4-205 cover?
Section 8-4-205 ("Witness refusing to testify — Penalty.") 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 § 8-4-205?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 8-4-205" (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 § 8-4-205 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.