Tennessee § 8-8-220 - Civil actions — Sheriff may appoint persons to serve process.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 8-8-220 — Civil actions — Sheriff may appoint persons to serve process., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-8-220. Civil actions — Sheriff may appoint persons to serve process.
In any civil action when the service of process is attempted to be served and is subsequently returned unserved, the sheriff of any county may appoint a person, who is a citizen of this state and who is of legal age, to serve such service of process within the prescribed limitations on service of process. Such appointment shall be made in writing and shall be filed with the court in such civil action. A person appointed to serve process as provided above shall be paid the appropriate fees, make an appropriate bond, assume such liability as the law requires, and file an affidavit with the court in such civil action indicating service of process was served, as is provided for appointments made under § 8-8-108 . Acts 1980, ch. 674, § 1.
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 8-8-220
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 8-8-220 cover?
Section 8-8-220 ("Civil actions — Sheriff may appoint persons to serve process.") 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 § 8-8-220?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 8-8-220" (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 § 8-8-220 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.