Tennessee law
Domestic Violence Laws in Tennessee.
Tennessee provides civil Orders of Protection under Tenn. Code § 36-3-601 et seq. Ex parte Temporary Orders of Protection issue immediately; final Orders of Protection after hearing last up to 1 year (renewable). Tennessee criminalizes domestic assault under Tenn. Code § 39-13-111. Federal firearm dispossession under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(8) applies. Tennessee has specific strangulation enhancements and aggravated-domestic-assault provisions.
Last verified: 2026-04-17
State law
Key Tennessee Statutes
Authorizes ex parte Temporary Orders of Protection (immediate, up to 15 days) and final Orders of Protection (after hearing, up to 1 year, renewable). Protected: family or household members, persons with child in common, current or former dating partners.
Domestic assault is a Class A misdemeanor. Aggravated domestic assault (Class C felony) for serious bodily injury or weapon use. Enhanced penalties for strangulation.
Stalking is a Class A misdemeanor. Aggravated stalking (violation of protective order, weapon, minor victim) is Class E felony.
Reimburses victims for medical, counseling, and economic losses.
State law
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Tennessee.
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