TCA 39-11-102
Effect of criminal code
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What does this charge mean?
This statute establishes that conduct is only a crime if a law, city ordinance, or authorized rule specifically defines it as one; it also clarifies that criminal laws apply to most offenses in Tennessee and that being charged criminally doesn't prevent someone from also being sued for money damages in civil court for the same conduct.
Penalty Details
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Penalty SummaryClassification not specified
(a) Conduct does not constitute an offense unless it is defined as an offense by statute, municipal ordinance, or rule authorized by and lawfully adopted under a statute. (b) Parts 1-6 of this chapter apply to offenses defined by other laws, unless otherwise provided by law. (c) This title does not bar, suspend, or otherwise affect any right or liability to damages, penalty, forfeiture, or other remedy authorized by law to be recovered or enforced in a civil suit for conduct the criminal code defines as an offense, and the civil injury is not merged into the offense.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
PENDING
TCA Section39-11-102