TCA 40-13-112
Disclosure of indictment before arrest
MISDEMEANOR AClass A Misdemeanor
Sentence enhancement may apply
What does this charge mean?
A judge, prosecutor, court clerk, court officer, or grand juror illegally reveals that someone has been indicted before that person is arrested or posts bail. The law allows police to release information about an indictment to help catch a suspect, and it does not apply to official court process (like arrest warrants). Violation is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and/or a fine up to $2,500.
Penalty Details
ClassificationClass A Misdemeanor
Maximum Jail11 months 29 days
Maximum Fine$2,500
Penalty SummaryClass A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500
(a) No judge, attorney, clerk, other officer of the court or grand juror shall disclose the fact of any indictment found until the defendant has been arrested or given bail for appearance to answer the indictment; however, nothing in this section shall preclude law enforcement from releasing information contained within the indictment or the fact of the indictment for the purpose of apprehending the subject of the indictment. (b) A violation of subsection (a) is a Class A misdemeanor punishable, on conviction, as a Class A misdemeanor. (c) This section does not apply to any disclosure by the issuance of process.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
MISDEMEANOR A
TCA Section40-13-112
Max Jail11 months 29 days
Max Fine$2,500