TCA 40-14-203
Scope of representation
FELONYFelony
What does this charge mean?
This statute requires court-appointed attorneys to represent defendants through trial and one level of appeal. Appointed lawyers must stick with their clients from the beginning of the case all the way through the initial appeal if there's a prison sentence, but they are not required to help with additional appeals to the Tennessee Supreme Court. This ensures defendants have legal help at the most critical stages of their case.
Penalty Details
ClassificationFelony
Penalty SummaryFelony
Any attorney appointed to represent any person under this part shall proceed to counsel with and represent the person at all stages of the proceedings before the court which appointed the attorney and also upon any appeal from the judgment of the court which imposes a prison sentence. Appointed counsel is required to represent the defendant only through the initial appellate review and is not required to pursue the matter through a second tier discretionary appeal by applying to the supreme court for writ of certiorari.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
FELONY
TCA Section40-14-203