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TCA 40-14-314

Recording equipment

FELONYFelony

What does this charge mean?

This statute is not a criminal offense—it is an administrative rule about court recording equipment. It allows the court system to purchase and use recording equipment (instead of court reporters) in districts where no qualified court reporter is available, but only after a judge certifies the need and the administrative director approves it. The state (not the court) owns and controls all equipment purchased. This is a procedural/administrative statute, not a criminal law.

Penalty Details

ClassificationFelony
Penalty SummaryFelony
The administrative director is authorized, upon a determination of a need therefor and upon certification of a judge that no qualified court reporter is available to record the proceedings in any court in the judge’s district, to purchase, out of money appropriated for that purpose, the recording equipment as may be necessary to carry out the purpose of this part and to formulate all necessary rules and regulations for its use, maintenance and replacement. Any certification by a judge and determination of need by the administrative director shall be reviewed not less than annually. If a qualified court reporter should become available to attend the court, it is the duty of the judge so to certify to the administrative director. Any recording equipment purchased under this section shall remain the property of the state of Tennessee and be under the direct control and supervision of the administrative director.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026

Quick Facts

FELONY
TCA Section40-14-314