§ 17-5-304. Investigation and Dismissal of Groundless Complaint
If it is determined that the charges against a judge are frivolous or unfounded, or beyond the permissible scope of the board’s inquiry, the matter will be closed and all documents, records, and papers pertaining to the charges must be destroyed and the board’s docket must recite the investigation and dismissal of a groundless complaint.
§ 17-5-305. Immunity of Members of Board, Disciplinary Counsel, and Their Staff
Members of the board, the disciplinary counsel, and their staff are immune from civil suit for all conduct in the course of their official duties, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.
§ 17-5-306. Formal Charges — Answer — Failure to Appear — Stated Sanction
When, in the preliminary judgment of the investigative panel, there is probable cause to believe the judge under investigation is guilty of one (1) or more of the offenses under § 17-5-301(j), or is suffering from a disability as set forth in § 17-5-302, it is the duty of disciplinary counsel to give the judge […]
§ 17-5-101. Intent of Chapter
The regulation of judicial conduct is critical to preserving the integrity of the judiciary and enhancing public confidence in the judicial system. This chapter is intended to provide an orderly and efficient method for making inquiry into the physical, mental, and moral fitness of any Tennessee judge; the judge’s manner of performance of duty; and […]
§ 17-5-102. Applicability of Chapter
This chapter applies to: All Tennessee judges, including, but not limited to, appellate, trial, general sessions, probate, juvenile, and municipal judges, senior judges, claims commissioners, and all other judges sitting on or presiding over any court created by the general assembly or by the express or implied authority of the general assembly; All persons for […]
§ 17-5-103. Liberal Construction of Chapter
This chapter must be liberally construed to accomplish the declared purposes and intents set forth in this chapter.
§ 17-5-201. Members of Board of Judicial Conduct — Chair and Vice Chair — Investigative Panels and Hearing Panels — Promulgation of Rules
As of July 1, 2019, the existing membership of the Tennessee board of judicial conduct is vacated and reconstituted to consist of sixteen (16) members as follows: Two (2) current or former trial judges, to be appointed by the Tennessee trial judges association; One (1) current or former general sessions court judge, to be appointed […]