News

Commission Accepting Applications for Vacancy in the 26th Judicial District Chancery Court

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:53:58 +0000

04/21/26

The Trial Court Vacancy Commission is currently accepting applications to fill the vacancy in the 26th Judicial District Chancery Court following the elevation of the Honorable Steven W. Maroney to the appellate bench.

The 26th Judicial District covers Chester, Henderson, and Madison counties. Applicants must be an attorney licensed in Tennessee who is at least 30 years of age, a resident of the state for five years, and must reside in the Judicial District.

The Commission is committed to encouraging a diverse judiciary and welcomes all qualified attorneys to apply. The public hearing for this position will be held Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 9 a.m. CDT.

For an applicant to be considered for the judicial vacancy, the Administrative Office of the Courts must receive a completed application by 12 p.m. CDT on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

The application and instructions are available at http://www.tncourts.gov/administration/judicial-resources.

A completed application includes: (1) the original signed (unbound) application; and (2) a digital copy of the application.

The Commission encourages applicants to submit applications as soon as possible and communicate with the Administrative Office of the Courts to schedule hand-delivery or provide delivery tracking information for the original application to help ensure timely receipt by the deadline.

For additional information, please contact John Jefferson, assistant general counsel, at john.jefferson@tncourts.gov or (615) 241-2687.

Commission Accepting Applications for First Judicial District Criminal Court

Samantha.Fisher@tncourts.gov — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 13:29:16 +0000

04/15/26

Nashville, Tenn. - The Trial Court Vacancy Commission is currently accepting applications to fill the vacancy in the First Judicial District Criminal Court following the appointment of the Honorable Stacy Street to the appellate bench. The First Judicial District covers Carter, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties.

Applicants must be an attorney licensed in Tennessee who is at least 30 years of age, a resident of the state for five years, and must reside in the Judicial District.

The Commission is committed to encouraging a diverse judiciary and welcomes all qualified attorneys to apply. The public hearing for this position will be held Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 9 a.m. EDT at the George P. Jaynes Justice Center, 108 West Jackson Boulevard, Jonesborough, TN 37659.

For an applicant to be considered for the judicial vacancy, the Administrative Office of the Courts must receive a completed application by 12 p.m. CDT on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. The application and instructions are available at https://www.tncourts.gov/administration/judicial-resources

A completed application includes: (1) the original signed (unbound) application; and (2) a digital copy of the application. The Commission encourages applicants to submit applications as soon as possible and communicate with the Administrative Office of the Courts to schedule hand-delivery or provide delivery tracking information for the original application to help ensure timely receipt by the deadline.

Any member of the public may attend the public hearing to express, orally or in writing, objections concerning applicant(s) for the judicial vacancy.

If you require an accommodation and/or have special needs because of a qualified disability, have questions about the Commission, or need to schedule hand-delivery or provide delivery tracking information for an application, please contact John Jefferson at the Administrative Office of the Courts at John.Jefferson@tncourts.gov or (615) 741-2687.

Tennessee Supreme Court Disbars Knox County Attorney

Samantha.Fisher@tncourts.gov — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:15:59 +0000

04/14/26

Nashville, Tenn. - Today the Tennessee Supreme Court upheld the decision of a Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility hearing panel to disbar a Knox County attorney.

Beginning in 2019, the Board received several complaints about attorney Elliott J. Schuchardt, alleging several instances of professional misconduct across multiple cases. Some of the misconduct involved Mr. Schuchardt’s lawyering, such as his failure to comply with local rules and submission of legally deficient filings. In another case, Mr. Schuchardt wrongfully refused to provide a former client with his client file. In the process of disputing his client’s request, Mr. Schuchardt falsely claimed that he had discussed his decision to retain the documents with the Board of Professional Responsibility.

In addition to the misconduct in his case management, Mr. Schuchardt also made several threats to fellow members of the legal community. Mr. Schuchardt directed several threats to another attorney about that attorney’s client, in an attempt to gain leverage in one of Mr. Schuchardt’s pending cases. Additionally, Mr. Schuchardt made several threats to counsel for the Board of Professional Responsibility.

A three-attorney panel reviewed the complaints in this case and conducted a hearing. Based on the evidence, the panel recommended disbarment. Mr. Schuchardt appealed to the Knox County Chancery Court, which affirmed.

Mr. Schuchardt then appealed to the Tennessee Supreme Court, challenging the constitutionality of Tennessee’s attorney-discipline system and the evidence supporting his disbarment. The Court affirmed, concluding that lower courts’ decisions were supported by substantial and material evidence. The Court also reiterated that Tennessee’s system of attorney-discipline comports with constitutional principles.

To read the Court’s opinion in Schuchardt v. Board of Professional Responsibility, authored by Justice Mary L. Wagner, go to the opinions section of TNCourts.gov.

Court of Criminal Appeals at the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:53:52 +0000

04/13/26

Court of Criminal Appeals Judges John W. Campbell, Camille R. McMullen and Robert W. Wedemeyer

The Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals heard oral arguments April 7-8 at the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law. Judges John W. Campbell, Camille R. McMullen and Robert W. Wedemeyer sat in for the court. The experience was especially poignant for Judge Wedemeyer.

“This year marks 50 years since my graduation from the Law School, and it was an honor to be back and to talk to students, faculty, and Dean Jim Strickland. Judge Campbell and I are both Memphis Law grads and we shared some of our law school memories with the students,” said Judge Wedemeyer.

The Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law hosted oral argument for the Criminal Court of Appeals while the Jackson courthouse undergoes renovations. The change of venue provided a unique opportunity for law students to observe the appeals process and ask questions of both the attorneys and the judges.

“The Law School building is beautiful, and the students seemed to enjoy seeing the appellate process firsthand,” continued Judge Wedemeyer. “I will always be grateful to the University of Memphis Law School for the education I received there and the many doors that education opened for me during the last 50 years!”

The Administrative Office of the Courts livestreamed the cases at https://www.youtube.com/@TNCourts.

Tennessee Supreme Court Rejects Territorial Jurisdiction Challenge to Kentucky Car Salesman’s Theft Conviction

Samantha.Fisher@tncourts.gov — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:26:47 +0000

04/13/26

Nashville, Tenn. - Today, the Tennessee Supreme Court issued an opinion in State of Tennessee v. Ronald Matthew Lacy, affirming Lacy’s conviction for theft of property over $60,000.

In 2015, Lacy, a luxury car broker in Kentucky, persuaded Christopher Dyer, the owner of a car dealership in Lenoir City, Tennessee, to wire him funds for a Mercedes. The deal was negotiated through text messages and emails that Lacy sent from Kentucky. Lacy represented that his company had the right to sell the Mercedes to Dyer, but neither Lacy nor his company ever owned the Mercedes. And Lacy never delivered the Mercedes to Dyer or returned Dyer’s money.

A Loudon County jury convicted Lacy of theft. Lacy moved for a new trial, arguing that Tennessee lacked territorial jurisdiction and that the State failed to prove that he obtained Dyer’s money without Dyer’s effective consent. The trial court rejected those arguments. The Court of Criminal Appeals affirmed Lacy’s conviction. The Tennessee Supreme Court granted Lacy’s permission to appeal from that decision.

The Tennessee Supreme Court affirmed Lacy’s conviction.
First, the Court held that Tennessee had statutory territorial jurisdiction to convict Lacy of theft. Territorial jurisdiction concerns a State’s authority to punish criminal conduct that occurs within its borders. In Tennessee, a statute grants territorial jurisdiction over an out-of-state defendant who consummates a crime in Tennessee using electronic means. The Court concluded that this statute provided territorial jurisdiction in Lacy’s case because Lacy used electronic means—text messages and emails—to complete the theft offense by persuading Dyer to send him money.

Second, the Court held that the evidence presented at trial was sufficient to support Lacy’s theft conviction because it established that Lacy obtained Dyer’s money without Dyer’s effective consent. By statute, consent is ineffective if it is induced through deception. The Court concluded that the evidence in this case was sufficient to prove that Lacy induced Dyer to send him money by falsely claiming that he had the right to sell the car.

To read the Court’s opinion, authored by Justice Sarah K. Campbell, please visit the opinions section of TNCourts.gov.

Tennessee Lawyers Assistance Program Executive Director Buddy Stockwell Retires

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:43:18 +0000

04/13/26

Tennessee Lawyers Assistance Program (TLAP) Executive Director Buddy Stockwell

The Tennessee Lawyers Assistance Program (TLAP) is a free, confidential assistance program providing help to members of the legal community who are struggling with substance abuse, stress or emotional health issues. In 2020, when TLAP itself was struggling, Executive Director Buddy Stockwell was hand-picked by the Tennessee Supreme Court to transform it into the sustainable program it is today.

“There’s been such a transition over the last 50 years,” said Stockwell. “Back in the early days, alcoholism was not seen as a treatable disease, and having a severe alcohol problem could be a career ending event. There wasn’t a way back. All of this is new, to be able to effectively fight the disease, establish reliable recovery, and be safe to practice again. Now, we have a detailed set of clinical principles and protocols in place that are hinged to national best practices to support l icensed professionals.”

Stockwell is 43 years into his own recovery from alcoholism and drug addiction. In 1982, at 27 years old, he completed treatment for alcoholism. Once sober, he completed college and law school and was admitted to the Louisiana Bar in 1993. His active involvement in Lawyers Assistance Programs spans 33 years.

“When I applied to the Louisiana Bar, I was able to demonstrate that I was in solid recovery from alcoholism and safe to practice law. I know what it feels like to be in a position where everything is on the line and your mental health is being questioned,” he said.

After six years as TLAP’s executive director, Stockwell is now preparing to pass the baton.

“It’s been the most rewarding and challenging job of my professional career,” said Stockwell. “It’s been a wonderful experience, and I think the thing I appreciate most about it, and why I came to Tennessee in the first place, is because I knew that the Tennessee Supreme Court provided strong support for its lawyers assistance program.”

The Tennessee Supreme Court established TLAP under Rule 33, adopted on January 7, 1999. TLAP serves to protect the public, provide confidential mental health help to members of the legal community, and educate legal professionals about the mental health issues that lawyers often encounter.

“Twenty-five percent of our cases have some regulatory involvement,” said Stockwell. “The other 75% are confidential as a matter of law and we can help people who have developed mental health issues get back on their feet before health issues become disciplinary issues. When someone confidentially reaches out early to TLAP for help, everyone wins.”

Over the years, the program has expanded from assistance with alcoholism and drug use, to all other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar issues, burnout and compassion fatigue.

“The profession with all its pressures and the speed of information these days, and just how tough it can be to practice law, it has ushered in a new era for LAPs. Substance use disorder cases are still significant, but TLAP is comprehensive now. We have a professional clinical staff that can help address any type of mental health issue,” said Stockwell. “It’s become very complex, but our program works really well, and we cover all of those bases.”

“As our Executive Director, he has transformed our program from a sinking ship to the grandest vessel,” said Judge Michael Spitzer, Commission Chairman TLAP. “Today, the Tennessee Lawyers Assistance Program is known nationally as a gold standard, top-tier program, and its stability is without question.”

Stockwell describes himself and his wife as hardworking and fastidious. They are U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captains and seasoned ocean mariners who sailed the seas full-time from 2005 to 2010, covering over 19,000 miles. “It demands dedication, attention to detail and preparedness.”

“I had an old 30-foot Catalina sailboat in Louisiana that I sold when I came up to Tennessee,” said Stockwell. “I already bought another one to enjoy during retirement. You’ll never find a happier Buddy Stockwell than with a tool bag in one hand and a tiller in the other hand, and an old sailboat to sail around and work on.”

Stockwell retires on April 15, 2026.

Tennessee Supreme Court Issues Warning About Ticket Scam

Samantha.Fisher@tncourts.gov — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 21:27:04 +0000

04/06/26

Nashville, Tenn. – The Tennessee Supreme Court and the Administrative Office of the Courts are warning Tennesseans about a text and email phishing scam that references an outstanding parking violation/toll violation and appears to be from the Tennessee Supreme Court.

The message includes a link and/or QR code that leads to a fake website.

“We want everyone know that these text messages and emails are not coming from the Tennessee Supreme Court,” said Chief Justice Jeff Bivins. “Please know that our state courts do not send text messages or emails out regarding past due tickets. This is a scam.”

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation recommends taking the following steps if you receive one of these scam messages:

Ignore it. Do not respond to the message, click any links, or scan the QR code.
Report it here: Home Page - Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
Delete it.

Phishing scams are fraudulent attempts by cybercriminals to steal sensitive information—such as login credentials, credit card numbers, or personal data—by masquerading as trustworthy entities via email, text, or phone calls. These scams often create a false sense of urgency, urging victims to click malicious links or open infected attachments.

Learn more about these types of scams and how to protect yourself here: Scams, Schemes & Swindles.

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TN Supreme Court Names Members of Appointed Counsel Commission

Samantha.Fisher@tncourts.gov — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 17:18:33 +0000

04/02/26

Nashville, Tenn. - The Tennessee Supreme Court has named nine members to the new Office of the Appointed Counsel Commission (OACC). Created under Tenn. Sup. Ct. R. 56. The Commission and its Executive Director are tasked with ensuring effective legal representation by appointed private counsel for individuals who cannot afford an attorney in criminal defense and child welfare cases.

“The Court appreciates the members’ willingness to serve at this early stage,” said Chief Justice Jeff Bivins. “Assisting in establishing the Appointed Counsel Commission will require significant time and commitment.”

The Commission is composed of six practicing attorneys and three judges, representing Tennessee's Eastern, Middle, and Western Grand Divisions: Loretta Cravens (Attorney, Knoxville), Joshua Hedrick (Attorney, Knoxville), Judge Lisa Rice (Criminal Court Judge, 1st Judicial District), Emily Wright (Attorney, Livingston), David Grimmett (Attorney, Franklin), Judge Jim Todd (Criminal Court Judge, 20th Judicial District), Mark Messler (Attorney, Memphis), Lowe Finney (Attorney, Martin), and Magistrate Judge Terre Fratesi (Shelby County Juvenile Court, retired).

“We are grateful for this group of legal professionals who care deeply about improving indigent representation and are committed to serving in this new capacity,” said Justice Mary Wagner, the Court’s liaison to the Commission.

Joe Byrd, Executive Director of the Office of the Appointed Counsel Commission, added, “I am grateful for the opportunity to work with these dedicated Commission members and thank the Court for selecting such quality individuals.”

You can learn more about the OACC here.

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Tennessee Supreme Court to Hear Oral Arguments for April Docket at Union University

Samantha.Fisher@tncourts.gov — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:02:32 +0000

04/01/26

Nashville, Tenn. – The Tennessee Supreme Court will hear oral arguments for its April docket at Union University in Jackson, Tennessee. Oral arguments will be heard at the Harvey Auditorium in the Barefoot Student Union Building and will also be accessible by livestream: https://www.youtube.com/@TNCourts.

Beginning at 9:00 am CDT, April 8, 2026, the Court will hear the following three cases:

• April Hawthorne v. Morgan & Morgan Nashville, PLLC et al. – The law firm of Morgan & Morgan led a large class action lawsuit against a group of funeral homes that were alleged to have wrongfully abandoned human remains at the Galilee Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Bartlett, Tennessee between 2011 and 2014. The majority of funeral homes settled before trial. At trial, Morgan & Morgan obtained a favorable jury verdict as to the remaining funeral homes. However, the amount awarded by the jury led the plaintiffs to appeal. The parties ultimately reached a settlement. Thereafter, one of the class members, April Hawthorne, filed a putative class action lawsuit against Morgan & Morgan alleging legal malpractice and breach of fiduciary duty. Ms. Hawthorne asserted that Morgan & Morgan failed to adequately negotiate with and accept reasonable settlement offers from the funeral homes involved in the trial, resulting in a smaller recovery for the class. The Shelby County Chancery Court found that the class proposed by Ms. Hawthorne satisfied the requirements for class certification detailed in Rule 23 of the Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure. That decision was subject to an immediate appeal, and the Court of Appeals affirmed the decision of the trial court. The Tennessee Supreme Court granted permission to appeal to consider the appropriate standard for reviewing a trial court’s decision to certify a class, the various requirements for class certification, and whether Ms. Hawthorne has standing to pursue claims on behalf of the proposed class.

• Brenda Sands v. Robert Williard et al. – In December 2019, Brenda Sands allegedly was injured when she tripped on a rise in the sidewalk in front of property owned by Robert and Theresa Williard in Germantown, Tennessee. Ms. Sands filed a negligence lawsuit against the Williards and the City of Germantown in November 2020. The City claimed that it was not served properly and later filed a motion for summary judgment seeking dismissal of the lawsuit based on the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations. In October 2022, while the City’s motion was pending, the Williards filed a motion to amend their answer to assert comparative fault against the City. Before either motion was decided, Ms. Sands moved to voluntarily dismiss the City from her lawsuit. In February 2023, the Shelby County Circuit Court granted both Ms. Sands’s motion to voluntarily dismiss the City and the Williards’ motion to amend their answer. Almost immediately thereafter, Ms. Sands filed an amended complaint that once again named the City as a defendant in the lawsuit. Ms. Sands relied on a statute, Tennessee Code Annotated section 20-1-119, that generally allows a plaintiff a certain period of time within which to add a defendant to an existing lawsuit after a defendant to that lawsuit asserts the comparative fault of that non-party. The City moved to dismiss, arguing that section 20-1-119 did not permit Ms. Sands to bring the City back into the lawsuit. The trial court denied the City’s motion to dismiss, and the Court of Appeals agreed that section 20-1-119 allowed Ms. Sands to add the City to her lawsuit under the circumstances of this case. The Tennessee Supreme Court granted the City’s application for permission to appeal to determine the correct interpretation of section 20-1-119.

• City of Milan, Tennessee et al. v. Frederick H. Agee. – In 2021, District Attorney General Frederick Agee requested that the cities of Milan and Trenton, Tennessee provide prosecuting personnel or equivalent funding to support his office’s handling of state criminal cases in their municipal courts. When the cities refused, General Agee indicated that his office would no longer prosecute state criminal cases in their municipal courts. The cities brought a declaratory judgment action seeking to require General Agee’s office to prosecute the offenses. Relying principally on Tennessee Code Annotated section 8-7-103, General Agee argued that a local district attorney general is required to prosecute cases in municipal court only when “the municipality provides sufficient personnel to the district attorney general for that purpose.” The Gibson County Chancery Court, however, found that the cities are not required to provide prosecuting personnel or equivalent funds, and the Court of Appeals affirmed. The Tennessee Supreme Court granted permission to appeal to consider whether section 8-7-103 or any other provision of Tennessee law requires a local district attorney general to prosecute state criminal cases in municipal court.

Media planning to attend oral arguments should review Supreme Court Rule 30 media guidelines and contact Communications Director Samantha Fisher by email: samantha.fisher@tncourts.gov

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Court of Criminal Appeals at the University of Tennessee Winston College of Law

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 15:05:56 +0000

03/27/26

Court of Criminal Appeals Judges Timothy L. Easter, J. Ross Dyer, and Tom Greenholtz

On March 24, 2026, the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals heard oral arguments for its Knoxville docket at the University of Tennessee Winston College of Law. Judges Timothy L. Easter, J. Ross Dyer, and Tom Greenholtz, who is a UT Winston Law graduate, sat in for the court.

“The law students can actually see a real-life case being argued with real-life names, real-life people, real-life lawyers. We just think it gives flesh and bones to an otherwise stale opinion they might read,” said Judge Tim Easter. “For us, we get to see the future of the bar and these students and it’s a shot in the arm for us to do that.”

The event was coordinated by Tammy Rooney and Drake Watkins at Winston Law along with staff attorney Vanessa Johnson and senior judicial law clerk Addie Nester at the Court of Criminal Appeals.

Professor Danny Schaffzin, Director for the Center for Advocacy and Dispute Resolution, hosted a luncheon for the judges and students who participated in the school’s advocacy programs. At the conclusion of the session, students, the panel, and attorneys for the parties participated in a question-and-answer-session regarding appellate advocacy.

“There is no opportunity quite like this one in my experience both in law school and a practicing attorney,” said Professor Schaffzin. “Again, you interact with judges only in courthouses. That’s the way it is. To get to know judges, that personal interaction, learning not just about what the court does but how judges think, what their day to day is like, their education, their suggestions for training and what makes great advocacy and how lawyers need to be professionals. There’s no better way than to hear it from the judges they are going to appear before in their careers and it really is a second-to-one opportunity. “

The Administrative Office of the Courts livestreamed the cases at https:/www.youtube.com/@TNCourts. The cases include: State v. Price, State v. James, State v. Simmons, and State v. Lacey.

Court of Criminal Appeals Eastern Section Judge Appointed by Governor Lee

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 19:01:26 +0000

03/26/26

Judge Stacy Street

Governor Bill Lee appointed Judge Stacy Street to the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals, Eastern Section.

Judge Street is currently serving as Criminal Court Judge in the First Judicial District. He earned his bachelor’s degree at East Tennessee State University and juris doctor at the University of Tennessee College of Law.

Judge Street’s appointment fills the vacancy created by Judge Kyle Hixson’s elevation to the Tennessee Supreme Court. This appointment is effective July 7, 2026, and subject to legislative confirmation.

Historic First for TN Court of Appeals

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:08:29 +0000

03/26/26

Court of Appeals Judges Kristi M. Davis, Carma Dennis McGee and Valerie L. Smith

The Tennessee Court of Appeals has 12 members who sit in panels of three every month across the state. On March 24 in Nashville, as court was called to order, a significant moment in the history of the COA took place.

“When I came on the court in 2019, I was the only female,” said Judge McGee. “Judge Davis came on the court in 2020, and then when Judge Smith came on the court last year, it’s the first time in recent history that we’ve had three female judges.”

There have been times in the past when the COA had three women judges across the western, middle and eastern sections of Tennessee. However, the opportunity for them to sit together didn’t happen because judicial travel was not the requirement it is today.

“My understanding is they did not have traveling judges assigned every month at that time and now traveling judges are assigned all the time,” said Judge McGee. “We find out a year in advance what months we will be going and sitting with other sections.”

Since Judge Davis was assigned to travel this month, and March is Women’s History Month, the judges coordinated a date that worked for all of them.

“I’m honored to witness Tennessee history in a panel of judges on our Court of Appeals composed entirely of women judges,” said Tennessee Supreme Court Justice Holly Kirby. “Judge McGee, Judge Davis, and Judge Smith are inspirational and show the progress of women in positions of great responsibility in our government.”

Justice Kirby was one of those early pioneers, often referred to as the “first” or the “only” woman throughout her legal and judicial careers.

“Thirty years ago, a panel like this wouldn’t have been possible; back in 1996, I was the only woman judge on the entire Court of Appeals, statewide,” said Justice Kirby. “Judges McGee, Davis, and Smith are the living embodiment of the strides women have made in the legal profession and in the judiciary. Much respect to all three of these accomplished leaders.”

“I think if you ask any of us, Judge Davis, Judge Smith or myself, we’re very proud to represent the females in the legal world and on this court, but we also see ourselves first as judges,” said Judge McGee.

Judge McGee hopes this historic milestone sends the message to girls that no profession is off limits.

“I think a lot of times, especially girls, are led to believe that if they want to have a family, if they want to have a home life, if they want to have a marriage, and if they want to do all the mom things, they can’t pursue a career,” said Judge McGee. “You don’t have to be held back just because you’re going to have a full plate. It’s ok. Go get your education and go do what you feel called to do, and don’t be afraid to go out there and do the hard things and to pursue careers that even 50 years ago might not have been realistic options.”

Commission Refers Third Judicial Court Vacancy to Governor

marc.kordalski@tncourts.gov — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 19:44:29 +0000

03/25/26

Nashville, Tenn. - The Trial Court Vacancy Commission began accepting applications to fill the vacancy in the Third Judicial District Circuit Court, which covers Greene, Hamblen, Hancock, and Hawkins counties, on March 9, 2026.

After the March 25, 2026 deadline, two candidates had applied, leaving the Commission unable to provide the governor with the names of three persons qualified to fill the vacancy in accordance with Tenn. Code Ann. § 17-4-308(h). Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 17-4-310(a), the governor may fill the vacancy with any person who is qualified to serve as a circuit court judge in the Third Judicial District. The Commission sent the two applications it did receive to the governor. This vacancy was created by the appointment of the Honorable William E. Phillips II to the Tennessee Court of Appeals.

To read the letter from the Trial Court Vacancy Commission to Governor Lee.

Applications:

Gibson County Safe Baby Court Holds First Graduation

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:53:15 +0000

03/17/26

First Graduation Held in Gibson County Juvenile Court Judge Mark Johnson's Safe Baby Court

Gibson County Safe Baby Court (SBC) held its first graduation ceremony on Friday, March 13, reuniting a mother with her four children.

“If I didn't have Safe Baby Court, I wouldn't have my babies back now,” said Stacey, a SBC graduate. “Thanks to all the support from Safe Baby and Recovery, I have a new life today. Without the programs, I would still be without my babies and struggling to understand what to do.”

In June 2025, Stacy’s four children were removed from her care. Her youngest was just two months old. Stacy was using drugs, which endangered their lives and contributed to the truancy of her older children.

“Stacy accepted our offer to give Safe Baby Court a try,” said Gibson County Juvenile Court Judge Mark Johnson. “Now, nine months later, all four children have been returned to her custody due to the remarkable progress she has made not only with the tools provided by Safe Baby Court, but also her willingness to navigate through Drug Recovery Court offered by General Sessions Judge Bradley Owens.”

Gibson County Juvenile Court implemented Safe Baby Court two years ago, becoming the third county in West Tennessee to do so.

“Safe Baby Court is not easy,” said Judge Johnson. “It is a long road for parents who have the willingness to make life better for their young children, but not always the ability to succeed without help. Stacy’s case is a perfect example of teamwork between two separate judges and courts.”

“I am grateful for a team of fantastic Department of Children’s Services (DCS) staff, Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)and Recovery Court personnel to walk alongside Stacey and her children,” said Rheannah Hollomon, SBC Coordinator. “We are happy to see the family reunified and continue to thrive.”

SBC assisted Stacey’s family during the reunification process by providing items such as beds, car seats, monetary deposits for a home, and gas for her car which allowed her to visit her children.

“Safe Baby Court helped me have a better relationship with DCS and the foster families,” said Stacey. “It also helped support me through the legal process of it all. The extra meetings each month were also helpful.”

“Stacy’s case is a perfect example of teamwork between two separate judges and courts,” said Judge Owens. “Our safe baby coordinator, the DCS case workers, CASA, the attorneys involved, the counselors, and the personnel and staff at the general sessions court all contributed countless hours in giving Stacy not only the ability, but the incentive to become a better parent and person.”

Judge Vicki Snyder Receives Jim Pryor Child Advocacy Award

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:21:06 +0000

03/16/26

Retired Henry County General Sessions and Juvenile Court Judge Vicki S. Snyder Received the Jim Pryor Award for Child Advocacy.

Retired Henry County General Sessions and Juvenile Court Judge Vicki S. Snyder is the 2026 recipient of the Jim Pryor Award for Child Advocacy. She accepted the award from the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth (TCCY) at their 2026 Children’s Advocacy Days held at Trevecca Nazarene University on March 10.

“I’m humbled and honored by the award,” said Judge Snyder. A child should be safe, and every child deserves to be somebody’s someone and not be alone. It is in my heart. It’s my purpose.”

Tennessee State Senator Ferrell Haile introduced Judge Snyder as a strong advocate for children.

“She played a key role in statewide juvenile justice efforts, serving in leadership positions in the Tennessee Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, and contributed to major task forces focused on juvenile court reform,” said Senator Haile. “A champion for children and families, she’s helped develop Henry County’s Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program and was one of the first juvenile court judges in the Tennessee to establish a Safe Baby Court.”

Hamilton County Juvenile Court Judge Rob Philyaw presented Judge Snyder with the award, adding she has been steadfast in her pursuit of excellence in our legal system.

“Judge Snyder’s always been a good friend and source of support for me and other judges, and other attorneys,” said Judge Philyaw. “She’s gracious with her time and has acquitted herself honorably and well on the bench. I count her as a friend as well as a colleague.”

As for post-retirement work in child advocacy, Judge Snyder said her work will continue in a different way.

“I have been blessed by being able to work with wonderful people who work in different capacities of child advocacy,” said Judge Snyder. “It’s been my privilege and a real privilege to get the Jim Pryor Award, a champion of child advocacy and safety.”

About the Jim Pryor Award Child Advocacy Award:

The Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth (TCCY) awarded its first Jim Pryor Child Advocacy Award posthumously to Jim Pryor in March 1995. 1994who passed away in May of 1994, was a member of TCCY and an outstanding advocate for children. He was an attorney, a former assistant district attorney, a member of the state Child Sexual Abuse Task Force, and an active member of the Northeast Regional Council on Children and Youth.

Commission Accepting Applications for Third Judicial District Circuit Court

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 19:19:36 +0000

03/09/26

The Trial Court Vacancy Commission is currently accepting applications to fill the vacancy in the Third Judicial District Circuit Court following the appointment of the Honorable William E. Phillips II to the Tennessee Court of Appeals. The Third Judicial District covers Greene, Hamblen, Hancock, and Hawkins counties.

Applicants must be an attorney licensed in Tennessee who is at least 30 years of age, a resident of the state for five years, and must reside in the Judicial District.

The Commission is committed to encouraging a diverse judiciary and welcomes all qualified attorneys to apply. The public hearing for this position will be held Monday, April 27, 2026, at 9 a.m. ED at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology, 821 W. Louise Avenue, Morristown, TN 37813.

For an applicant to be considered for the judicial vacancy, the Administrative Office of the Courts must receive a completed application by 12 p.m. CDT on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. The application and instructions are available at http://www.tncourts.gov/administration/judicial-resources. A completed application includes: (1) the original signed (unbound) application; and (2) a digital copy of the application. The Commission encourages applicants to submit applications as soon as possible and communicate with the Administrative Office of the Courts to schedule hand-delivery or provide delivery tracking information for the original application to help ensure timely receipt by the deadline.

Any member of the public may attend the public hearing to express, orally or in writing, objections concerning applicant(s) for the judicial vacancy.

Council Sends Three Names to Governor for Upcoming Court of Criminal Appeals Eastern Section Vacancy

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:06:38 +0000

03/05/26

The Governor’s Council for Judicial Appointments met in Knoxville today to select nominees for the Court of Criminal Appeals Eastern Section vacancy following Justice Kyle Hixson’s elevation to the Tennessee Supreme Court. After holding a public hearing and conducting public interviews, the Council selected the following nominees:

Paul Othneil Moyle IV

Stacy Lee Street

Brennan Maureen Wingerter

To view the nominees’ applications, click here.

Tennessee Supreme Court Holds Grundy County Resolution Violates Tennessee's County Zoning Act

Samantha.Fisher@tncourts.gov — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:22:18 +0000

02/25/26

In an opinion released today, the Tennessee Supreme Court held that a Grundy County resolution regulating the location of quarries is effectively a zoning ordinance that was enacted in violation of Tennessee’s County Zoning Act (“CZA”). The CZA requires counties to follow certain procedural requirements when passing a zoning ordinance, such as holding a public hearing and submitting the ordinance to the county’s regional planning commission. An ordinance is characterized as zoning when the regulation closely resembles comprehensive zoning plans and when the ordinance substantially affects the use of property. In this case, Grundy County passed Resolution 19-5-20c without complying with the CZA.

Tinsley Properties, LLC and Tinsley Sand & Gravel, LLC (“Tinsley”) own and operate a quarry in Grundy County, Tennessee. The mayor of Grundy County informed Tinsley that the quarry was in violation of Resolution 19-5-20c, which requires quarries to be located more than 5,000 feet away from specified types of establishments. The mayor thus requested that Tinsley terminate all quarrying activities. Tinsley brought a lawsuit against Grundy County seeking a determination that the resolution was void due to lack of compliance with the CZA. Grundy County filed a counterclaim arguing that the resolution is valid and seeking to prohibit Tinsley from operating the quarry. The County admitted that it did not comply with the requirements in the CZA when adopting the resolution, but argued that the resolution was not a zoning regulation subject to the requirements of the CZA. The parties each filed a motion for summary judgment. The trial court granted Grundy County’s motion and denied Tinsley’s motion. The Court of Appeals affirmed the trial court’s judgment.

In a unanimous opinion, the Supreme Court reversed the judgment of the Court of Appeals and vacated the trial court’s judgment. The Court noted that Resolution 19-5-20c effectively divided the County into zones and regulated the use of land in those zones. The Court further observed that the resolution closely resembled the type of regulation typically recognized as zoning. Accordingly, the Court held that Grundy County enacted what amounts to a zoning ordinance without complying with the statutory requirements contained in the CZA.

To read the Supreme Court’s opinion in Tinsley Properties, LLC et al. v. Grundy County, Tennessee, authored by Chief Justice Jeff Bivins, visit the Supreme Court opinions section of TNCourts.gov.

Council to Consider Eight Applicants for Upcoming Court of Criminal Appeals Eastern Section Vacancy

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 19:18:36 +0000

02/17/26

The Governor’s Council for Judicial Appointments will consider eight applicants when it meets to select nominees for an upcoming vacancy on the Court of Criminal Appeals Eastern Section, after the appointment of Judge Kyle A. Hixson to the Tennessee Supreme Court.

The applicants include:

Bryce William McKenzie

Paul Othneil Moyle IV

Alex E. Pearson

Marshall A. Raines, Jr.

Hector Ian Sanchez

Stacy Lee Street

Thomas J. Tabor, Jr.

Brennan Maureen Wingerter

Public interviews of the applicants are scheduled for Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 9am EST in the courtroom of the Knoxville Supreme Court Building located at 505 Main St. Knoxville, TN 37902. At the conclusion of the interviews, the Council will vote to send three applicants to the governor.

Any member of the public may attend the public hearing and can express, orally or in writing, objections concerning applicant(s) for the judicial vacancy. If you require an accommodation and/or have special needs because of a qualified disability, or have questions about the Council, please contact AOC Assistant General Counsel Laura Blount at 615-741-2687 or laura.blount@tncourts.gov.

Governor Lee Appoints Judge to Tennessee Court of Appeals

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:45:44 +0000

02/13/26

Governor Bill Lee appointed Judge William E. Phillips II to the Tennessee Court of Appeals, Eastern Section.

Judge Phillips currently serves as a Circuit Court Judge for the Third Judicial District of Tennessee. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Sewanee: The University of the South and juris doctor at the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law.

Judge Phillips fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Chief Judge D. Michael Swiney.

Council Accepting Applications for Upcoming Court of Criminal Appeals Eastern Section Vacancy

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 16:46:29 +0000

02/03/26

The Governor’s Council for Judicial Appointments is now accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals, following the appointment of Judge Kyle A. Hixson to the Tennessee Supreme Court.

Qualified applicants must be licensed attorneys who are at least 30 years of age, have been residents of the state for five years, and must reside in the Eastern Grand Division of Tennessee. Applicants must complete the Governor’s Council for Judicial Appointments’ application, which is available at http://www.tncourts.gov/, and submit it to the Administrative Office of the Courts by 12:00 p.m. CST on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

Applicants must submit by the deadline: (1) the original signed and unbound application (updated version posted on November 28, 2022) with writing samples; and (2) a digital copy of the application (updated version posted on November 28, 2022) with writing samples in order to have his/her name placed on the list of candidates for consideration for the judicial vacancy. Complete application instructions can be found at: http://www.tncourts.gov/administration/judicial-resources. The Council encourages all candidates to submit applications as soon as possible.

Any member of the public may attend the public hearing to express, orally or in writing, their objections concerning applicant(s) for the judicial vacancy.

The Council will meet Thursday, March 5, 2026, in the courtroom of the Knoxville Supreme Court Building located at 505 Main St. Knoxville, TN 37902.

Please submit application questions to AOC Assistant General Counsel Laura Blount at (615) 741-2687 or laura.blount@tncourts.gov.

Tennessee Supreme Court to Hear Oral Arguments for February Docket in Nashville

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 17:35:42 +0000

01/28/26

On February 12, 2026, the Tennessee Supreme Court will hear oral arguments for its February docket in Nashville, Tennessee. Oral arguments will be heard at the Tennessee Supreme Court building in Nashville and livestreamed to the TNCourts YouTube page (https://www.youtube.com/@TNCourts).

Beginning at 9:00 am CST, the Court will hear the following three cases:

• Metropolitan Government of Nashville & Davidson County et al. v. Bill Lee et al. – The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County (“Metro”) has a governing council comprised of forty members. In 2023, the Tennessee General Assembly enacted a law that, among other requirements, imposed a twenty-person limit on the size of legislative bodies for counties with metropolitan governments. The constitutionality of the law was immediately challenged and the trial court determined that although certain aspects of the law were moot, other aspects violated two provisions of the Tennessee Constitution. First, the trial court found that the law violated what is known as the Local Legislation Clause, which generally prohibits legislation that affects a local entity without that entity’s approval. Second, the trial court found that the law violated what is known as the Exemption Clause, which places a twenty-five-member cap on the size of county legislative bodies but exempts metropolitan governments from that cap. The Court of Appeals reversed the trial court, concluding that the law was constitutional. The Tennessee Supreme Court granted Metro’s application for permission to appeal to consider whether the lawsuit is entirely moot and, if not, whether the legislation comports with the requirements of the Local Legislation Clause and the Exemption Clause.

• Metropolitan Government of Nashville & Davidson County v. Bill Lee et al. – Tennessee law provides for the creation of airport authorities by certain populous cities or counties, including the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County (“Metro”). In 2023, the Tennessee General Assembly enacted a law that changed the makeup and terms of the governing body of any airport authority for a county having a metropolitan form of government and a population of more than 500,000. The Metro Nashville Airport Authority was the only one that met the qualifications. Metro filed suit challenging the constitutionality of the law. The trial court determined that the law violated multiple provisions of the Tennessee Constitution. In particular, the trial court found that the law violated the Local Legislation Clause. The trial court also found that the law violated what is known as the Anti-Ripper Clause, which generally prohibits shortening the term of certain government officials. Lastly, the trial court found that certain provisions of the law violated equal protection guarantees. The Court of Appeals concluded that the law comported with equal protection guarantees, but the court agreed that the law violated the Local Legislation Clause. The Tennessee Supreme Court granted the State’s application for permission to appeal to consider whether the law comports with the requirements of the Local Legislation Clause and the Anti-Ripper Clause.

• The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Hospital Authority d/b/a Erlanger Health System v. UnitedHealthcare Plan of the River Valley, Inc. d/b/a AmeriChoice. – AmeriChoice is a managed care organization under TennCare, Tennessee’s Medicaid program. As such, AmeriChoice serves as insurer for numerous Tennesseans. Erlanger is a hospital system, but it was not a provider in AmeriChoice’s network. Nevertheless, Erlanger was required by federal law to provide emergency services to patients covered by AmeriChoice up to the point the patient was stabilized, for which Erlanger would be paid. After stabilization, however, AmeriChoice was responsible for payment only if the medical services were pre-approved. In 2009, Erlanger sought payment for post-stabilization services under a theory of unjust enrichment. The trial court granted AmeriChoice summary judgment, finding that Erlanger could not show that AmeriChoice had a legal obligation to pay for the medical services at issue. The Court of Appeals reversed, concluding that the lack of a legal obligation to pay did not bar the claim for unjust enrichment. The Tennessee Supreme Court granted AmeriChoice’s application for permission to appeal to consider whether AmeriChoice met its burden under the summary judgment standard with respect to the elements of an unjust enrichment claim.

Media members planning to attend oral arguments should review Supreme Court Rule 30 and file any required requests with:

Samantha Fisher

Communications Director

Administrative Office of the Courts

samantha.fisher@tncourts.gov

Tennessee Supreme Court to Hear Oral Arguments for February Docket in Nashville

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 17:27:54 +0000

01/28/26

Beginning at 9:00 am CST, the Court will hear the following three cases:

Media members planning to attend oral arguments should review Supreme Court Rule 30 and file any required requests with:

Samantha Fisher

Communications Director

Administrative Office of the Courts

samantha.fisher@tncourts.gov

Tennessee Supreme Court Clarifies Tennessee Courts’ Jurisdiction in Arbitration Case

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 18:51:10 +0000

01/23/26

The Tennessee Supreme Court today held that Tennessee courts do not have jurisdiction to confirm arbitration awards when the parties agreed that arbitration would occur in another state.

Berkeley Research Group and Southern Advanced Materials entered into a contract in which they agreed that any dispute arising from the contract would be resolved by arbitration in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. When a dispute later arose, the parties conducted arbitration over Zoom, but the arbitrator was located in Philadelphia. The arbitrator ruled in favor of Berkeley Research Group, which then filed a case in Shelby County Chancery Court to enter judgment on, or confirm, the arbitration award.

The Tennessee Supreme Court held that under the Uniform Arbitration Act, Tennessee courts do not have subject matter jurisdiction to confirm an out-of-state arbitration award where the parties agreed that arbitration would take place in another state. Because the parties agreed that arbitration would take place in Pennsylvania, the court did not have jurisdiction to confirm the arbitration award.

To read the Supreme Court’s opinion in Berkeley Research Group, LLC v. Southern Advanced Materials, LLC, authored by Justice Dwight E. Tarwater, visit the opinions section of TNCourts.gov.

Governor Lee Announces Three Judicial Appointments

joette.phillips@tncourts.gov — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 20:19:39 +0000

01/22/26

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced three judicial appointments today.

Judge Kyle Hixson was appointed to the Tennessee Supreme Court to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Justice Holly Kirby on June 30, 2026. Judge Hixson currently serves on the Court of Criminal Appeals. He earned his bachelor's degree at The University of Tennessee and juris doctor at The University of Tennessee College of Law.

Judge Steve Maroney was appointed to the Tennessee Court of Appeals, Western Section, to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Kenny Armstrong on Feb. 9, 2026. Judge Maroney currently serves as Chancellor for the 26th Judicial District. He earned his bachelor's degree at Union University and juris doctor at The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law.

Rachel Hurt was appointed to the Tennessee Court of Appeals, Eastern Section, to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Chief Judge D. Michael Swiney on Jan. 12, 2026. Ms. Hurt currently serves as a partner at Arnett, Baker, Draper, and Hagood. She earned her bachelor's degree at Syracuse University and juris doctor at The University of Tennessee College of Law.