Appellate Court Opinions

In Re Isaiah M.

Francesca.Kraft@tncourts.gov — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 18:51:13 +0000

In Re Isaiah M.

Case Number

E2026-00024-COA-T10B-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Valerie L. Smith

Originating Judge

Judge Suzanne Cook

Date Filed

Thu, 06/04/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Petitioner/Mother seeks accelerated review of the trial court’s denial of her 13^th motion to recuse. Because a final judgment has been entered in the underlying termination of parental rights case, and Mother has appealed that judgment, issues related to the trial court’s denial of Mother’s recusal motion may be raised in her appeal of the final judgment. Accordingly, we dismiss this appeal.

In Re Isaiah M.

Francesca.Kraft@tncourts.gov — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 18:44:16 +0000

In Re Isaiah M.

Case Number

E2025-01998-COA-T10B-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Valerie L. Smith

Originating Judge

Judge Suzanne Cook

Date Filed

Thu, 06/04/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Petitioner/Mother seeks accelerated review of the trial court’s denial of her 12^th motion to recuse. A final judgment has been entered in the underlying termination of parental rights case, and Mother has appealed that judgment. Issues related to the trial court’s denial of Mother’s motion to recuse may be raised in Mother’s appeal of the trial court’s final judgment. Accordingly, we dismiss this appeal.

State of Tennessee v. Howard Jefferson Atkins

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 15:54:25 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Howard Jefferson Atkins

Case Number

W2025-01501-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Camille R. McMullen

Originating Judge

Judge A. Blake Neill

Date Filed

Thu, 06/04/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The Appellant, Howard Jefferson Atkins, acting pro se, appeals from the Tipton County
Circuit Court’s summary denial of his Rule 36 motion to correct an alleged clerical error
in a juvenile transfer order entered in 2000. Having thoroughly reviewed the record, the
briefs of the parties, and applicable law, we affirm the judgment of the trial court.

Jacquet Moore v. State of Tennessee

Claire.Gordon@tncourts.gov — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 16:00:40 +0000

Jacquet Moore v. State of Tennessee

Case Number

W2025-01180-CCA-R3-PC

Authoring Judge

Judge Kyle A. Hixson

Originating Judge

Judge Carlyn L. Addison

Date Filed

Thu, 06/04/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The Petitioner, Jacquet Moore, appeals from the denial of his petition for post-conviction relief from his underlying conviction for aggravated rape. On appeal, the Petitioner maintains that he received ineffective assistance of counsel based on trial counsel’s failure to (1) perform adequate investigation in preparation for trial, including seeking funds for investigative services, and (2) effectively impeach the victim on cross-examination. As a preliminary matter, we remanded the case to the post-conviction court for the entry of an amended order to include sufficient findings of fact and conclusions of law on these two issues. After our review of the amended order, as well as the issues presented by the parties and the record on appeal, we affirm the judgment of the post-conviction court.

State of Tennessee v. Deviest Patton

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 20:52:58 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Deviest Patton

Case Number

M2025-01139-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Robert L. Holloway, Jr.

Originating Judge

Chancellor Howard W. Wilson

Date Filed

Wed, 06/03/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Following a bench trial, Deviest Patton (“Appellant”) was found not guilty by reason of insanity. The trial court ordered Appellant to be diagnosed and evaluated pursuant to Tennessee Code Annotated section 33-7-303(a)(1). Upon completion of the evaluation, the State filed a complaint for judicial commitment. Following an evidentiary hearing, the court ordered Appellant to be judicially committed. On appeal, Appellant asserts the trial court erred by ordering judicial hospitalization. Discerning no error, we affirm.

IN RE ALEXANDER B.

Barbara.Doud@tncourts.gov — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 18:48:57 +0000

IN RE ALEXANDER B.

Case Number

E2025-01580-COA-R3-PT

Authoring Judge

Judge Thomas R. Frierson, II

Originating Judge

Chancellor Elizabeth C. Asbury

Date Filed

Wed, 06/03/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

In this case involving termination of a mother’s parental rights, the trial court determined
that clear and convincing evidence supported termination as to two statutory grounds:
abandonment by failure to visit and persistence of the conditions that led to the child’s
removal. The trial court did not find clear and convincing evidence to support the alleged
ground of failure to manifest an ability and willingness to assume legal and physical
custody of or financial responsibility for the child. The trial court further determined that
termination of parental rights was in the child’s best interest. The mother has appealed,
contesting the termination of her parental rights and additionally arguing that the adoptive
father lacked standing to file the petition due to his criminal history and the fact that he is
not legally related to the child. Upon review, we determine that the adoptive father had
standing to file the termination petition because he had maintained physical custody of the
child for nearly a year before filing the termination petition. As to termination of the
mother’s parental rights, we reverse the trial court’s determination that the petitioners had
failed to establish the statutory ground of failure to manifest an ability and willingness to
assume legal and physical custody of the child. Accordingly, we find that statutory ground
also supports termination of the mother’s parental rights. In all other respects, we affirm.

In Re Bravon K.

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 20:41:00 +0000

In Re Bravon K.

Case Number

M2024-01029-COA-R3-PT

Authoring Judge

Chief Judge Frank G. Clement, Jr.

Originating Judge

Judge Charles B. Tatum

Date Filed

Wed, 06/03/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The father of the minor child appeals the termination of his parental rights. The paternal aunt and uncle, who sought custody of the minor child, appeal the denial of their motion to intervene. We affirm both decisions.

In Re Liam M.

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 20:42:53 +0000

In Re Liam M.

Case Number

M2024-01437-COA-R3-PT

Authoring Judge

Judge Andy D. Bennett

Originating Judge

Judge Kathryn Wall Olita

Date Filed

Wed, 06/03/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The circuit court determined that two grounds for termination of a mother’s parental rights to her child had been proven by clear and convincing evidence but concluded that the petitioners failed to prove by clear and convincing evidence that termination of the mother’s parental rights was in the child’s best interest. The petitioners appealed. Discerning no error, we affirm the circuit court’s decision.

State of Tennessee v. James Andrew Paige

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 20:44:36 +0000

State of Tennessee v. James Andrew Paige

Case Number

M2024-01550-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Robert L. Holloway, Jr.

Originating Judge

Judge Cheryl A. Blackburn

Date Filed

Wed, 06/03/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Defendant, James Andrew Paige, appeals from his convictions for three counts of rape, for which he is serving an eleven-year sentence in confinement. On appeal, Defendant argues that the trial court erred by(1) denying his motion for judgment of acquittal because the evidence was insufficient to support his convictions; (2)admitting the victim’s hearsay statements; and (3) failing to inquire into defense counsel’s unintentional contact with a juror or declare a mistrial. Defendant also avers that the cumulative effect of these errors entitles him to relief. We affirm.

Zurich American Insurance Company v. Tom James Company et al.

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 20:47:55 +0000

Zurich American Insurance Company v. Tom James Company et al.

Case Number

M2025-00404-COA-R9-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Andy D. Bennett

Originating Judge

Chancellor Deanna B. Johnson

Date Filed

Wed, 06/03/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

This is an interlocutory appeal concerning the scope of a commercial property insurance policy and whether the insured has stated sufficient facts to invoke coverage. The insurer filed a complaint for a declaratory judgment, seeking a declaration that the policy at issue did not provide coverage for the insured’s claimed losses. The insured filed a counterclaim seeking a declaratory judgment that the policy provided coverage and asserting a breach of contract claim. The insurer filed a motion to dismiss and for judgment on the pleadings, which the trial court denied. We granted permission for an interlocutory appeal. After interpreting the policy, we determine that the insured failed to invoke coverage, and we reverse the trial court’s contrary finding. However, we affirm the trial court’s denial of the motion to dismiss, finding that the counterclaim sufficiently stated a claim for a declaratory judgment. Because the pleadings had not closed when the trial court ruled on the motion for judgment on the pleadings, we vacate the order of the trial court and remand for further proceedings.

Riley Davidson v. Shelbyville Hospital Company, LLC

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 20:50:09 +0000

Riley Davidson v. Shelbyville Hospital Company, LLC

Case Number

M2025-00905-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Kristi M. Davis

Originating Judge

Judge M. Wyatt Burk

Date Filed

Wed, 06/03/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

This appeal arises out of a health care liability claim. The case proceeded to trial, and the jury entered a verdict in favor of the appellee-defendant. The appellant-plaintiff appeals the trial court’s acceptance of two of defendant’s expert witnesses. Upon diligent review of the record, we conclude that the trial court erred in allowing defendant’s causation expert witness to testify about his interpretation of a diagnostic image when his opinion about that image had not been properly disclosed as required by the Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure. We also conclude that this error more probably than not affected the judgment. We further conclude that the trial court erred in allowing defendant’s standard-of-care expert witness to testify despite not satisfying the locality rule contained in the Health Care Liability Act. However, we conclude that this error did not more probably than not affect the judgment. We vacate the jury’s verdict and the trial court’s judgment and remand this matter for a new trial.

State of Tennessee v. Michele Lee Ridgeway

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 13:36:03 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Michele Lee Ridgeway

Case Number

W2025-01052-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Tom Greenholtz

Originating Judge

Judge Bruce Irwin Griffey

Date Filed

Tue, 06/02/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The Defendant, Michele Lee Ridgeway, pled guilty to two counts of the sale of more than 0.5 grams of methamphetamine. The trial court imposed an effective sentence of eight years suspended to supervised probation. Thereafter, the Defendant allegedly violated the terms of her probation by possessing drug paraphernalia in her residence. Following a revocation hearing, the trial court fully revoked the Defendant’s suspended sentences and ordered her to serve the remainder of her sentences in confinement. On appeal, the Defendant raises two issues: (1) whether the State proved that she violated the conditions of her suspended sentences; and (2) whether the trial court abused its discretion in fully revoking her probation as a consequence of the alleged violation. Upon our review, we conclude that the State did not prove that the Defendant violated the terms of her probation. Because we resolve the appeal on that basis, we do not reach the second issue. Accordingly, we respectfully reverse and vacate the revocation order and remand the case for dismissal of the revocation proceedings.

State of Tennessee v. Joshua Daniel Gibbons

terri.lomax@tncourts.gov — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:41:25 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Joshua Daniel Gibbons

Case Number

E2025-00734-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Matthew J. Wilson

Originating Judge

Judge William K. Rogers

Date Filed

Tue, 06/02/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Defendant, Joshua Daniel Gibbons, appeals his Sullivan County Criminal Court jury conviction of disorderly conduct, arguing that the evidence was insufficient to support his conviction and that the trial court erredin its instructions to the jury. We find that the trial court erred by instructing the jury on a mode of disorderly conduct not included in the charging instrument and that, in any event, the evidence was insufficient to support Defendant’s convictionunder either mode of liability charged to the jury. Accordingly, we reverse the judgment of the trial court and dismiss the charge.

State of Tennessee v. Todd Allen Burrows, Jr.

terri.lomax@tncourts.gov — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:54:57 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Todd Allen Burrows, Jr.

Case Number

E2025-01346-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Matthew J. Wilson

Originating Judge

Judge James F. Goodwin, Jr.

Date Filed

Tue, 06/02/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Defendant, Todd Allen Burrows, Jr., appeals the Sullivan County Criminal Court’s revocation of his probation, arguing that the trial court erred by ordering that he serve the balance of his sentence in confinement. Because we conclude that the trial court did not abuse its discretion, we affirm.

IN RE OLIVIA S.

Barbara.Doud@tncourts.gov — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 19:32:28 +0000

IN RE OLIVIA S.

Case Number

E2025-01048-COA-R3-PT

Authoring Judge

Judge John W. McClarty

Originating Judge

Chancellor Keith Edward Cole II

Date Filed

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

This action involves the trial court’s denial of a petition for termination of a biological
father’s parental rights to his minor child. We now affirm.

State of Tennessee v. Cordero Klein Blake

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 18:40:20 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Cordero Klein Blake

Case Number

W2025-00797-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Presiding Judge Robert W. Wedemeyer

Originating Judge

Judge Kyle C. Atkins

Date Filed

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

A Henderson County jury convicted the Defendant, Cordero Klein Blake, of driving while
under the influence (“DUI”) of marijuana, first offense, possession of a handgun while
under the influence, driving on a suspended license, speeding, violation of registration law,
and violation of financial responsibility law. The trial court imposed a total effective
sentence of eleven months and twenty-nine days, suspended to community corrections
supervision following service of seven days in confinement. On appeal, the Defendant
contends that the evidence is insufficient to sustain his convictions for DUI and possession
of a handgun while under the influence. After review, we affirm the trial court’s judgments.

Dana Denea Hickerson Page v. Richard Charles Page, Jr.

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 15:25:36 +0000

Dana Denea Hickerson Page v. Richard Charles Page, Jr.

Case Number

M2026-00639-COA-T10B-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Andy D. Bennett

Originating Judge

Chancellor David Henry Veile

Date Filed

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

This is a Rule 10B interlocutory appeal of the denial of a second recusal motion. We find, as the trial court did, that the second motion is repetitive of the first and should be denied. We further grant attorney’s fees for a frivolous appeal.

State of Tennessee v. Patrick Jayson Reeners

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 18:24:06 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Patrick Jayson Reeners

Case Number

M2026-00790-CCA-T10B-CO

Dispositive Order

Authoring Judge

Presiding Judge Robert W. Wedemeyer; Judge Robert L. Holloway, Jr.; Judge Timothy L. Easter

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

This matter is before the Court upon the pro se petition of the Defendant, Patrick Jayson Reeners, for an interlocutory appeal as of right pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 10B, Section 2. The Defendant seeks review of the trial judge’s order denying the pro se motion to recuse herself. See Tenn. Sup. Ct. R. 10B, Sec. 1.

State of Tennessee v. Antonio Demetrius Adkisson a/k/a Antonio Demetrius Tuner Jr. (Concurring in Part/Dissenting in Part)

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 20:01:00 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Antonio Demetrius Adkisson a/k/a Antonio Demetrius Tuner Jr. (Concurring in Part/Dissenting in Part)

Case Number

W2022-01009-SC-R11-CD

Authoring Judge

Justice Sarah K. Campbell

Originating Judge

Judge Clayburn Peeples

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The majority concludes that Antonio Demetrius Adkisson’s confession to law enforcement officers was involuntary and vacates his two convictions for second-degree murder. Whether Adkisson’s confession was voluntary under the Tennessee and United States Constitutions is a close question. But applying the same totality-of-the circumstances test as the majority, I conclude that the confession here was the product of Adkisson’s own free will, not police coercion. I therefore respectfully dissent from the majority’s analysis of that issue and from the Court’s judgment vacating Adkisson’s convictions.

State of Tennessee v. Antonio Demetrius Adkisson a/k/a Antonio Demetrius Turner Jr.

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 19:55:39 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Antonio Demetrius Adkisson a/k/a Antonio Demetrius Turner Jr.

Case Number

W2022-01009-SC-R11-CD

Authoring Judge

Chief Justice Jeffrey S. Bivins

Originating Judge

Judge Clayburn Peeples

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Seventeen-year-old Antonio Demetrius Adkisson (a.k.a. Antonio Demetrius Turner, Jr.) (“the Defendant”) was charged with two counts of first-degree murder for the fatal shooting of two victims. The Gibson County Juvenile Court (“the juvenile court”) held a transfer hearing and found it appropriate to transfer the Defendant to the Gibson County Circuit Court (“the trial court”) to be prosecuted as an adult. After a jury trial, during which the Defendant’s videotaped statements were admitted into evidence, the Defendant was convicted of two counts of the lesser-included offense of second-degree murder. On direct appeal, the Court of Criminal Appeals affirmed. See State v. Adkisson, No. W2022-01009-CCA-R3-CD, 2024 WL 1252173 (Tenn. Crim. App. Mar. 25, 2024), perm. app. granted, (Tenn. Aug. 14, 2024). The Defendant requested permission to appeal to this Court, alleging (1) the juvenile court lacked probable cause to believe he committed the charged offenses, as required for transfer by Tennessee Code Annotated section 37-1-134(a)(4)(A), and (2) the trial court erred in admitting his confession at trial because he did not validly waive his right to remain silent and his confession was involuntary. We hold that the Defendant was properly transferred to the trial court. We further hold that the Defendant validly waived his Fifth Amendment right to remain silent, but his confession was unlawfully coerced in violation of the Due Process Clause and thus inadmissible at trial. Having found reversible error on that basis, we vacate the Defendant’s convictions of second-degree murder and remand the case for further proceedings consistent with this opinion.

Andrew Bettis Aviation, LLC v. Howard Wayne Lanier

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:36:08 +0000

Andrew Bettis Aviation, LLC v. Howard Wayne Lanier

Case Number

W2025-01094-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Steven W. Maroney

Originating Judge

Chancellor James R. Newsom

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

This appeal presents two issues: (1) whether Appellant preserved his evidentiary issues
concerning the trial court’s admission of video evidence in a jury trial, and (2) whether,
following a bench trial, the trial court made sufficient findings under Rule 52.01 when
rejecting Appellant’s COBRA claim. Because Appellant failed to include the evidentiary
issues in a motion for new trial as required by Tennessee Rule of Appellate Procedure 3(e),
and because Tennessee Rules of Appellate Procedure 13(b) and 36(b) are not applicable,
we conclude that Appellant waived the evidentiary issues. Further, because the trial court’s
order does not make sufficient findings, we cannot conduct a meaningful review of the
COBRA issue, and we remand for compliance with Rule 52.01.

Julie C. Bartholomew v. Douglas K. Southard, et al.

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 18:39:56 +0000

Julie C. Bartholomew v. Douglas K. Southard, et al.

Case Number

W2024-01494-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Valerie L. Smith

Originating Judge

Chancellor JoeDae L. Jenkins

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The trial court determined Defendants/Appellants were liable for damages arising from
negligent misrepresentation and breach of contract. We reverse.

In Re Troy R., et al.

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 18:46:44 +0000

In Re Troy R., et al.

Case Number

W2024-01738-COA-R3-JV

Authoring Judge

Judge Carma Dennis McGee

Originating Judge

Special Judge W. Ray Glasgow

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

This appeal involves a long-running custody dispute between unmarried parents. In this
latest chapter of the litigation, the father filed a petition to modify, seeking to be named
primary residential parent and/or increase his parenting time. The mother filed a counterpetition,
seeking only a change in decision-making authority. The trial court denied the
father’s petition but did make several changes to the parenting schedule. The trial court
also granted the mother’s request to be named sole decision-maker for educational and
extracurricular decisions and allowed her to obtain passports for the children. Finally, the
trial court ordered the father to pay the mother’s attorney fees. The father appeals. We
vacate in part, affirm as modified, and remand for further proceedings.

State of Tennessee v. Kenneth C. Davis

terri.lomax@tncourts.gov — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:24:32 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Kenneth C. Davis

Case Number

E2024-01785-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Kyle A. Hixson

Originating Judge

Judge Steven W. Sword

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The Defendant, Kenneth C. Davis, was convicted by a jury of burglary of a building other than a habitation and received a twelve-year sentence. The Defendant died while his motion for new trial was still pending, which prompted the Defendant’s counsel to file a motion to dismiss on the Defendant’s behalf, arguing that the common law doctrine of abatement ab initio should act to abate the Defendant’s entire case from the inception of the prosecution. The trial court denied the motion, relying on the Tennessee Supreme Court’s decision in State v. Al Mutory, 581 S.W.3d 741 (Tenn. 2019). The Defendant’s counsel filed an appeal from that decision pursuant to Rule 3 of the Tennessee Rules of Appellate Procedure. On appeal, the Defendant’s counsel contends that the trial court erred by relying on Al Mutory and declining to apply the doctrine of abatement ab initio under these circumstances. Following supplemental briefing, we conclude that this court lacks subject matter jurisdiction under Rule 3 to review the issue as presented. Further, we decline to extend the extraordinary judicial remedy of a writ of certiorari. The appeal is dismissed.

State of Tennessee v. Bernard Adrian Smith, a/k/a Adrian Smith a/k/a Adrianne Smith

terri.lomax@tncourts.gov — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:20:56 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Bernard Adrian Smith, a/k/a Adrian Smith a/k/a Adrianne Smith

Case Number

E2024-01711-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Kyle A. Hixson

Originating Judge

Judge Boyd Patterson

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The Defendant, Bernard Adrian Smith, a/k/a Adrian Smith, a/k/a Adrianne Smith, was convicted of attempted first degree murder and aggravated domestic assault following a bench trial. The Defendant represented himself at these proceedings, although he was appointed an attorney as “counsel to assist,” also known as “standby counsel.” On appeal, the Defendant contends, inter alia, that he did not ask to represent himself, even with the aid of standby counsel, and that the trial court improperly required him to do so against his expressed wishes. After a thorough review of the record, we agree with the Defendant that he was denied his right to counsel. Therefore, we reverse the judgments of the trial court and remand the case for a new trial.

State of Tennessee v. Roy Gene Nicholson, III

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 14:29:16 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Roy Gene Nicholson, III

Case Number

M2024-01852-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Steven W. Sword

Originating Judge

Judge Deanna B. Johnson

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The Defendant, Roy Gene Nicholson, III, appeals from his Williamson County Circuit Court convictions of reckless aggravated assault, evading arrest, possession of marijuana with the intent to sell or deliver, and unlawful possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony, for which he received an effective sentence of five years’ incarceration. On appeal, the Defendant argues that his arresting officer did not have reasonable suspicion to initiate a traffic stop pursuant to Tennessee Code Annotated section 55-8-204 and that his Sixth Amendment right to a speedy trial was violated by the trial court’s granting the State’s motion to continue his trial, during which time the State procured a superseding indictment. Discerning no error, we affirm.

State of Tennessee v. Bradley Michael Lesniewski

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 14:46:15 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Bradley Michael Lesniewski

Case Number

M2025-00354-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Robert L. Holloway, Jr.

Originating Judge

Chancellor Howard W. Wilson

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Following a jury trial, Defendant, Bradley Michael Lesniewski, was convicted of possession of a handgun by a felon; possession of a firearm by a felon-prior felony drug conviction; false imprisonment; evading arrest; possession of a Schedule I controlled substance with intent to sell or deliver (Heroin); possession of a Schedule II controlled substance with intent to sell or deliver (0.5 grams or more of Methamphetamine); possession of a Schedule II controlled substance with intent to sell or deliver (Fentanyl); possession of drug paraphernalia; and driving while license is suspended, cancelled, or revoked. For these offenses, the trial court imposed a total effective sentence of twenty years’ incarceration. On appeal, Defendant challenges the sufficiency of the evidence supporting his convictions. Following a thorough review, we affirm Defendant’s convictions but remand for the merger of two counts and the entry of corrected judgment forms.

Terra Lynn Thompson v. Justin Claude Thompson

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 15:18:31 +0000

Terra Lynn Thompson v. Justin Claude Thompson

Case Number

M2025-01226-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Jeffrey Usman

Originating Judge

Judge Joseph A. Woodruff

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Husband and Wife divorced. In ruling upon contested matters, the trial court awarded Wife transitional alimony and alimony in futuro as well as attorney’s fees. Husband appealed. He argues the trial court’s award of alimony was error because the court miscalculated his income, because it errantly excluded certain evidence, and because it awarded the wrong type of alimony. He also argues that Wife’s attorney’s fees affidavit was insufficient to support an award of attorney’s fees. We affirm.

In Re Conservatorship of Leon Aubrey Manners

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 15:09:53 +0000

In Re Conservatorship of Leon Aubrey Manners

Case Number

M2025-00990-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Chief Judge Frank G. Clement, Jr.

Originating Judge

Chancellor Kimberly S. Lund

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

This appeal concerns the trial court’s decision to charge the costs of a conservatorship proceeding against the petitioner under Tennessee Code Annotated § 34-1-114. The petitioner sought a conservatorship for the respondent—the petitioner’s 84-year-old father—to protect his father and to prevent him from wasting his assets. The court found clear and convincing evidence that the respondent was a disabled person in need of a conservatorship and that it was in the respondent’s best interest that the petitioner be appointed his conservator. But the court charged the costs of the proceedings to the petitioner rather than the property of the respondent. The court reasoned, inter alia, that the petitioner benefited from the conservatorship and that the respondent’s need for a conservatorship was “borderline” and “not clear cut.” The petitioner appeals. Having reviewed the trial court’s discretionary decisions pursuant to the three-part analysis set forth in Lee Medical Inc. v. Beecher, 312 S.W.3d 515, 524 (Tenn. 2010), we have determined that the trial court’s decision to charge the costs of the proceedings to the petitioner was based on an erroneous assessment of the relevant facts and a misapplication of the relevant legal principles. Accordingly, we vacate the decision and remand with instructions to assess all the guardian ad litem fees against the property of the respondent, the amount of which has already been approved, and to assess against the property of the respondent the reasonable and necessary attorney’s fees and costs the petitioner incurred in the trial court and on appeal, the amount of which is to be determined on remand. The trial court shall also determine the reasonable and necessary attorney’s fees and costs incurred by the attorney ad litem in this appeal and assess those charges against the property of the respondent.

State of Tennessee ex rel. Kenneth Dale Davenport v. Frank Strada, ex officio as Commissioner et al.

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 14:53:04 +0000

State of Tennessee ex rel. Kenneth Dale Davenport v. Frank Strada, ex officio as Commissioner et al.

Case Number

M2025-00570-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge W. Neal McBrayer

Originating Judge

Chancellor Patricia Head Moskal

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

An inmate in the custody of the Tennessee Department of Correction petitioned for a writ of mandamus. On its own motion, the trial court dismissed the petition for failure to state a claim upon which relief may be granted. We affirm.

BENJAMIN MCCURRY v. AGNESS MCCURRY

Barbara.Doud@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 15:32:14 +0000

BENJAMIN MCCURRY v. AGNESS MCCURRY

Case Number

E2024-00042-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Kristi M. Davis

Originating Judge

Senior Judge D. Kelly Thomas

Date Filed

Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The trial court found the appellant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt of three charges of criminal contempt. The appellant appeals those criminal contempt findings. Discerning no error, we affirm.

BRITTANY WILSON (HAMILTON) v. JEFFERY D. WILSON

Barbara.Doud@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 19:52:19 +0000

BRITTANY WILSON (HAMILTON) v. JEFFERY D. WILSON

Case Number

E2026-00081-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

JOHN W. MCCLARTY, P.J., E.S.; KRISTI M. DAVIS, J.; AND WILLIAM E. PHILLIPS, II, J.

Originating Judge

Chancellor Gregory S. McMillan

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Because the order from which the appellant has filed an appeal does not constitute a final
appealable judgment, this Court lacks jurisdiction to consider this appeal.

State of Tennessee v. Cortez Gore

Francesca.Kraft@tncourts.gov — Thu, 28 May 2026 18:27:38 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Cortez Gore

Case Number

E2026-00769-CCA-R9-CD

Dispositive Order

Authoring Judge

Judge Sword, Montgomery, Jr. and Greenholtz

Originating Judge

Judge Rogers

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The pro se Defendant has filed an application seeking an interlocutory appeal from the trial court’s order granting counsel’s motion to withdraw from representation. Upon preliminary consideration, we determine that the application is procedurally insufficient for this court’s review. Therefore, the State need not file an answer to the application. The Defendant’s application for interlocutory appeal is DENIED

State of Tennessee v. Nakeavious Milan

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 17:02:57 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Nakeavious Milan

Case Number

W2025-01345-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Camille R. McMullen

Originating Judge

Judge Carolyn W. Blackett

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The Defendant, Nakeavious Milan, entered a guilty plea to one count of voluntary
manslaughter, a Class C felony. See Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-13-211 (Supp. 2022). Pursuant
to his plea agreement, the Defendant was sentenced as a Range II, multiple offender to
eight years, with the trial court to determine whether the Defendant would be permitted to
serve his sentence on probation. Following a sentencing hearing, the trial court denied the
Defendant’s request for full probation and ordered him to serve his eight-year sentence in
confinement. On appeal, the Defendant argues that the trial court abused its discretion in
denying his request for full probation. After review, we affirm the judgment of the trial
court.

IN RE MICHAEL S.

Barbara.Doud@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 20:21:47 +0000

IN RE MICHAEL S.

Case Number

E2025-01028-COA-R3-PT

Authoring Judge

Judge Thomas R. Frierson, II

Originating Judge

Chancellor Douglas T. Jenkins

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

In this case involving termination of a mother’s parental rights to her child, the trial court
determined that clear and convincing evidence supported two grounds for termination:
abandonment by failure to visit and abandonment by failure to financially support the
child. The trial court also found that termination was in the child’s best interest. The
mother has appealed. After thorough review, we affirm the trial court’s determination
relative to the ground of abandonment by failure to support. However, the evidence did
not support a finding of abandonment by failure to visit, and we reverse the trial court’s
determination as to that ground. We vacate, for insufficient findings of fact and
conclusions of law, the trial court’s conclusion that termination was in the child’s best
interest and remand this case to the trial court with instructions to conduct a thorough
analysis of the best interest factors found in Tennessee Code Annotated § 36-1-113(i).

State of Tennessee Roderick Darnell Stafford

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 20:27:48 +0000

State of Tennessee Roderick Darnell Stafford

Case Number

M2025-01230-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Timothy L. Easter

Originating Judge

Judge Jennifer Smith

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Defendant, Roderick Darnell Stafford, was indicted by the Davidson County Grand Jury for two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in Counts 1 and 2, one count of possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony drug offense in Count 3, and one count of possessing a firearm after being convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence in Count 4. Defendant pleaded guilty as charged in Counts 2 and 3, with the trial court to determine the length, manner, and alignment of service. After a sentencing hearing, the trial court sentenced Defendant to four years’ confinement for Count 2 and five years’ confinement for Count 3, ordering the sentences to run consecutively for an effective sentence of nine years’ confinement. The remaining counts were dismissed. On appeal, Defendant argues that the trial court erred by (1) imposing enhanced sentences, (2) ordering consecutive alignment of his sentences, and (3) ordering him to serve his sentences in confinement. After review, we remand the matter to the trial court for entry of judgment forms for Counts 1 and 4. In all other respects, we affirm the judgments of the trial court.

State of Tennessee v. Laquala Malone

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 20:40:59 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Laquala Malone

Case Number

W2025-00853-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Steven W. Sword

Originating Judge

Judge Paula L. Skahan

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The Defendant, Laquala Malone, pled guilty in the Shelby County Criminal Court to one
count of aggravated assault. Following a sentencing hearing, the trial court denied the
Defendant’s application for judicial diversion and imposed a three-year sentence to be
served on supervised probation. The Defendant appeals, arguing that the trial court erred
by denying her request for judicial diversion. Discerning no error, we affirm.

State of Tennessee v. Kyle Baptiste

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 20:44:26 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Kyle Baptiste

Case Number

W2025-01096-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Steven W. Sword

Originating Judge

Judge J. Weber McCraw

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The Defendant, Kyle Baptiste, appeals his Hardeman County Circuit Court conviction of
rape, for which he received a sentence of twenty years’ incarceration. On appeal, the
Defendant challenges the sufficiency of the evidence to support the conviction. Discerning
no error, we affirm.

Kevin Waggoner v. State of Tennessee

terri.lomax@tncourts.gov — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:29:51 +0000

Kevin Waggoner v. State of Tennessee

Case Number

E2025-00434-CCA-R3-PC

Authoring Judge

Judge Jill Bartee Ayers

Originating Judge

Judge Zachary R. Walden

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Petitioner, Kevin Waggoner, appeals the denial of his petition for post-conviction relief, arguing (1) the trial court participated in an ex parte jury proceeding which violated hisright to an impartial jury; (2) his trial counsel was ineffective for failing to attend the jury proceeding at the local high school; (3) his trial counsel was ineffective for failing to move to remove a juror who admittedduring trial that she knew one of the State’s witnesses; (4) his appellate counsel was ineffective for failing to request a subpoena duces tecum for a single record from a juror’s Facebook record; (5) the post-conviction court erred in denying a subpoena duces tecum for the juror’s Facebookaccount; and (6) the cumulative errors undermine confidence in the verdict. Upon review of the entire record, the briefs and arguments of the parties, and the applicable law, we affirm the judgment of the post-conviction court.

James Hudgins v. State of Tennessee

terri.lomax@tncourts.gov — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:36:10 +0000

James Hudgins v. State of Tennessee

Case Number

E2025-00540-CCA-R3-ECN

Authoring Judge

Judge Timothy L. Easter

Originating Judge

Judge Hector Sanchez

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Petitioner, James Hudgins, was convicted in 2014 of first degree murder. State v. Hudgins, No. E2015-01363-CCA-R3-CD, 2016 WL 4413281, at *1 (Tenn. Crim. App. Aug. 18, 2016), perm. app. denied(Tenn. Oct. 19, 2016). His conviction was affirmed on appeal. Petitioner sought post-conviction relief, alleging ineffective assistance of counsel, including a claim that counsel was ineffective for failing to present evidence that Petitioner’s mother told multiple people she drugged him with Xanax on the day of the shooting.Hudgins v. State, No. E2019-02173-CCA-R3-PC, 2020 WL 7589670, at *1 (Tenn. Crim. App. Dec. 22, 2020), perm. app. denied(Tenn. Apr. 7, 2021). Petitioner was unsuccessful in pursuingpost-conviction relief. Petitioner then filed a petition for writ of error coram nobis alleging that newly discovered evidence existed to show that his mother drugged him on the night of the shooting. In a supplement to the petition, Petitioner acknowledged the petition was untimely but claimed that he was entitled to equitable tolling of the statute of limitations. After a hearing, the coram nobis court issued an order denying the petition. Petitioner appealed. After a review, we affirm the judgment of the coram nobis court.

IN RE SYLIS K., ET AL.

Barbara.Doud@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 15:19:04 +0000

IN RE SYLIS K., ET AL.

Case Number

E2025-01109-COA-R3-PT

Authoring Judge

Judge Carma Dennis McGee

Originating Judge

Chancellor J. Michael Sharp

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

This appeal involves a grandmother and grandfather’s petition to terminate the parental
rights of a father to two of his children. The petition alleged the following grounds for
termination: (1) abandonment by failure to visit, (2) abandonment by failure to support,
and (3) failure to manifest an ability and willingness to assume custody. The trial court
held that each ground was proven by clear and convincing evidence. The trial court also
determined that the termination of parental rights was in the best interests of the children.
The father appeals. We ultimately affirm the termination of the father’s parental rights but
must vacate the trial court’s determination regarding the failure to manifest an ability and
willingness to assume

Kenneth Martin v. Natasha Barrett et al.

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 14:37:04 +0000

Kenneth Martin v. Natasha Barrett et al.

Case Number

M2024-01947-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Thomas R. Frierson, II

Originating Judge

Chancellor Benjamin K. Dean

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The plaintiff in this action sought to collaterally attack a child support judgment and raised allegations of constitutional and other violations of law by several named defendants, including Child Support Services, the plaintiff’s former spouse, and the State of Tennessee. The trial court dismissed the complaint, determining, inter alia, that the plaintiff had failed to state a claim upon which relief could be granted. The plaintiff has appealed. Discerning no reversible error, we affirm.

Brittany Wilson (Hamilton) v. Jeffery D. Wilson

Francesca.Kraft@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 22:32:42 +0000

Brittany Wilson (Hamilton) v. Jeffery D. Wilson

Case Number

E2026-00081-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Per Curiam

Originating Judge

Judge Gregory S. McMillan

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Because the order from which the appellant has filed an appeal does not constitute a final appealable judgment, this Court lacks jurisdiction to consider this appeal.

In Re Michael S.

Francesca.Kraft@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 22:31:25 +0000

In Re Michael S.

Case Number

E2025-01028-COA-R3-PT

Authoring Judge

Judge Thomas R. Frierson, II

Originating Judge

Chancellor Douglas T. Jenkins

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

In this case involving termination of a mother’s parental rights to her child, the trial court determined that clear and convincing evidence supported two grounds for termination: abandonment by failure to visit and abandonment by failure to financially support the child. The trial court also found that termination was in the child’s best interest. The mother has appealed. After thorough review, we affirm the trial court’s determination relative to the ground of abandonment by failure to support. However, the evidence did not support a finding of abandonment by failure to visit, and we reverse the trial court’s determination as to that ground. We vacate, for insufficient findings of fact and conclusions of law, the trial court’s conclusion that termination was in the child’s best interest and remand this case to the trial court with instructions to conduct a thorough analysis of the best interest factors found in Tennessee Code Annotated § 36-1-113(i).

In Re The Carl Edwin Osborne, Jr. Living Trust, dated May 19, 2020

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 20:53:32 +0000

In Re The Carl Edwin Osborne, Jr. Living Trust, dated May 19, 2020

Case Number

W2024-01768-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Carma Dennis McGee

Originating Judge

Judge Kathleen N. Gomes

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The decedent left a will in which he directed the majority of his property into a trust. The
trust named his wife as the trustee. The trust made several specific distributions to wife
effective upon the decedent’s death, including the grant of life estate interests in certain
assets. Several other beneficiaries were designated to receive distributions from the life
estate assets upon wife’s death. The trust directed its remaining assets into a separate
marital trust which provided that all income generated by its property would be distributed
to wife. It also provided that the trustee would be required to distribute as much of the
principal of the marital trust to wife as she requested in writing and granted her a power of
appointment. Several of the remaining trust beneficiaries filed a petition to construe the
trust in the Shelby County probate court. They sought an order declaring that the remainder
interests of assets in which wife had been granted life estates did not pass into the marital
trust. The probate court held that the remainder interests did not pass into the marital trust
and wife could not alter or destroy them. Wife appeals. We affirm in part and reverse in
part.

In Re Carl Edwin Osborne, Jr. Living Trust -Concur in Part/Dissent in Part

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Fri, 29 May 2026 20:50:46 +0000

In Re Carl Edwin Osborne, Jr. Living Trust -Concur in Part/Dissent in Part

Case Number

W2024-01768-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Jeffrey Usman

Originating Judge

Judge Kathleen N. Gomes

Date Filed

Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The majority opinion offers a thoughtful examination of the issues before this court.
I agree fully with the majority that the failure to make an offer of proof results in the waiver
of Wife’s challenge to exclusion of the testimony of Anthony Bradley, the drafter of the
trust. Nevertheless, because I do not understand the trust to operate in the same manner as
my colleagues, I respectfully dissent.

State of Tennessee v. Jeremy Brian Poe

britney.roberson@tncourts.gov — Thu, 28 May 2026 15:30:21 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Jeremy Brian Poe

Case Number

W2025-01143-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge J. Ross Dyer

Originating Judge

Judge Kyle C. Atkins

Date Filed

Wed, 05/27/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

A Madison County jury convicted the defendant, Jeremy Brian Poe, of one count of theft of property greater than $10,000, but less than $60,000. On appeal, the defendant contends the evidence was insufficient to sustain hisconviction, and the trial court erred in sentencing the defendant as a Range III offender. Upon our review of the record, the parties’ briefs, oral argument, and the applicable law, we affirm the defendant’s conviction.However, following ourreview of the defendant’s sentence, we conclude the trial court erred in its application ofTennessee Code Annotated section 40-35-107(b)and in finding the defendant to be a Range III, persistent offender. Accordingly, the defendant’s Range III sentence requires reversal, and we remand this matter for resentencing.

State of Tennessee v. Jerrod James (In Re: AA/AAA Bonding Company)

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Thu, 28 May 2026 17:10:43 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Jerrod James (In Re: AA/AAA Bonding Company)

Case Number

W2025-00567-CCA-R3-CO

Authoring Judge

Judge J. Ross Dyer

Originating Judge

Judge Donald H. Allen

Date Filed

Wed, 05/27/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

The appellant, AA/AAA Bonding Company, appeals its suspension from writing bonds in
the Twenty-Sixth Judicial District due to its failure to comply with the applicable statutes.
Based upon the record, the parties’ briefs, and oral argument, we affirm the decision of the
trial court.

IN RE ISAIAH M

Barbara.Doud@tncourts.gov — Thu, 28 May 2026 18:33:53 +0000

IN RE ISAIAH M

Case Number

E2026-00272-COA-T10B-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge W. Neal McBrayer

Originating Judge

Chancellor Suzanne Cook

Date Filed

Wed, 05/27/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

Petitioner seeks accelerated review of the denial of her motion to recuse the trial judge.
The trial court deemed the motion repetitive. We agree.

State of Tennessee v. Jason O. Miller

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Thu, 28 May 2026 18:41:24 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Jason O. Miller

Case Number

W2025-00660-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge J. Ross Dyer

Originating Judge

Judge Kyle C. Atkins

Date Filed

Wed, 05/27/2026 - 12:00

Download PDF Version

A Madison County jury convicted the defendant, Jason O. Miller, of aggravated assault
and domestic assault, for which he received an effective sentence of eight years in
confinement to be served at 100%. On appeal, the defendant challenges the sufficiency of
the evidence supporting his conviction for aggravated assault. The State concedes that the
evidence is insufficient to support the defendant’s conviction. Upon review, we conclude
there was insufficient evidence to sustain the defendant’s conviction for aggravated assault.
However, as there was sufficient evidence to sustain a conviction of assault, we reverse the
judgment for aggravated assault, modify the conviction to assault, and remand for a new
sentencing hearing and entry of an amended judgment.