Litigation

It depends on the type of claim and how much is at stake, and the choice affects cost, speed and procedure. Our litigation practice covers:

• General Sessions Court, which handles smaller civil claims up to a dollar limit set by statute, with simpler procedures and quicker hearings.
• Circuit and Chancery Courts, Tennessee's main trial courts for larger cases. Chancery Court also hears equitable claims, such as requests for an injunction.
• Tennessee federal courts, which hear cases involving federal law and certain disputes between parties from different states. Nashville is in the Middle District of Tennessee.

When the other side is outside Tennessee, the first question is often whether a Tennessee court can hear the case at all. We covered that in I need to sue an out-of-state party. Can I sue them in Tennessee?

Much of our litigation work grows out of business relationships: contract disputes, disagreements between owners, non-compete and trade secret claims, and collecting unpaid debts. We also handle administrative matters before government agencies. Whether you are bringing a claim or defending one, we start by identifying the outcome you need and what it is likely to take to get there.

Early decisions often shape the case. Preserving documents and electronically stored information, meeting filing deadlines and choosing the right court all matter from the start. Each court also has its own rules on deadlines, discovery and appeals. If you are sued over something you said publicly, the Tennessee Public Participation Act may allow you to seek early dismissal, as discussed in More than a SLAPP on the wrist.

Many civil cases settle before trial, often through mediation. Our mediation practice can help parties reach an agreement on their own terms. If a case does go to judgment, our appeals attorneys can advise on what comes next. Mediation is generally confidential, and the parties keep control over whether and how to settle.