Glossary
Detainer Warrant
The court filing used to seek possession of property from an occupant, commonly called an eviction.
Also called: eviction, unlawful detainer
A detainer warrant is filed in General Sessions Court and sets a hearing, usually within a short number of days. It is the lawful route to recovering possession; self-help measures such as changing locks or removing belongings are not permitted, whatever the lease says.
Proper notice usually has to come first, and the notice required depends on the ground. Non-payment, a lease violation, and the end of a tenancy are treated differently.
At the hearing the court decides who is entitled to possession, and may also address unpaid rent and damages. Either side can generally appeal to Circuit Court within the statutory period, which means a case that looks concluded may not be.
General information about Tennessee law, not legal advice. How this applies depends on the facts of your matter.
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