Judge Stephanie Williams
Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Document Limits
Courtesy Copies
Pretrial Brief
- 1 copy • Email • Upon Filing
Temporary Restraining Order
- 1 copy • Email • Upon Filing
Adjournments
- Continuances of motions should be to a specific date rather than indefinite.
- Settlement conference dates cannot be modified without Court approval; if unable to attend, notify the Special Master and file a pleading for relief.
- Witness absence is not grounds for a continuance unless the subpoena was issued at least 10 days before trial for a local witness or 14 days for an out-of-county witness.
- +7 more
Request must include
- Participants unable to attend a status conference must notify the Special Master five days in advance for rescheduling.
Communication
Chambers
Chambers
Chambers
Clerk
Phone
Chambers
Fax
Chambers
Chambers
Document Format Requirements1 rule
Every page of a pleading, brief, or memoranda filed with the Circuit Court Clerk and/or submitted directly to the Court must be numbered.
Document Filing Requirements53 rules
All divorce complaints must conform with statutory requirements as set forth in T.C.A. §36-4-106.
Divorce complaints must include date and place of separation, military status, children's ages, and a Tennessee residency jurisdictional statement.
Court's wording
In addition to the statutory requirements for a divorce complaint set forth in T.C.A. §36-4-106 the Court requires the following to be included in all divorce complaints: a. Date of Separation of the Parties b. Place of Separation of the Parties (including city, county, and state) c. Whether each party is an active member of the military d. Ages of the children (if applicable) e. Jurisdictional statement. A statement that the acts complained of were committed while the plaintiff was a bona fide resident of the State of Tennessee
All pleadings (except those served via summons) must include a certificate of service stating the date, method, address/fax/email of service, and signature.
Court's wording
With the exception of pleadings that are served via summons, all pleadings shall include a certification that the pleading has been served on the opposing party. The certification shall include: a. The date of service b. The method of service c. The address, fax number, or email address where the pleading was served d. Signature of the attorney or self-represented litigant serving the pleading
All proposed orders must include a descriptive title, an opening paragraph with hearing details, relevant findings, clear order language, and a date/signature line for the Judge.
Court's wording
All proposed orders shall include the following: a. The title of the order which reflects the nature of the order (e.g., Order on Motion for Pendente Lite Support, Order for Default Judgment and to Set, Order to Set Final Contested Hearing, Order to Waive Parenting Seminar and Mediation, Order on Motion to Compel Mediation, etc.) Under no circumstance should the order just be titled "Order." b. An opening paragraph which states the following: i. Pleading(s) that was addressed in the hearing. ii. The date the pleading was filed. iii. The date of the hearing. iv. The attorneys and parties who were present at the hearing. v. The name of the Judge or Special Master that heard the matter. c. Relevant findings of the Court. d. Clear language reflecting the Court's orders from the hearing. Do not add to the Court's ruling. e. A date and signature line for the Judge.
All motions shall include adequate information for the basis of the motion, why the movant is entitled to relief, and the specific relief requested.
All Motions for Default, where service was obtained via publication, must have on file copies of the clippings reflecting the publication or an affidavit from the printer confirming the publication dates.
All Motions shall state the underlying Complaint or Petition that is pending.
If the issue raised by the motion raises a question of law, legal analysis and argument shall be provided in the motion by separate memorandum of law or a brief.
In motions to set support, sworn income and expense statements must be exchanged by specified deadlines before the hearing and provided to the Court at the hearing.
- Document
- Motion to set support
Must include
- •Sworn income and expense statement and income documentation
Court's wording
In all motions to set support, the movant's sworn income and expense statement and income documentation must be provided to the adverse party by 5:00 p.m. on the Monday before the motion hearing. The non-movant shall provide a sworn income and expense statement and income documentation to the movant by 12:00 p.m. on the Thursday before the motion hearing. Both parties must provide their respective sworn income and expense statements and income documentation to the Court at the time of the motion hearing.
Motions to Set and Motions for Default in divorce cases with children or parenting time modifications must include a filed and served Proposed Parenting Plan, with service reflected in a certificate of service.
- Document
- Motion to set or default
Must include
- •Certificate of service
Court's wording
Motions to Set and Motions for Default in divorce cases with children and in cases where a modification of parenting time is requested must have a Proposed Parenting Plan filed and served on the adverse party along with the motion, or 14 days before the motion hearing, before the motion will be granted. Service may be effectuated by mailing a copy of the Proposed Parenting Plan to the adverse party at their last known address. The same should be reflected in a certificate of service on the Proposed Parenting Plan.
All Motions to Compel Discovery responses shall describe in detail the good-faith and written efforts made to resolve the matters alleged prior to filing the Motion and deficient.
All motions must include specific language about the hearing date, time, and the Final Motion Docket.
Court's wording
All motions shall include the following language: THIS MOTION IS EXPECTED TO BE HEARD ON ________________ (insert date), AT 9:00 A.M. THE COURT MAY SET A DIFFERENT HEARING TIME AT ITS DISCRETION. ALL HEARING TIMES WILL BE POSTED ON THE FINAL MOTION DOCKET, BY 12:00 P.M., ON THE TUESDAY IMMEDIATELY PRECEDING THE MOTION DATE. PLEASE REFER TO THE FINAL MOTION DOCKET LOCATED ON THE CIRCUIT COURT CLERK'S WEBSITE https://circuitclerk.nashville.gov/dockets/ TO CONFIRM THE HEARING TIME.
All motions shall include relevant affidavits, deposition excerpts, discovery responses, proposed temporary parenting schedules, proposed scheduling orders, or all other factual material in which the moving party relies for the relief requested.
All Motions for Scheduling Orders, including the extension of a scheduling order, must include a proposed scheduling order.
- Document
- Motion for scheduling order
Must include
- •Proposed scheduling order
If it is expected that a hearing on a motion may exceed 30 minutes, please specify the same in the motion, along with the anticipated amount of time it will take to conduct the hearing.
Motions requesting support require sworn income and expense statements, which must be provided to the Court at the hearing.
Court's wording
Sworn income and expense statements are required for motions requesting support and will generally serve as testimony as to need and ability to pay. The movant’s sworn income and expense statement, along with documentation supporting their income, must be provided to the adverse party by 5:00 p.m. on the Monday before the motion hearing. The non-movant shall provide a sworn income and expense statement, along with documentation supporting their income, to the movant by 12:00 p.m. on the Thursday before the motion hearing. These timelines may be waived by agreement. Both parties must provide sworn income and expense statements to the Court at the time of the motion hearing, along with documentation supporting their respective incomes.
Motions to compel must describe good-faith efforts to resolve disputes and specify deficient responses.
Court's wording
All motions to compel discovery responses shall describe in detail the good-faith, written efforts made to resolve the matters alleged prior to filing the motion and must state with specificity the discovery responses that are alleged to be deficient.
All requests for Temporary Restraining Orders must be accompanied by an underlying petition or complaint (if one is not already pending).
All proposed Temporary Restraining Orders shall include a line for the date and time of entry and a signature line for the Judge.
All matters requesting a Temporary Restraining Order shall include a proposed Order to Appear and Show Cause.
TRO applications must include verified facts, state it is the first application, and include a notice affidavit with certification.
Court's wording
Rule 65.03: Facts Needed—Present or imminent circumstances that will result in immediate and irreparable harm before notice can be served and a hearing held under certain conditions as specified above—TRCP 65.03(1) Facts Must Be Sworn To—The filing of a verified complaint or application supported by affidavits—TRCP 65.03(1) Must State It Is The First Application for Such Relief—T.C.A. § 29-1-107 Notice Affidavit—Include Verification in Complaint and Separate Certification on Notice—“[S]pecific facts in an affidavit or verified complaint clearly show that immediate and irreparable injury . . . will result to applicant before the adverse party can be heard in opposition” AND certification in writing “that efforts were made to give notice and the reasons why it should not be required. T.R.C.P. 65.03(1).
Follow-up conference dates must be included in the status conference order.
All Irreconcilable Differences (ID) Divorces must be set for a final hearing date via an Order to Set. This is true even if appearance is being waived at the final hearing.
The Order to Set for an Irreconcilable Differences divorce must include specific information such as filing dates, agreement dates, hearing date, and proof of service.
Court's wording
C. THE ORDER TO SET IRRECONCILABLE DIFFERENCES DIVORCES SHALL STATE THE FOLLOWING: 1. That the matter is being set on the Court’s Irreconcilable Differences Divorce Docket. 2. The date the Complaint for Divorce was filed with the Circuit Court Clerk. 3. The Complaint has been pending for the requisite statutory period. 4. The date the Notice of Insurance was filed with the Circuit Court Clerk. 5. The date that a Marital Dissolution Agreement was signed by the parties and filed with the Circuit Court Clerk. 6. If applicable, the date that the Agreed Parenting Plan and Child Support Worksheet were signed by both parties and filed with the Circuit Court Clerk. 7. The date and time of the final hearing. 8. A date and signature line for the Judge’s signature. 9. Proof of service at least 11 days prior to the final hearing date, unless it is an Agreed Order and an earlier date has been approved by the Court.
To waive appearance at an ID divorce final hearing, a party must submit an affidavit using the specified form language.
Court's wording
To waive appearance at the final hearing of an Irreconcilable Differences divorce, the party being granted the divorce must submit an affidavit that includes the language contained in the following form: Fourth Circuit Court Affidavit to Waive Appearance at Final ID Divorce Hearing.
If waiving appearance, a Final Decree of Divorce must be submitted prior to the hearing date.
A motion to set must be filed for all contested matters and must contain specified information including nature of litigation, dates, service details, and expected hearing time.
Court's wording
For any and all contested matters, a motion to set requesting permission to obtain a court date on the contested docket must be filed. Said motion shall contain the following information: a. Nature of litigation (e.g., divorce, post-divorce modification, petition for contempt, child support modification, juvenile court appeal, adoption, etc.) b. Date the pending matter was initiated c. Date and manner of service (e.g., personal service, publication, certified mail, etc.) d. Date of filing of any and all responsive pleadings and any other pleadings that are at issue e. Date mediation report was filed (if applicable) f. Date parenting seminar certificate was filed (if applicable) g. Date Notice of Insurance was filed by each party (if applicable) h. Date proposed Parenting Plan was filed by each party (if applicable) i. Date Certificate of Readiness (COR) was filed and signed by both parties or their respective attorney (if represented). If only one party has executed the COR, a statement as to why it is not executed by both parties j. A statement that all pleadings have been properly served and appropriate responses filed and that all discovery has been completed k. The amount of time expected for the final hearing
Each party must file specified pretrial documents 72 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) before the scheduled contested hearing.
Court's wording
The following documents must be filed by each party 72 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) prior to the scheduled contested hearing: 1. Statement of contested issues 2. Joint Asset and liability statement reflecting the parties' proposed disposition of each item of marital property and allocation of each marital debt (only 1 needs to be filed by either party) 3. Proposal for relief 4. Income and expense statement (if applicable) 5. Proposed Permanent Parenting Plan (if applicable) 6. Any other filing required by the Court as advised at the Pretrial Conference (if applicable)
Orders on motions should contain the required language set forth in Section VI (B) on page 10.
An Order to Set must be entered scheduling a termination of parental rights case for final hearing.
Order to Set must contain language notifying consenting parents they must appear at final hearing or rights may be terminated.
Court's wording
In the case of a non-relative consent adoption pursuant to T.C.A. § 36-1-117(g), et. seq., the Order to Set must contain language notifying the consenting parents they must appear at the final hearing or the Court may terminate their rights pursuant to any termination grounds available pursuant to T.C.A. § 36-1-113. The exact language from T.C.A. § 36-1-117(g)(3) may be used in the order.
Two separate orders must be filed: one terminating parental rights and one final order of adoption.
Court's wording
Two (2) separate orders must be filed in all cases in which a petition is filed for termination of parental rights and adoption: one (1) order terminating parental rights and one (1) final order of adoption.
In default judgments, a court reporter is required and transcript must be filed with the order; order not entered until transcript filed.
Court's wording
In the case of a default judgment, a court reporter is required at the final hearing. A transcript of the default termination proceedings must be filed with the order terminating parental rights. The order terminating parental rights will not be entered until the transcript is filed.
Order to Waive must include all order requirements from Section VI(B) and cite statutory grounds; no motion required.
Court's wording
If an adoption case meets the statutory requirements for waiver of the home study, order of reference, and six-month waiting period, an Order to Waive must be entered entered by the Court but no motion is required. The order must include all order requirements as set forth in Section VI(B) on page 10 and must cite the applicable statutory grounds for waiver.
Orders terminating parental rights must include Court's findings and state it is a final appealable order.
Court's wording
Orders terminating parental rights must include the Court’s findings as required by T.C.A. § 36-1-113, and the order must state it is a ‘final appealable order.’ There is no just reason for delay in entry of a Final Judgment against Respondent pursuant to Tennessee Rule of Civil Procedure 54.02.
If any of these items will be filed on the day of the final hearing, the Order to Set must identify the item(s) to be filed on the day of the final hearing and state that the item(s) will be filed on the date of the final hearing.
Prior to entry of an Order to Set an adoption for final hearing, the petitioner fee disclosure, attorney fee disclosure, and certificate of adoption ($30.00 fee), must be filed with the Circuit Court Clerk’s office.
If consenting parents do not appear, a court reporter must transcribe proceedings and transcript must be filed with the order.
Court's wording
If consenting parents do not appear at the hearing, a court reporter is required to transcribe the termination proceedings. A transcript of the termination proceedings must be filed with the order terminating parental rights.
An Order to Set must be entered scheduling an adoption case for final hearing.
To waive appearance at an adult adoption final hearing, each adoptive parent and the adoptee must submit an affidavit containing the specified form language.
Court's wording
To waive appearance at the final hearing in an adult adoption proceeding, the adoptive parent(s) and adoptee must each submit an affidavit that includes the language contained in the following form: Fourth Circuit Court Adoptive Parent Affidavit to Waive Appearance at Final Hearing and Adoptee Affidavit to Waive Appearance at Final Hearing.
All pleadings must include a title that is reflective of the nature of the pleading in a manner that is easy to ascertain the substance of the pleading.
All pleadings must include a docket number. This shall not apply to initial pleadings that have not yet been assigned a docket number.
- Document
- Pleading
Must include
- •Case number
The case style must remain consistent across all pleadings; changes require a court order.
Court's wording
The order and spelling of the names of the parties in the style of the case shall always remain the same regardless of the pleading that is filed. Any changes to the style of the case may only occur after an order approving the change is entered.
All pleadings must include a signature block with the filer's name, party represented, BPR number (for attorneys), address, phone, and email.
Court's wording
All pleadings shall include a signature block for the attorney or self-represented litigant filing the pleading. The signature block shall include: a. Name of the person filing the pleading b. Party the attorney represents (if applicable) c. Board of Professional Responsibility (BPR) number (if an attorney) d. Address of the person filing the pleading e. Phone number of the person filing the pleading f. Email address of the person filing the pleading
If signing an order with permission of opposing counsel, the order must still be sent to the opposing counsel and a Certificate of Service reflecting the same.
- Document
- Proposed order
Must include
- •Certificate of service
Pretrial briefs must include procedural history, party's position summary, applicable laws/cases with copies, and other helpful information.
Court's wording
Pretrial briefs shall include the following: a. Procedural history of the case b. A summary of the party's position on the contested cases c. A reference to applicable laws or cases (with copies of cases included) d. Anything else that would aid the Court in the preparation of the trial
Each party must deliver an ex parte Judicial Settlement Conference Statement to the Special Master at least 72 hours before the conference, including settlement position, factors, and case assessment.
Court's wording
At least 72 hours (three (3) business days) prior to the Judicial Settlement Conference, each party shall deliver an ex parte Judicial Settlement Conference Statement directly to the Special Master. The statement shall be furnished only to the Special Master, not the other party, and shall NOT be filed with the Circuit Court Clerk. The Judicial Settlement Conference Statement shall include a summary of the party’s position for settlement, factors compelling or blocking settlement, and a candid assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the case.
Firearms Declaration must be filed even if no firearms; if firearms owned, must include contact info of person holding them.
Court's wording
Even if the Respondent does not own or possess firearms, they must file this form. If the Respondent is a firearms owner, they must include the name, address, and telephone contact information of the person to whom they have transported the firearms for safe keeping while the OP is in effect.
Orders of Continuance must include the new hearing date and a certificate of service to all parties and attorneys.
- Document
- Order of continuance
Must include
- •Certificate of service
Court's wording
All Orders of Continuance shall include the new hearing date. No Orders of Continuance will be approved or signed without a specific new hearing date included in the Order with a certificate of service to all parties and attorneys.
Motions for Publication must include the required affidavit per T.C.A. § 36-1-117(m)(3) and comply with Section VII (B)(9).
Court's wording
Motions for Publication in termination of parental rights and adoption cases must have the required affidavit in compliance with T.C.A. § 36-1-117(m)(3) in addition to the requirements set forth in Section VII (B)(9) on page 13.
All motions should contain the required information set forth in Section VII (B) on page 12.
If waiving appearance, the Order to Set should state the parties' intention to file the required affidavits and waive their appearance at the final hearing.
All final orders of adoption must comply with the requirements of T.C.A. § 36-1-120.
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
The Clerk must electronically file the Domestic Status Conference Order.
The Circuit Court Clerk’s Office shall electronically file the Domestic Status Conference Order
Page 24 | A. SCHEDULING
All status conference orders should be e-filed with the Davidson County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office and served according to the Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure.
All status conference orders should be e-filed with the Davidson County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office and served according to the Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure.
Page 25 | B. STATUS CONFERENCE ORDERS
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
A motion for default may not be filed until the response time has expired.
A Motion for Default shall not be filed until the time for response has expired.
Page 13 | VII. Pretrial Motions
Motions to amend a status conference order must be filed within 5 business days; late motions are denied without a hearing.
Attorneys and litigants who disagree with the recommendations of the Special Master should file a motion with the Court to amend the status conference order within five (5) business days of the status conference. Any such motion filed more than five (5) business days after the status conference shall be denied without a hearing.
Page 25 | B. STATUS CONFERENCE ORDERS
Orders should be filed within five (5) business days of the status conference unless otherwise directed by the Special Master.
Orders should be filed within five (5) business days of the status conference unless otherwise directed by the Special Master.
Page 25 | B. STATUS CONFERENCE ORDERS
B. Matters that are being conducted based on default judgment shall be set by an order filed no earlier than 14 days (including weekends and holidays) prior to the hearing date.
B. Matters that are being conducted based on default judgment shall be set by an order filed no earlier than 14 days (including weekends and holidays) prior to the hearing date.
Page 28 | Default Divorce Final Hearings
Order to Set must be filed within 10 business days of confirming conference and trial dates, or the dates may be lost.
Once a Motion to Set has been granted, attorneys shall contact the Court's staff to obtain a Judicial Settlement Conference date (if required) Pretrial Conference date and trial date(s). Once ALL dates are confirmed, the Order to Set shall be drafted and filed. Failure to file an Order to Set within 10 business days of confirming the judicial settlement conference, pretrial conference, and trial dates may result in loss of the dates given.
Page 29 | A. SETTING OF CONTESTED MATTERS
Pretrial filings must be filed 72 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) before the scheduled contested hearing.
The following documents must be filed by each party 72 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) prior to the scheduled contested hearing: 1. Statement of contested issues 2. Joint Asset and liability statement reflecting the parties' proposed disposition of each item of marital property and allocation of each marital debt (only 1 needs to be filed by either party) 3. Proposal for relief 4. Income and expense statement (if applicable) 5. Proposed Permanent Parenting Plan (if applicable) 6. Any other filing required by the Court as advised at the Pretrial Conference (if applicable)
Page 30 | D. OTHER PRETRIAL FILINGS
Pretrial briefs must be filed with the Circuit Court Clerk at least 72 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) before the scheduled hearing.
Pretrial briefs are to be filed in all contested cases (unless otherwise excused by the Court). All pretrial briefs shall be filed with the Circuit Court Clerk at least 72 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) prior to the scheduled hearing.
Page 30 | C. PRETRIAL BRIEFS
Respondent must file a Firearms Declaration with the Circuit Court Clerk within 48 hours of the Order of Protection's issuance.
If an Order of Protection is granted against the Respondent, they must file a Firearms Declaration with the Circuit Court Clerk’s office within 48 hours of its issuance.
Page 40 | Firearms Declaration
Either party may file a Notice of Rehearing within 5 days of the Special Master's ruling for a de novo hearing.
Either party has a right to file a Notice of Rehearing within five (5) days of the Special Master’s ruling to secure a de novo hearing before Judge Phillip Robinson for Third Circuit cases and before Judge Stephanie J. Williams for Fourth Circuit cases.
Page 43 | M. REHEARINGS OF ORDERS OF PROTECTION
All motions should be filed 14 days in advance of the requested hearing date.
All motions should be filed 14 days in advance of the requested hearing date.
Page 44 | B. MOTIONS FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS AND ADOPTION CASES
Attorneys for Petitioners must file motions for scheduling order, GAL appointment, and indigency determination within 5 business days of the Answer.
Upon the filing of an Answer (or any other responsive pleading) filed in response to a petition for termination of parental rights and petition for adoption, attorneys for Petitioners must file a Motion for a Scheduling Order, a Motion to Appoint a Guardian Ad Litem, and a Motion for Indigency Determination within five (5) business days of the filing of the Answer.
Page 44 | A. FILING TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS AND ADOPTION CASES
Orders to Set must be filed at least 11 days before the final hearing, including holidays and weekends.
Orders to Set a final hearing in all termination of parental rights and adoption cases must be filed a minimum of 11 days (including holidays and weekends) prior to the final hearing date.
Page 45 | Termination of Parental Rights & Adoption Matters
A certified copy of the Final Order of Adoption may be obtained from the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office on the date of the final hearing so long as the proposed order is e-filed with the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office no later than 4:30 p.m. on the Wednesday preceding the final hearing date.
A certified copy of the Final Order of Adoption may be obtained from the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office on the date of the final hearing so long as the proposed order is e-filed with the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office no later than 4:30 p.m. on the Wednesday preceding the final hearing date.
Page 45 | Termination of Parental Rights & Adoption Matters
Orders for Default must be filed at least 11 days before the final hearing, including holidays and weekends.
Orders for Default in all termination of parental rights and adoption cases must be filed a minimum of 11 days (including holidays and weekends) prior to the final hearing date.
Page 45 | Termination of Parental Rights & Adoption Matters
When waiving appearance, the proposed Final Order of Adoption and all affidavits must be filed with the Circuit Court Clerk's Office no later than the Wednesday preceding the final hearing.
If waiving appearance, a proposed Final Order of Adoption and all affidavits must be filed with the Circuit Court Clerk's Office no later than the Wednesday preceding the final hearing date.
Page 47 | XXII. Termination of Parental Rights & Adoption Matters
The Final Motion Docket assigning specific time blocks is published by 12:00 p.m. on the Tuesday before the Motion Docket.
While all motions are noticed for a 9:00 a.m. docket call, a Final Motion Docket that assigns motions to specific time blocks is published on the Circuit Court Clerk's website by 12:00 p.m. on the Tuesday before the Motion Docket.
Page 14 | VII. Pretrial Motions
Resolved motions are assigned an 8:58 a.m. time slot; no appearance is necessary and an order may be submitted as if granted.
8:58 a.m.: Resolved Motions. Motions that are automatically granted without a hearing will be found at the beginning of the docket and are assigned the time of 8:58 a.m. The heading for the page will read "RESOLVED MOTIONS." If a case is reflected on this page, no appearance is necessary, and an Order on the motion may be submitted as if the motion was
Page 14 | VII. Pretrial Motions
In cases involving an indigent party or parties where a court reporter must be hired with the approval of the Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts, all motions for such approval must be filed contemporaneously with a Motion to Set.
In cases involving an indigent party or parties where a court reporter must be hired with the approval of the Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts, all motions for such approval must be filed contemporaneously with a Motion to Set.
Page 31 | XIII. Contested Final Hearings
Parties must deliver the settlement conference statement at least 72 hours (3 business days) before the conference.
At least 72 hours (three (3) business days) prior to the Judicial Settlement Conference, each party shall deliver an ex parte Judicial Settlement Conference Statement directly to the Special Master.
Page 32 | XIV. Judicial Settlement Conferences
Service and Proof of Service Rules
Movant must provide sworn income and expense statement to adverse party by 5:00 p.m. Monday before hearing; non-movant by 12:00 p.m. Thursday before hearing.
Sworn income and expense statements are required for motions requesting support and will generally serve as testimony as to need and ability to pay. The movant’s sworn income and expense statement, along with documentation supporting their income, must be provided to the adverse party by 5:00 p.m. on the Monday before the motion hearing. The non-movant shall provide a sworn income and expense statement, along with documentation supporting their income, to the movant by 12:00 p.m. on the Thursday before the motion hearing. These timelines may be waived by agreement. Both parties must provide sworn income and expense statements to the Court at the time of the motion hearing, along with documentation supporting their respective incomes.
Page 18 | Testimony During Motion Hearings
The Circuit Court Clerk’s Office shall electronically file the Domestic Status Conference Order and serve a copy of the order by mail to all self- represented litigants and counsel of record.
The Circuit Court Clerk’s Office shall electronically file the Domestic Status Conference Order and serve a copy of the order by mail to all self- represented litigants and counsel of record.
Page 24 | A. SCHEDULING
All status conference orders should be e-filed with the Davidson County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office and served according to the Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure.
All status conference orders should be e-filed with the Davidson County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office and served according to the Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure.
Page 25 | B. STATUS CONFERENCE ORDERS
Proof of service must be at least 11 days before the final hearing, unless an Agreed Order with court approval allows an earlier date.
Proof of service at least 11 days prior to the final hearing date, unless it is an Agreed Order and an earlier date has been approved by the Court.
Page 27 | Irreconcilable Differences Divorces Final Hearings
Consenting parents must be served a copy of the order and given 10 days' notice to appear.
The consenting parents must be served a copy of the order and given the required 10 days’ notice to appear at the hearing.
Page 45 | Termination of Parental Rights & Adoption Matters
Filing Fees and Waivers
Certificate of adoption requires a $30.00 fee, and fee disclosures must be filed before Order to Set.
Prior to entry of an Order to Set an adoption for final hearing, the petitioner fee disclosure, attorney fee disclosure, and certificate of adoption ($30.00 fee), must be filed with the Circuit Court Clerk’s office.
Page 45 | Termination of Parental Rights & Adoption Matters
Courtesy Copy Requirements
Upon filing a TRO, counsel must email a courtesy copy to ronnellgriffin@jisnashville.gov.
Upon filing the same, please call chambers at: 615-862-5910 AND email a courtesy copy to: ronnellgriffin@jisnashville.gov to ensure timely and prompt attention to the request.
Page 22 | TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS
A chamber copy of the pretrial brief must be delivered or emailed to the Judicial Assistant after filing.
Once the brief is filed in the Circuit Court Clerk's office, a chamber copy shall be delivered or emailed to the Judicial Assistant, Ronnell Griffin, at ronnellgriffin@jisnashville.gov.
Page 30 | C. PRETRIAL BRIEFS
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
Judicial Settlement Conferences are mandatory in all contested cases, scheduled after a Motion to Set is granted, with the date included in the Order to Set.
Judicial Settlement Conferences are conducted by the Special Master and are mandatory in all contested cases. Judicial Settlement Conferences are scheduled after a Motion to Set is granted, and the date of the settlement conference must be included in the Order to Set the matter for final hearing. Attorneys and self- represented litigants must contact Ms. Ronnell Griffin by telephone: 615-862-5910 or e-mail: ronnellgriffin@jisnashville.gov to obtain Judicial Settlement Conference dates.
Page 31 | XIV. Judicial Settlement Conferences
Cases not resolved in Judicial Settlement Conference proceed to a remote Pretrial Conference with Judge Williams to discuss procedure and deadlines.
If a case is not fully resolved in the Judicial Settlement Conference, the case then proceeds to a Pretrial Conference with Judge Williams. This conference is conducted remotely using Microsoft Teams and is utilized to discuss procedure, order of proof, time constraints, deadlines for required filings, and other preliminary matters prior to the commencement of trial. Only attorneys for the parties and self-represented litigants are required to participate in the Pretrial Conference.
Page 30 | B. PRETRIAL CONFERENCE
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Participants unable to attend a status conference must notify the Special Master five days in advance for rescheduling.
If participants are unable to attend the status conference on the scheduled date or at the specified time, the Special Master must be notified five (5) days before the scheduled status conference, and the conference will be rescheduled.
Page 25 | X. Status Conference Docket
Contested cases and judicial settlement conferences require good cause shown by motion and affidavit; parties cannot agree to a continuance without court permission.
Contested cases and judicial settlement conferences will only be continued upon a showing of good cause accompanied by motion and affidavit. Parties may not agree to a continuance without Court permission, but the Court will routinely grant continuances of motions, Show Cause hearings, and most contempt hearings (especially on first settings).
Page 37 | XIX. Continuances and Extensions
Continuances of motions should be to a specific date rather than indefinite.
Continuances of motions should be to a date certain versus indefinitely.
Page 20 | F. MOTION ANNOUNCEMENTS: CONTINUANCES, STRIKES, AGREED ORDERS, ETC.
Settlement conference dates cannot be modified without Court approval; if unable to attend, notify the Special Master and file a pleading for relief.
Judicial Settlement Conferences are set by order of the Court. The Special Master does not have authority to reschedule, delay, reset, cancel, or otherwise modify the Judicial Settlement Conference date without Court approval. NO EXCEPTIONS. If you cannot attend the Judicial Settlement Conference as ordered, you should immediately notify the Special Master and file the appropriate pleading requesting relief from the Court. Please note there is no guarantee relief will be granted just because a request is made.
Page 31 | XIV. Judicial Settlement Conferences
A continued case must be set for a date certain, and the order must state the reason for the continuance.
If a case is continued, it must be continued to a date certain. The reason for the continuance must be contained in the order.
Page 37 | XIX. Continuances and Extensions
In cases set by agreement or without objection, incomplete discovery, inability to take depositions, or incomplete trial preparation are not grounds for a continuance.
When a case is set by agreement or set upon motion without objection, failure to have completed discovery, inability to take a deposition or failure to have completed any other trial preparation will not be a cause for a continuance.
Page 37 | XIX. Continuances and Extensions
Witness absence is not grounds for a continuance unless the subpoena was issued at least 10 days before trial for a local witness or 14 days for an out-of-county witness.
Absence of a witness will not be a cause for continuance unless the subpoena has been issued and dated 10 days prior to a trial for a local witness and 14 days for an out-of- county witness, pursuant to Local Rule 28.02.
Page 37 | XIX. Continuances and Extensions
Continuance correspondence must state the basis and all communications with opposing counsel; matters set by agreement require good cause, while court-set or unilaterally-set matters are liberally granted.
The correspondence shall contain the basis for the request for the continuance and set forth all communication with opposing counsel regarding the request for continuance. If the matter in question was set by agreement, the matter will be continued only for good cause. If the matter requested was set by the Court without input from attorneys for the parties (i.e., a Show Cause Order) or if the matter was set unilaterally by attorneys opposing the continuance (i.e., a motion hearing), the Court will be inclined to liberally grant the continuance.
Page 37 | XIX. Continuances and Extensions
Continuance agreements must be presented to and approved by the Court; all parties must be present for continuance requests unless the Court approves otherwise.
Any agreement to continue the matter between parties and/or their attorneys must be presented to and approved by the Court prior to or at the initial hearing date. All parties are to be present in court for any continuance requests unless approved by the Court prior to the hearing date.
Page 40 | D. Order of Protection Hearings
First-time continuance requests are liberally granted.
First time continuance requests are liberally granted.
Page 13 | VII. Pretrial Motions
The Court may award expenses and attorney's fees, including witness compensation, when granting a continuance.
If a continuance is granted, the Court may award expenses and attorney's fees, including compensation to witnesses for lost income and/or travel expenses, and tax the same as court costs.
Page 37 | XIX. Continuances and Extensions
Chambers Communication Rules
Discussing the merits of a pending case with court staff is strictly prohibited unless otherwise allowed in the Chamber Rules.
Unless otherwise allowed in these Chamber Rules, discussing the merits of a pending case with a staff member is strictly prohibited.
Page 7 | IV. Correspondence with the Court
Please be sure to call chambers at: 615-862-5910 or email: ronnellgriffin@jisnashville.gov to provide information on docket announcements (e.g., continuance, agreed order, strike, etc.). This should be done even if a notice or Agreed Order has been filed, as the Court does not receive these notices.
Please be sure to call chambers at: 615-862-5910 or email: ronnellgriffin@jisnashville.gov to provide information on docket announcements (e.g., continuance, agreed order, strike, etc.). This should be done even if a notice or Agreed Order has been filed, as the Court does not receive these notices.
Page 20 | F. MOTION ANNOUNCEMENTS: CONTINUANCES, STRIKES, AGREED ORDERS, ETC.
Docket announcements must be made to the Court by 8:45 a.m. on the Friday of the motion hearing, or announced in open court that day.
Please be sure to notify the Court of these announcements no later than 8:45 a.m. the Friday of the Motion hearing; otherwise, you may announce in open court the day of the hearing.
Page 20 | F. MOTION ANNOUNCEMENTS: CONTINUANCES, STRIKES, AGREED ORDERS, ETC.
Upon filing the same, please call chambers at: 615-862-5910 AND email a courtesy copy to: ronnellgriffin@jisnashville.gov to ensure timely and prompt attention to the request.
Upon filing the same, please call chambers at: 615-862-5910 AND email a courtesy copy to: ronnellgriffin@jisnashville.gov to ensure timely and prompt attention to the request.
Page 22 | TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS
Opposed continuance requests must be made by written correspondence to Judicial Assistant Ronnell Griffin via email.
All requests for continuances which are opposed shall be made by written correspondence to the Court's Judicial Assistant, Ronnell Griffin, at ronnellgriffin@jisnashville.gov.
Page 37 | XIX. Continuances and Extensions
Substantive communications may be made by email to court staff with opposing counsel copied when timing prevents formal filings.
When timing does not allow for communication with the Court in a formal pleading, notice memoranda, or in open court, communication with the Court regarding a substantive or fact specific matter of a case, including a matter to be considered by the Judge outside of a formal hearing, may take place via email to the appropriate staff person with opposing counsel copied (or opposing party if a self-represented litigant).
Page 7 | IV. Correspondence with the Court
Parties unable to attend by video must contact the Special Master at least 5 business days in advance to arrange alternatives.
If you are unable to attend the Status Conference Docket by video, you must contact the Special Master no later than five (5) business days in advance of your scheduled conference to make alternative arrangements, this includes any request to appear by phone rather than video.
Page 24 | A. SCHEDULING
Proposed orders may be emailed to the Special Master for review, but must not be sent for filing.
Proposed orders may be emailed to the Special Master for review prior to e- filing or as directed by the Special Master. DO NOT send proposed orders to the Special Master for filing.
Page 25 | B. STATUS CONFERENCE ORDERS
All parties must be copied on electronic communications to the Special Master; ex parte communications allowed for scheduling, administrative, and emergency purposes at Special Master's discretion.
Please ensure all parties and/or their a are copied on all written and electronic communications to the Special Master and likewise ensure all parties are on the line for any call to the Special Master. No party or other person should communicate with the Special Master regarding a case without notice and opportunity for all parties to participate in such communications. Ex parte communications for scheduling, administrative and emergency purposes may occur from time to time if the Special Master determines such communications are necessary and will not disadvantage another party. All such ex parte communications are at the discretion of the Special Master.
Page 46 | D. Communication with the Special Master
The court's office email address is fourthcircuitwebteam@jisnashville.gov.
5. Office Email fourthcircuitwebteam@jisnashville.gov
Page 4 | A. CONTACT INFORMATION
Phone calls to the court are directed to voicemail during staff meetings on Thursdays from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Please note: Staff meetings are conducted from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. every Thursday. Phone calls will be directed to voicemail during this time.
Page 4 | B. OFFICE HOURS
The court's office fax number is 615-214-2154.
4. Office Fax 615-214-2154
Page 4 | A. CONTACT INFORMATION
The court's office phone number is 615-862-5910.
3. Office Phone 615-862-5910
Page 4 | A. CONTACT INFORMATION
The court office is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The normal office hours for the Court are as follows: Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Friday 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Page 4 | B. OFFICE HOURS
Court prefers all matters be communicated via formal pleadings with adverse party copied, or in open court.
It is the preference of the Court that all matters be communicated to the Court in pleadings, notices, and memoranda, with the adverse party copied accordingly, or in open court.
Page 7 | IV. Correspondence with the Court
Non-substantive matters may be communicated by email to court staff.
Matters that are not substantive and request general direction, scheduling, administration, procedure, or general assistance from court staff may be communicated via written email correspondence to a staff member of the Court or a telephone call to the Court's chambers.
Page 7 | IV. Correspondence with the Court
Contact Ms. Ronnell Griffin by phone or email to obtain Judicial Settlement Conference dates.
Attorneys and self-represented litigants must contact Ms. Ronnell Griffin by telephone: 615-862-5910 or e-mail: ronnellgriffin@jisnashville.gov to obtain Judicial Settlement Conference dates.
Page 31 | XIV. Judicial Settlement Conferences
Contact OP Clerk Kelli Olin (or alternate clerks) via email for questions about OP hearings or if you will be late.
Please contact OP Clerk Kelli Olin at kolin@jisnashville.gov for any questions regarding your hearing or if you anticipate that you will be late to court. If Ms. Olin is out of the office, you may also contact one of the following clerks: Aaliyah Muller at aaliyahnmuller@jisnashville.gov; Zac Rogers at zacharyrrogers@jisnashville.gov; or Jessi Emens at jessiemens@jisnashville.gov.
Page 43 | L. CONTACTING THE COURT REGARDING ORDERS OF PROTECTION
Individuals interested in guardian ad litem or indigent representation appointments in TPR/adoption cases should contact Special Master Kristen Menke or Coordinator Bekah Haralson by email.
Individuals interested in accepting an appointment to represent indigent respondents and/or to serve as guardian ad litem in termination of parental rights and adoption cases, please contact Special Master Kristen Menke at: kristenemenke@jisnashville.gov or the Court Improvement and Communications Coordinator, Bekah Haralson, at: rebekahlharalson@jisnashville.gov.
Page 47 | XXII. Termination of Parental Rights & Adoption Matters
ID divorce final hearing dates may be scheduled by calling chambers at 615-862-5910; the date will follow the 11-day rule unless an Agreed Order.
Via Phone. A request to set an ID Divorce for a final hearing may be made by calling the chambers of the Fourth Circuit Court at: 615-862-5910 and speaking with a staff member. Unless there is an Agreed Order, the date provided via phone will also follow the 11 day rule.
Page 27 | Irreconcilable Differences Divorces Final Hearings