Terms Used In Tennessee Code 40-13-205

  • Common law: The legal system that originated in England and is now in use in the United States. It is based on judicial decisions rather than legislative action.
  • Indictment: The formal charge issued by a grand jury stating that there is enough evidence that the defendant committed the crime to justify having a trial; it is used primarily for felonies.

In an indictment for an offense which was indictable at common law, the offense may be charged or described substantially as at common law; or it will be sufficient to describe the offense according to the general rules laid down in this chapter.