(a) In all misdemeanor cases where bond is made for appearance before the court of general sessions, the judge is authorized and empowered to prescribe the amount of bail, either cash or otherwise, within the same discretionary powers as are granted to judges of the circuit and criminal courts by § 40-11-204.
Terms Used In Tennessee Code 40-4-117
Bail: Security given for the release of a criminal defendant or witness from legal custody (usually in the form of money) to secure his/her appearance on the day and time appointed.
Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
(b) Upon default in appearance of the defendant, the judge before whom the default occurs is authorized to grant relief, lessen or remit liability upon the recognizance in such cases as provided for other courts in §§ 40-11-203 and 40-11-204; and, in the case of cash bonds, the judge may hear proof and order a fine and costs paid out of the cash bond.(c) The unused surplus of cash bonds and other funds in excess of costs paid for exoneration of sureties shall be disbursed by the clerk as provided by law for forfeitures.
