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§ 36-3-108. Forced marriage prohibited -- Civil action.

TN Code § 36-3-108 (2019) (N/A)
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(a) Marriage, at any age, that is entered into without valid, freely-given consent from both parties is contrary to the public policy of this state and shall be void and unenforceable in this state.

(b) A person who is forced, whether by violence, threats, or coercion, to marry another shall have a cause of action against any party who forced the person to marry. A claim under this section shall not be based on parental or familial guidance motivated by the person's best interest, which is expressed in a reasonable manner.

(c) Damages for a claim under this section shall include:

(1) Liquidated damages of two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($250,000);

(2) Reasonable attorneys' fees; and

(3) Court costs.

(d) Upon a finding of forced marriage, the court shall order the marriage in question void.

(e) Notwithstanding § 28-3-104, an action under this section must be commenced within ten (10) years after the cause of action accrues by solemnization of marriage.

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§ 36-3-106. Consent of parent, guardian, next of kin, agency or custodian -- “Parent” defined.
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