TBA Law Blog

TBA Law Blog

ICYMI: Indigent Representation Proposal Includes New 'Office of Indigent Conflicts and Civil Counsel'

Posted by: Liz Slagle Todaro on Mar 7, 2025

The Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) on behalf of the Tennessee Supreme Court has proposed the development of a new structure for handling civil appointments for indigents and to handle criminal conflicts. Under the plan, the Tennessee Supreme Court would establish an “Office of Indigent Conflicts and Civil Counsel,” with oversight by an “Indigent Representation Commission.” The office would manage an estimated 76,000 cases each year, employing one statewide executive director and three attorneys — one in each grand division — as well as up to two full time or four part time attorneys who will all maintain their own caseloads. The office will implement strategic compensation structures using a combination of retainer, flat fee and hourly contracts, offering more competitive, predictable and intermittent compensation for attorneys who take appointed cases. The Supreme Court and the TBA believe that this new structure will better address the impending crisis in the administration of justice in Tennessee. Learn more about the plan and indigent representation in Tennessee and watch for our ongoing coverage of this issue. 

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