Finding the Right Nashville Landlord Eviction Lawyer for Your Needs

When a tenant stops paying rent or violates the lease, you need a Nashville landlord eviction lawyer who can move quickly and protect your interests at every stage. Ryan Terrell Law, PLLC is a firm with a special interest in representing landlords and protecting their investments in Nashville TN, providing fast, lawful eviction assistance for landlords throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee.

Ryan Terrell is a Nashville-based attorney whose practice spans civil litigation, criminal defense, and business law. This combination matters for landlords because eviction disputes often escalate beyond simple nonpayment cases. The firm’s local expertise includes navigating the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), which governs rental properties in Davidson County, and familiarity with Nashville's General Sessions Court and URLTA requirements. When tenants make accusations of harassment, when police respond to incidents at your rental property, or when criminal activity complicates your ability to regain possession, you need an attorney who understands both sides of the courthouse.

Ryan represents property owners in Davidson County (Nashville), Rutherford County (Murfreesboro), Williamson County (Franklin), Sumner County (Hendersonville), Wilson County (Lebanon), and Robertson County (Springfield). Whether you own a single rental unit in East Nashville or manage a portfolio of properties across Middle Tennessee, Ryan can evaluate your situation and develop a strategy to resolve it. There is high demand for rental properties in Middle Tennessee, making it even more important to protect your rental income and ensure tenant compliance.

Call Ryan Terrell Law, PLLC at (615) 200-0449 or message us online to schedule your landlord eviction consultation today. The firm offers a free consultation for new clients.

Many landlord tenant disputes can be handled on short notice because eviction timelines in Tennessee move quickly. Missing a deadline can cost you weeks of lost rent and additional legal fees. The sooner you involve an experienced landlord tenant lawyer, the stronger your position becomes. The firm is committed to personalized service, listening to clients' concerns, and tailoring strategies to meet each client's needs.

Overview of Tennessee Landlord–Tenant and Eviction Law

Understanding how Tennessee landlord tenant law works is essential before you attempt to remove a tenant from your rental property. Tennessee landlord tenant laws form the foundation of the rental relationship between landlords and tenants in the state. Tennessee uses a two-tier system that depends on where your property is located.

The Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) applies to most residential leases in larger, urbanized counties. This includes Davidson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, Wilson, and Robertson Counties—the core of Middle Tennessee. URLTA establishes specific notice requirements, security deposit rules, and eviction procedures that landlords must follow precisely.

In counties where URLTA does not apply, different common law rules govern landlord tenant relationships. Notice periods, required documentation, and procedural steps can differ significantly. Before taking any legal action, landlords should confirm which set of tenant laws applies to their specific lease agreement and property location.

Written lease agreements are highly recommended as they provide a clear record of the rental agreement. Every lease agreement should specify the rent amount, payment due date, and acceptable payment methods. The lease should clearly state the lease duration, renewal options, and procedures for lease termination. Tennessee landlords must ensure their lease agreements comply with the Tennessee Landlord Tenant Act and the Federal Fair Housing Act.

One principle applies everywhere in Tennessee: self-help evictions are illegal. You cannot change the locks, shut off utilities, remove tenant belongings, or otherwise force a tenant out without going through the courts. Landlords who skip the eviction process face civil liability and, in some circumstances, criminal charges.

Most residential eviction proceedings begin in General Sessions Court. In Nashville, that means Davidson County General Sessions Court. After a detainer warrant is filed, strict timelines apply. Court hearings are typically scheduled within 6 to 10 business days, and the entire process can move quickly if you follow proper procedures.

Because eviction disputes often overlap with alleged criminal conduct—drug activity on the premises, assault allegations, property damage, or threats—Ryan’s background in criminal defense and civil litigation provides landlords with protection that eviction-only attorneys cannot offer.

Key points about Tennessee eviction law:

• URLTA governs most residential leases in Davidson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, Wilson, and Robertson Counties

• Evictions must go through the court system; self-help actions are prohibited under Tennessee law

• Most cases are filed in General Sessions Court with hearings typically within 1-3 weeks

• Criminal and civil issues frequently intersect in landlord tenant disputes

Landlord Rights and Duties in Nashville Eviction Cases

Nashville and Middle Tennessee landlords have specific legal rights when a tenant breaches the lease. Protecting your property and revenue is of the utmost importance, making it essential to understand these rights—and the corresponding duties owed to tenants—to build a stronger eviction case and avoid counterclaims.

When a landlord fails to maintain the property or provide essential services, they may face significant legal liabilities, and tenants have rights to seek remedies. Additionally, providing tenants with clear documentation and proper notices is crucial to avoid disputes and ensure compliance with legal requirements.

What Landlords Can Do

When a tenant fails to pay rent, damages property, or violates lease terms, Tennessee law gives landlords the right to pursue eviction through the courts. You can seek:

• Recovery of possession of your rental property

• A money judgment for unpaid rent and late fees

• Compensation for property damage beyond normal wear and tear

• Attorney fees if your written lease agreement includes a fee-shifting provision

• Enforcement of lease terms related to rent increases, provided such rent increases are specified in the lease agreement

Landlord Entry Rights

You also have the right to enter the premises for legitimate purposes such as:

• Making repairs

• Conducting inspections with reasonable notice

• Showing the unit to prospective tenants

However, these entry rights must be exercised reasonably and in accordance with your specific lease agreement.

Landlord Duties Under Tennessee Law

Tennessee law requires landlords to maintain a habitable living space for tenants. These duties include:

Maintaining Habitability

• Complying with applicable building, housing, and health codes

• Maintaining common areas in a safe condition

• Ensuring that electrical, plumbing, heating, and other essential systems are maintained properly

• Making repairs within a reasonable time after receiving notice of problems

Fair Housing Compliance

• Landlords must also honor fair housing requirements. The Tennessee Human Rights Commission and federal law prohibit housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, or disability.

• Violations can result in significant legal action against landlords and property management companies.

Tenant Remedies

When a landlord fails to maintain the property or provide essential services, tenants may have the right to:

• Seek remedies through the courts

• Withhold rent in certain circumstances (following proper legal procedures)

• File complaints with local housing authorities or the Tennessee Human Rights Commission

Common Lease Breaches Leading to Eviction

The most frequent reasons landlords seek legal assistance from a Nashville landlord eviction lawyer for evictions include tenant issues such as:

• Nonpayment of rent: When a tenant fails to pay rent for 14 days or more after receiving proper notice

• Unauthorized occupants or pets: Allowing people or animals not listed on the lease to live in the unit

• Property damage: Intentional or negligent destruction beyond normal wear and tear

• Illegal activity: Drug manufacturing, drug possession, or other criminal conduct on the premises

• Repeated lease violations: Ongoing noise complaints, nuisance behavior, or failure to comply with community rules

These tenant issues—like unpaid rent, property damage, or repeated violations—are common grounds for eviction and require landlords to follow proper legal procedures.

Proper Documentation

Before filing for eviction, landlords must follow Tennessee notice rules. Ryan can draft or review your notice to ensure it complies with state laws and will hold up in court.

For landlords facing eviction who are also facing accusations of illegal eviction, harassment, or discriminatory conduct, Ryan’s civil litigation and criminal defense experience allows him to defend against both civil claims and potential criminal charges simultaneously.

Step-by-Step Tennessee Eviction Process for Landlords

The eviction process in Tennessee follows a specific sequence. Understanding each step helps landlords avoid costly mistakes that delay possession and increase lost rent.

Step 1: Serve the Required Notice

• Before filing an eviction case, you must provide the tenant with written notice. Under URLTA, the type of notice depends on the reason for eviction:

• Non-URLTA counties may have different timelines. Always confirm the applicable rules with counsel before serving notice.

Step 2: File the Detainer Warrant

• If the tenant does not pay rent, cure the violation, or vacate the premises after receiving proper notice, the landlord files a detainer warrant in General Sessions Court. In Nashville, this is filed with the Davidson County General Sessions Court clerk.

• The filing triggers the court to schedule a hearing, typically within 6 to 10 business days.

• The tenant must be properly served with the detainer summons, usually by the sheriff’s office.

Step 3: Prepare for and Attend the Hearing

• Landlords should come to the hearing prepared with:

  • A copy of the lease agreement

  • A ledger showing rent payments and amounts owed

  • Copies of all notices served on the tenant

  • Photographs documenting any property damage

  • Text messages, emails, or other communications with the tenant

  • Any police reports or incident documentation

• Many eviction cases result in default judgments when tenants fail to appear. However, if the tenant does appear, having organized documentation and legal representation significantly improves your chances of success.

Step 4: Obtain Judgment and Writ of Possession

• If the court rules in your favor, you receive a judgment for possession of the property.

• The court may also award a money judgment for unpaid rent, damages, and potentially attorney fees depending on your lease terms.

• After judgment, you can request a Writ of Possession, which authorizes the sheriff or constable to physically remove the tenant and their belongings from the premises. This is the only lawful way to regain possession if a tenant refuses to leave voluntarily.

Step 5: Handle Potential Appeals

• Tenants have the right to appeal an adverse General Sessions judgment to Circuit Court.

• An appeal can delay removal by weeks or months, though the tenant typically must post a bond or continue paying rent during the appeal period.

• Having an attorney who regularly litigates in both General Sessions and Circuit Courts—like Ryan—helps keep your case on track even if the tenant attempts to delay through appeals.

If you are about to serve notice or file a detainer warrant, call (615) 200-0449 or message us online before acting so Ryan can evaluate the facts and strengthen your case from the outset.

Illegal Evictions, Criminal Exposure, and Protecting Landlords

Landlords who skip the court process and attempt self-help evictions expose themselves to serious consequences. Maintaining proper records is essential, as it helps address issues effectively when disputes arise between landlords and tenants. Understanding these risks—and knowing how to address them if you have already made a mistake—is critical.

Civil and Criminal Liability for Self-Help Evictions

Under Tennessee law, landlords who change locks, remove tenant belongings, or shut off utilities without a court order face civil liability. Courts can award tenants damages up to three months’ rent plus attorney fees for wrongful lockouts. In some circumstances, these actions can also result in criminal charges.

Even well-intentioned landlord attempts to address dangerous situations can backfire legally. Entering the unit without proper notice, removing property you believe was abandoned, or disconnecting services to encourage a tenant to leave can all trigger legal action against you.

When Disputes Escalate to Criminal Allegations

Eviction disputes sometimes escalate into allegations of assault, harassment, trespass, vandalism, or unlawful entries. These accusations can lead to criminal investigations by Nashville police or sheriff’s deputies in surrounding counties.

Consider these realistic scenarios:

• Confrontation over nonpayment: A landlord confronts a tenant about overdue rent. The conversation becomes heated, and the tenant later files a police report alleging assault or threats. The landlord now faces potential criminal charges while still needing to complete the eviction.

• Property inspection gone wrong: A landlord enters the unit to inspect reported damage. The tenant was not properly notified and calls police to report criminal trespass. The landlord is now defending against criminal charges while the tenant uses the incident to delay eviction.

• Utility disconnection: A property manager disconnects water service to a problem tenant. The tenant files a complaint, and the property manager faces misdemeanor charges for an illegal eviction tactic.

How Criminal Defense Experience Protects Landlords

Ryan’s primary practice in criminal defense gives him a unique ability to protect landlords accused of crimes arising from eviction disputes or landlord–tenant confrontations. He can:

• Defend against criminal charges while coordinating the related eviction

• Advise on interactions with law enforcement to avoid self-incrimination

• Navigate both the criminal and civil court systems simultaneously

• Minimize overall exposure when multiple legal issues intersect

If you have been contacted by Nashville police or a local sheriff’s office about an incident at your rental property, call (615) 200-0449 or message us online immediately. Avoid giving detailed statements until you have spoken with counsel.

Handling Security Deposits, Unpaid Rent, and Property Damage

Proper handling of security deposits and documentation of damages often determines whether a landlord’s eviction case succeeds or faces costly counterclaims.

Security Deposit Rules for Tennessee Landlords

• Document the condition of the unit at move-in and move-out with photos and written inspections

• Keep deposit funds in a designated account (not commingled with personal funds)

• Return the deposit within the timeframe specified by law after the tenant vacates, along with an itemized list of any deductions

• Apply deposits only to unpaid rent, late fees authorized by the lease, and actual damage beyond normal wear and tear

Landlords cannot use security deposits to cover routine maintenance or repairs needed due to normal tenancy. Mishandling deposits often triggers counterclaims from tenants at eviction hearings.

Proper Documentation

Documenting Unpaid Rent

To recover unpaid rent in court, maintain clear records:

• Monthly ledger showing rent due, payments received, and outstanding balances

• Copies of all rent notices and demands sent to the tenant

• Bank records showing bounced checks or failed electronic payments

• Any written communications acknowledging the debt

Proving Property Damage

If seeking compensation for property damage, document everything:

• Move-in inspection with dated photographs

• Move-out inspection with dated photographs showing damage

• Contractor estimates or repair invoices

• Receipts for replacement items

Poorly documented damage claims give tenants ammunition to dispute your case. Having Ryan review your documentation before court can neutralize potential counterclaims and strengthen your position.

For landlords with significant lost revenue—large amounts of unpaid rent or extensive property damage exceeding the security deposit—Ryan can pursue separate civil actions to recover these amounts. This is particularly valuable for property owners with multiple units or high-value residential leases.

When a Landlord Needs a Criminal Defense–Focused Eviction Lawyer

Some eviction situations are too complex or dangerous for landlords to handle without an attorney who understands both criminal defense and civil litigation. Knowing when to seek legal advice can prevent small problems from becoming major liabilities.

Red Flags Requiring Immediate Legal Assistance

You should not attempt a do-it-yourself eviction if:

• Tenants are dealing drugs from the property or engaging in other illegal activity

• Police have responded to repeated calls at the unit for violence, weapons, or domestic disturbances

• The tenant has made serious threats against you, your family, or neighbors

• There are existing restraining orders or orders of protection between you and the tenant

• The tenant has accused you of illegal eviction tactics, harassment, or discrimination

• You have already been contacted by law enforcement about an incident at the property

Criminal Activity on the Premises

When tenants engage in criminal conduct at your rental property, the situation requires careful coordination between law enforcement and the eviction process. Ryan can help landlords:

• Report criminal activity appropriately without jeopardizing the eviction case

• Pursue expedited eviction procedures available for certain criminal violations

• Protect yourself from claims that you knew about illegal activity and failed to act

• Coordinate with prosecutors if criminal charges are filed against tenants

The Advantage of Broad Legal Experience

Ryan’s practice spans criminal defense, civil litigation, and business law. For landlords, this means:

Landlords who own multiple properties, operate through LLCs, or face related contract disputes benefit from having a single attorney who can address all these issues rather than coordinating between multiple law offices.

If you suspect criminal activity at your rental property, or if you have a pending criminal case tied to a tenant dispute, call (615) 200-0449 or message us online for a strategy session.

How Ryan Terrell Law, PLLC Represents Landlords in Eviction and Tenant Disputes

When landlords contact Ryan Terrell Law, PLLC, they receive a thorough evaluation of their situation and a clear plan for resolving disputes efficiently.

The Intake Process

Ryan begins every landlord representation with a detailed intake:

• Review the complete history with the tenant, including all incidents and communications

• Examine the lease agreement for enforceable provisions and potential weaknesses

• Analyze payment records to document unpaid rent and late fees

• Assess any criminal or safety issues that affect strategy

• Identify potential defenses the tenant might raise

This comprehensive approach ensures that landlords understand their options before committing to a course of action.

Services for Nashville and Middle Tennessee Landlords

Ryan handles the full range of landlord tenant matters:

• Lease drafting and review: Creating written lease agreements that protect landlord interests and comply with Tennessee law

• URLTA compliance: Advising on notice requirements, entry procedures, and security deposit handling

• Eviction prosecution: Filing and litigating detainer actions in General Sessions Court

• Defense against tenant claims: Responding to wrongful eviction allegations, habitability complaints, and deposit disputes

• Contract litigation: Pursuing or defending claims related to property management agreements and vendor contracts

• Collections: Recovering money judgments for unpaid rent and damages

Local Court Experience

Ryan regularly appears in General Sessions and Circuit Courts throughout Middle Tennessee. This includes Davidson County (Nashville), Rutherford County, Williamson County, Sumner County, Wilson County, and Robertson County. Familiarity with local judges, court procedures, and practical expectations helps cases move efficiently and avoids unnecessary delays.

Business Law for Property Investors

For landlords with multiple properties or operating companies, Ryan provides business law guidance on:

• Forming LLCs to protect personal assets from tenant lawsuits

• Structuring property ownership for tax efficiency and liability protection

• Drafting contracts with property managers, maintenance vendors, and contractors

• Managing disputes with business partners or investors

Recent case results, client testimonials, and additional practice information are available on the firm’s website. Reviewing these resources can help you understand how Ryan has helped other landlords facing eviction challenges in Middle Tennessee.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee Landlord Evictions

Landlords dealing with eviction questions in Nashville and surrounding counties often have similar concerns. The following answers provide general guidance, though specific circumstances require a consultation with an attorney.

Can tenants withhold rent if repairs are not made?
Under Tennessee law, tenants may have the right to withhold rent as a legal remedy if landlords neglect necessary repairs or fail to maintain safe and habitable living conditions. If essential services, such as heat, water, or electricity, are not provided, tenants may lawfully withhold rent, but this must be done in accordance with state law. Tenants should follow proper legal procedures and document all communications and repair requests.

What should be included in a lease agreement regarding rent?
A lease agreement should clearly outline rent payments, due dates, and late fees. Clear communication about these terms helps prevent misunderstandings between landlords and tenants.

How much notice do I have to give a tenant in Nashville for nonpayment of rent?

Under URLTA, which applies in Davidson County and most Middle Tennessee counties, landlords must provide a 14-day written notice for nonpayment of rent. The notice must specify the exact amount due and inform the tenant that failure to pay will result in termination of the tenancy. Precise requirements can vary based on your specific lease agreement and the county where your property is located.

Can I immediately change the locks if my tenant stops paying?

No. Tennessee law prohibits self-help evictions. You cannot change locks, remove belongings, shut off utilities, or otherwise force a tenant out without going through the court process. Landlords who attempt self-help evictions face civil liability (potentially up to three months’ rent plus attorney fees) and possible criminal charges.

What should I do if there is suspected criminal activity in my rental unit?

For emergencies involving immediate danger, call 911. For ongoing concerns about drug activity, weapons, or other crimes, contact local law enforcement to make a report. Then reach out to Ryan to coordinate the criminal situation with your eviction strategy. Handling these situations correctly protects you from liability while helping ensure the eviction proceeds smoothly.

Do I need a lawyer for an eviction in General Sessions Court?

While not legally required, having an attorney who understands both eviction procedures and potential criminal angles often saves time and money. Tenant defenses have become more sophisticated—data shows 25% of Nashville evictions now involve countersuits for habitability breaches or other claims. An experienced landlord eviction lawyer can anticipate these defenses and prepare your case accordingly.

How long does the eviction process take in Nashville?

In straightforward cases, a Nashville eviction can be completed in 3-4 weeks from filing the detainer warrant to executing the Writ of Possession. However, contested cases, tenant appeals, or court backlogs can extend this timeline. Having proper documentation and legal representation typically results in faster resolutions.

Can I recover attorney fees in an eviction case?

Tennessee law allows recovery of attorney fees from tenants in eviction cases where the landlord prevails, provided the lease includes an attorney fee provision. Ryan can review your lease agreement to determine whether fee recovery is available in your case.

Landlords with additional questions should call (615) 200-0449 or message us online to schedule a confidential consultation with Ryan Terrell Law, PLLC.

Call Ryan Terrell Today

Landlords across Nashville and Middle Tennessee face challenging situations when tenants stop paying rent, damage property, or create dangerous circumstances at rental units. Having a landlord eviction lawyer who understands both the civil litigation side and the potential criminal defense implications provides protection that general practice attorneys simply cannot offer.

Ryan Terrell Law, PLLC combines extensive experience in criminal defense, civil litigation, and business law to handle both straightforward nonpayment evictions and high-risk cases involving alleged crimes or serious disputes. Whether you need help drafting enforceable lease terms, pursuing an eviction in General Sessions Court, defending against wrongful eviction accusations, or navigating a situation where criminal charges have been filed, Ryan has the knowledge and courtroom experience to protect your interests.

Early legal assistance consistently leads to better outcomes for landlords. Serving proper notice, documenting your case correctly, and understanding your rights under Tennessee law puts you in the strongest possible position to recover possession of your property, collect unpaid rent and damages, and avoid the civil and criminal liability that traps landlords who act without guidance.

Contact Ryan Terrell Law, PLLC at (615) 200-0449 or message us online to discuss your landlord eviction or tenant dispute today.

Consultations are available for landlords throughout Davidson, Rutherford, Williamson, Sumner, Wilson, and Robertson Counties. When your rental property and financial interests are at stake, you deserve a Nashville landlord eviction lawyer who will fight for the resolution you need.