Local Rule LR3.1.2: Divisional Filing of Civil Actions or Proceedings

LR3.1.2 Divisional Filing of Civil Actions or Proceedings a. Divisions. The Eastern District of Tennessee is comprised of four divisions:

1. The Northeastern Division is comprised of Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hancock, Hawkins, Johnson, Sullivan, Unicoi, and Washington Counties.

2. The Northern Division is comprised of Anderson, Blount, Campbell, Claiborne, Grainger, Jefferson, Knox, Loudon, Monroe, Morgan, Roane, Scott, Sevier, and Union Counties.

3. The Southern Division is comprised of Bledsoe, Bradley, Hamilton, McMinn, Marion, Meigs, Polk, Rhea, and Sequatchie Counties.

4. The Winchester Division is comprised of Bedford, Coffee, Franklin, Grundy, Lincoln, Moore, Van Buren, and Warren Counties.

b. Division of Filing. Unless federal law provides otherwise, a plaintiff shall file a civil action or proceeding (1) in a division in which a defendant resides; or (2) a division in which a substantial part of the events or omissions giving rise to the claim occurred, or a substantial part of property that is the subject of the action is situated; or (3) if neither (1) nor (2) applies, a division in which a plaintiff resides.

c. Transfer of Division. This rule does not establish a right to any specific venue. The Court may, however, in its sole discretion, transfer any civil action or proceeding from the division in which it is pending to any other division for any reason, including the convenience of the Court, parties, or witnesses, or in the interest of justice.