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TNRule 1.4

Client Communication Rules for Tennessee Law Firms

Tennessee attorneys must keep clients reasonably informed about case status, promptly respond to information requests, and explain matters for informed decisions.

Rule 1.4 Key Requirements

  • 1Promptly inform clients of decisions requiring consent
  • 2Consult about means to accomplish client objectives
  • 3Keep clients reasonably informed about case status
  • 4Respond promptly to reasonable information requests
  • 5Explain matters for informed decision-making
View official rule text

Additional Tennessee Requirements

Language Access

Tennessee does not have formal language access requirements for attorneys, but the state has growing Hispanic and Kurdish communities, particularly in Nashville and the Memphis area.

Key languages: Spanish, Kurdish, and Arabic

Statute of Limitations

Attorneys must notify clients of applicable statutes of limitations. Tennessee generally has a 1-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, one of the shortest in the nation.

Tennessee-Specific Considerations

  • Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville markets have different expectations
  • Strong personal injury and medical malpractice practice
  • Healthcare industry in Nashville creates unique cases
  • Tourism in Nashville and Gatlinburg generates injury cases

How Quilia Helps Tennessee Firms Stay Compliant

  • Automated updates serve Tennessee's diverse markets
  • Treatment tracking supports personal injury management
  • Mobile platform reaches clients across Tennessee
  • Secure messaging protects confidential communications
  • Communication logs demonstrate Rule 1.4 compliance

Tennessee Legal Resources

Tennessee Bar Association

Official WebsiteDiscipline & Ethics

Tennessee Trial Lawyers Association(TNTLA)

Trial lawyers association providing practice resources and advocacy.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions: Tennessee Attorney Communication

What are Tennessee attorney communication requirements?

Tennessee Rule 1.4 requires keeping clients reasonably informed, responding promptly to inquiries, and explaining matters for informed decisions.

How do Tennessee attorneys serve diverse markets?

Tennessee attorneys adapt communication styles for Nashville, Memphis, and rural communities.

What are penalties for communication failures in TN?

The Board of Professional Responsibility can pursue sanctions from private censure to disbarment.

Does Tennessee require written fee agreements?

Written agreements are required for contingency fees and recommended for all matters.

How does Quilia help Tennessee firms?

Quilia serves diverse Tennessee markets with automated updates and flexible communication.

Are electronic communications accepted in Tennessee?

Yes, electronic communications are fully accepted with appropriate security measures.

What communication issues lead to TN complaints?

Common complaints include failure to return calls, inadequate updates, and unresponsiveness.

How should TN PI attorneys handle communication?

Personal injury attorneys should provide regular updates on case status and treatment coordination.

Legal Terms Every Tennessee Attorney Should Know

Clear communication requires understanding these fundamental concepts. Click any term to learn more.

NegligenceDamagesStatute of LimitationsLiabilitySettlementContingency FeeDiscoveryDuty of Care
Browse all legal terms →
Last updated: January 24, 2026
Reviewed by: Quilia Legal Compliance Team
Primary Source: Tennessee Bar Association

Keep Your Tennessee Clients Informed - Automatically

Quilia helps Tennessee law firms maintain Rule 1.4 compliance while reducing administrative burden and improving client satisfaction.

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