Forced Marriage Prohibited — Civil Action

1. Law
2. Tennessee Code
3. Domestic Relations
4. Marriage
5. License
6. Forced Marriage Prohibited — Civil Action

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Upon a finding of forced marriage, the court shall order the marriage in question void.
5. 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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