Tennessee Code Title 17. Judges and Chancellors § 17-5-306

(a) When, in the preliminary judgment of the investigative panel, there is probable cause to believe the judge under investigation is guilty of one (1) or more of the offenses under § 17-5-301(j), or is suffering from a disability as set forth in § 17-5-302, it is the duty of disciplinary counsel to give the judge under investigation written notice of the details of the formal charges.

(b) The formal charges must give fair and adequate notice of the nature of the alleged misconduct or incapacity. The disciplinary counsel shall file the formal charges with the board. The disciplinary counsel shall cause a copy of the formal charges to be served on the judge or the judge's counsel by certified mail and shall file proof of service with the board.

(c) The judge has fourteen (14) days from the date of receipt of written notice of the formal charge to file an answer with the board and serve a copy on the disciplinary counsel.

(d) A judge who raises a defense based on a mental or physical condition waives any medical privilege.

(e) If the judge fails to answer the formal charges, then the failure to answer constitutes an admission of the factual allegations.

(f) If the judge fails to appear when specifically ordered to do so by the hearing panel or the board, the judge is deemed to have admitted the factual allegations that were to be the subject of the appearance and to have conceded the merits of any motion or recommendation to be considered at the appearance. Absent good cause, the hearing panel or board shall not continue or delay proceedings because of the judge's failure to appear.