Tennessee Code Title 41. Correctional Institutions and Inmates § 41-21-804

(a) A court may dismiss a claim filed by an inmate, either before or after service of process on the defendant, if the court finds that:

(b) In determining whether a claim is frivolous or malicious under subsection (a), the court may consider whether or not:

(c) The court may hold a hearing to determine whether the allegation of poverty filed with the claim is false or whether the claim is frivolous or malicious. This hearing may be held before or after service of process on the defendant and may be held on motion of the court, a party to the claim or by any officer of the court.

(d) On the filing of a motion described under subsection (c), the court shall suspend all discovery relating to the claim pending the outcome of the hearing.