Sheriff's Fees

Sheriffs receive fees from the public for services they perform. However, pursuant to T.C.A. § 8-24-103(a)(2), the sheriff must pay over to the trustee, on a monthly basis, all of the fees, commissions, and charges collected by the sheriff’s office during the month. Because the sheriff is no longer on the “fee system,” it is the duty of the county legislative body to make the necessary appropriation and pay to the sheriff the authorized expenses fixed by law for the operation of the sheriff's office, direct from the county trustee in 12 equal monthly installments, irrespective of the fees earned by the sheriff. T.C.A. § 8-24-103(a)(1).