Tenn. Code Ann. § 20-2-102: Security for costs and damages

The general sessions judge may, and the clerk shall, before issuing the summons or other leading process, require the plaintiff to enter into bond, with sufficient surety, conditioned to prosecute the plaintiff's suit with effect, or to pay such costs and damages as may be awarded against the plaintiff by the court having cognizance thereof, unless the plaintiff sue in forma pauperis.