Business Law in Memphis
By Find Local Law Editorial Team · Last reviewed: May 26, 2026
Researched and drafted with AI assistance and verified against primary sources (statutes, Judicial Council forms, and official court websites). This is general information, not legal advice.
If you’re starting a company in Memphis, the entity itself is formed statewide through the Tennessee Secretary of State — that is where LLCs and corporations are registered, not in a county court. When a business dispute turns into litigation, it is typically heard in the Shelby County Chancery Court (equity and many commercial matters) or Circuit Court, both in the 30th Judicial District.
The filing office and court determine where your matter is handled; the substantive law lives in our statewide guides. Start with the Tennessee business law hub, then review choosing a business entity, forming an LLC, or business disputes.
Getting the structure right early prevents problems later. To get matched with a local Memphis business attorney, connect with a lawyer.
Filings & business courts
Court: Tennessee business entities are formed through the Tennessee Secretary of State statewide, while Memphis business disputes are litigated in the Shelby County Chancery Court or Circuit Court in the 30th Judicial District.
Forming or registering a business in Tennessee is done statewide through the Tennessee Secretary of State's office, not a county court. When a Memphis business dispute ends up in litigation, it is typically heard in the Shelby County Chancery Court (equity and many commercial matters) or Circuit Court, both in the 30th Judicial District. Verify the current filing offices, locations, and procedures on the official Secretary of State and court websites before you file.
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Start your free intakeFrequently asked questions
- Where do I register a business in Memphis?
- Tennessee business entities such as LLCs and corporations are formed statewide through the Tennessee Secretary of State's office, not a Shelby County court. Local business licenses are handled separately by the county and city.
- Which Memphis court handles a business dispute?
- Business and contract disputes are usually litigated in the Shelby County Chancery Court or Circuit Court in the 30th Judicial District. A local attorney can advise which court fits your matter.