Tennessee Code Ann. § 16-20-101

(a)  The general assembly finds and declares that: 

(1)  The resolution of felony, misdemeanor and juvenile delinquent disputes can be costly and complex in a judicial setting where the parties involved are necessarily in an adversarial posture and subject to formalized procedures; and 

(2)  Victim-offender mediation centers can meet the needs of the state's citizens by providing forums in which persons may voluntarily participate in the resolution of disputes in an informal and less adversarial atmosphere. 

(b)  It is the intent of the general assembly that programs established pursuant to this chapter: 

(1)  Stimulate the establishment and use of victim-offender mediation centers to help meet the need for alternatives to the courts for the resolution of certain disputes; 

(2)  Encourage continuing community participation in the development, administration and oversight of local programs designed to facilitate the informal resolution of disputes between and among members of the community; 

(3)  Offer structures for dispute resolution that may serve as models for centers in other communities; and 

(4)  Serve a specific community or locale and resolve disputes that arise within that community or locale.