The replacement appointed by Governor Phil Bredesen for Chancellor Howell Peoples will serve until August, then will have to seek election to complete the Peoples term that ends in 2014.
Chancellor Peoples announced Monday he is resigning effective March 31.
A number of attorneys are expected to seek the post. Among those mentioned is Leah Gerbitz, Chattanooga attorney who is the daughter of Gary Gerbitz, former district attorney who later served as Criminal Court judge.
Laura Click of the state Supreme Court office said, "Once our office receives official notice of the vacancy from the governor, the Judicial Nominating Commission has 60 days to recommend three candidates to the governor. As part of this process, the Judicial Nominating Commission will accept applications and then hold interviews before making their recommendations.
"Once the governor makes his appointment, the newly elected judge will serve until August 2010, at which time, he/she has the opportunity to run for re-election.
"Whoever is elected in August will serve out the remainder of Chancellor People's term, which ends in 2014."