NASHVILLE (AP) — The Tennessee Governor's Council for Judicial Appointments has forwarded three names to Gov. Bill Lee to consider for a Court of Appeals vacancy.

The council met last week for a public hearing and public interviews to narrow down the 16 applicants for the seat in the Eastern Division.

The candidates chosen were 10th District Chancellor Jerri S. Bryant of Athens, Sixth District Circuit Judge Kristi M. Davis of Knoxville and Third District Circuit Judge Thomas J. Wright of Greeneville.

The Court of Appeals vacancy will be created by the departure of Judge Charles D. Susano Jr., whose retirement is effective April 30.