Author name: Champagne Law

Getting pulled over for speeding in Dandridge is stressful, whether you are a lifelong resident or a visitor exploring Dollywood, Douglas Lake, and the Smoky Mountains. The Dandridge Police Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the Tennessee Highway Patrol, actively patrol major roads, making traffic enforcement a priority. What feels like “just a ticket” can quickly lead to higher insurance premiums, points on your license, or even the suspension of your driving privileges. If you’ve received a speeding ticket in Dandridge or anywhere in Jefferson County, hiring an experienced attorney is one of the smartest decisions you can make. At Champagne Law Firm, our Dandridge speeding ticket lawyer helps locals, commercial drivers, and tourists protect their records and their wallets. Why a Speeding Ticket Matters More Than You Think Paying a fine might seem like the easiest option, but a conviction for speeding has long-term consequences under Tennessee traffic laws. Having a Jefferson County traffic attorney on your side can often prevent these outcomes by fighting to reduce or dismiss the charges. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, we don’t just handle tickets—we handle them strategically. Our legal team offers: Locals, Tourists, and Commercial Drivers May All Benefit for Attorney Services  No matter your situation, our goal is to fight for the best possible outcome so you can move forward without lasting consequences. Contact Our Dandridge Speeding Ticket Lawyer Today When you search for a Dandridge speeding ticket lawyer or a traffic attorney in Jefferson County, Tennessee, we want you to know that Champagne Law Firm is here with the experience and dedication you deserve. Don’t let a speeding citation damage your record or your future. Whether you live in Jefferson County or you were just passing through, Champagne Law Firm can fight for your rights and help you achieve the best possible resolution. Call us today at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

Falling behind on debt payments can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s credit cards, personal loans, or business obligations, mounting debt can lead to constant calls from creditors, threats of lawsuits, and growing financial stress. Many people in this situation consider debt negotiation or debt settlement as a way to get back on track. But while these tools can provide relief, navigating them without professional help can expose you to risks. At Champagne Law Firm, we help individuals and business owners across Tennessee negotiate with creditors and protect their legal rights while working toward financial stability. What Is Debt Negotiation and Debt Settlement? Both strategies can provide relief, but they require careful handling to avoid tax consequences, credit damage, or legal missteps. The Risks of Going It Alone Many debt settlement companies advertise quick fixes, but they often come with hidden risks: This is where an attorney provides significant advantages. How an Attorney Can Help with Debt Negotiations Unlike non-attorney debt negotiators, an experienced attorney offers both negotiation skills and legal protection: Champagne Law Firm: Debt Relief with Legal Strength At Champagne Law Firm, we know that debt issues don’t happen in isolation—they affect your family, your business, and your long-term financial security. Attorney Kelly Champagne-Deutekom’s background as both a financial advisor and an attorney allows her to provide a comprehensive approach to debt relief, balancing legal strategy with financial planning. Whether you’re considering debt negotiation, settlement, or exploring other options like bankruptcy, we ensure your decisions are informed, strategic, and tailored to your goals. Take Control of Your Debt You don’t have to face creditors alone. Debt negotiation and settlement can be effective tools, but they are most powerful when combined with skilled legal guidance. Contact Champagne Law Firm today to schedule a confidential consultation. We proudly serve clients throughout Middle and East Tennessee, with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville. Call us at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to learn how we can help protect your financial future.

Driving under the influence (DUI) in Tennessee can be a stressful and life-altering experience. With a DUI conviction comes severe consequences—jail time, hefty fines, license suspension, ignition interlock requirements, and long-term financial and personal implications. But remember: an arrest isn’t a conviction. Meticulous defense, grounded in a deep understanding of the law, can make all the difference. DUI Penalties in Tennessee Penalties escalate with each offense: Legislative Changes & Aggravating Factors can increase penalties—even for first-time offenders. Additional information regarding DUI Offenses can be found on the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security website. Common Legal Defenses in DUI Cases Solid DUI defense in Tennessee centers on undermining the state’s evidence. Common strategies include: With strategic review, charges may be reduced or cases dismissed entirely. Why You Should Work With a DUI Defense Attorney Appointing an experienced attorney ensures that: Your Next Steps A DUI arrest doesn’t have to define your future. Taking immediate action gives you the best chance to preserve driving privileges, your record, and your long-term well-being. If you or someone you care about is facing a DUI in Tennessee, don’t wait. Contact your trusted DUI defense attorney today. Champagne Law Firm serves the communities of Middle and East Tennessee with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville. Call us today at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.

Kelly brings a level of expertise not often seen in the pursuit of high stakes securities litigation and investment-loss recovery. She is a highly regarded securities litigation, asset protection, and estate planning attorney and a former licensed financial advisor with a deep understanding of investments and the law. A Wall Street veteran, Kelly knows how products are sold, how firms record (and sometimes obscure) risk, and how arbitration panels evaluate claims. That practical experience, combined with litigation skill, positions her to assist individuals, families, and business entities in pursuing recovery efficiently and strategically. Can I Sue My Financial Advisor? The short answer is – it depends. Many investors assume losses are “just the market.” In reality, a significant portion of investment losses stem from misconduct, unsuitable recommendations, or failures in supervision and those losses may be recoverable. The key is acting quickly, preserving evidence, and having an advocate who understands both Wall Street and the law. Are Your Losses Potentially Recoverable? The short answer is – maybe. Investment-loss claims commonly arise from one or more of the following: Not every market loss is actionable, but many are. A focused review by a knowledgeable securities attorney can separate market risk from misconduct. Where Do You Bring a Claim? FINRA Arbitration Most brokerage customer agreements contain mandatory FINRA arbitration clauses. That means your path typically runs through FINRA Dispute Resolution rather than a courtroom. Arbitration is designed to be: Mediation (often through FINRA) can resolve cases even faster, at lower cost, and with more control over outcomes. Advisory (RIA) Accounts & Other Forums Registered Investment Advisers (RIAs) may use different forums, such as AAA, JAMS, or court, depending on your contract. Some RIAs include arbitration clauses; others do not. We review your agreements to determine jurisdiction and the best strategy. Why Kelly Champagne-Deutekom Investors deserve straight answers, strategic leverage, and a path to real recovery. That’s the standard we bring to every case. Talk to an Investment-Loss Attorney Our goal is simple: maximize net recovery after fees, costs, and taxes. If you suspect misconduct or unsuitable advice led to your losses, contact Champagne Law Firm to schedule a confidential evaluation. We stand ready to represent individuals, families, and business entities throughout Tennessee and nationwide in securities arbitration and litigation. Licensing & Jurisdiction Notice: While our licensure is state-specific, we represent investors in securities arbitrations across the United States. Court appearances outside our licensed jurisdictions are handled with local counsel and pro hac vice admission when required.

Selling your business is more than a financial transaction — it’s the culmination of years of hard work, personal sacrifice, and investment. Whether you’re ready to retire, transition into a new venture, or simply step away, the sale of your company should reward your effort and secure your future. But without the right legal guidance, you risk leaving money on the table or exposing yourself to unnecessary liabilities. At Champagne Law Firm, we understand the complexity of business sales in Tennessee. Led by Kelly Champagne-Deutekom, our team brings a rare advantage to the negotiating table: Kelly’s dual background as both a former financial advisor and now an experienced attorney. Why You Need Legal Counsel When Selling a Business Many business owners assume that once a buyer is found, the rest of the process is straightforward. In reality, the sale of a business is one of the most complicated transactions you can face. From deal structure to tax planning, every detail matters. An attorney ensures: Without an experienced attorney, sellers often overlook terms that can cost them significantly after the deal closes. The Advantage of Kelly Champagne-Deutekom What sets Kelly Champagne-Deutekom apart is her deep understanding of both financial and legal strategy. This combination gives Kelly a unique ability to align the business side of the sale with the legal framework that protects her clients’ interests. Key Considerations When Selling a Business At Champagne Law Firm, we walk business owners through every phase of the sale, including: Our goal is simple: to maximize the value of your business while minimizing your risks. Avoiding Common Mistakes Business owners who go into a sale without legal guidance often: The right attorney prevents these missteps and positions you for long-term success. Champagne Law Firm: Defending Today. Planning Tomorrow. Selling your business is one of the most important financial events of your life. With her dual expertise as a financial advisor and attorney, Kelly Champagne-Deutekom is uniquely qualified to help Tennessee business owners maximize value and secure peace of mind. If you’re considering selling your business, contact Champagne Law Firm today. We’ll guide you from preparation to closing, ensuring your legacy is protected and your future is secured.

Blended families are increasingly common across Tennessee. Whether you are entering a second marriage, raising stepchildren, or managing obligations to children from a prior relationship, your estate plan requires careful thought. The goal is usually twofold: to provide for your spouse while also ensuring your children are not unintentionally disinherited. Without a coordinated plan, family conflict and unintended outcomes are all too common. At Champagne Law Firm, we help families navigate this delicate balance by designing customized estate planning solutions that reflect your real wishes, protect relationships, and reduce the risk of disputes. Key Tools for Blended Family Estate Planning Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements Tennessee law specifically enforces prenuptial (antenuptial) agreements that are entered freely, in good faith, and without duress. These agreements can clarify expectations, protect premarital property, and reduce the chance of disputes down the road. Even after marriage, postnuptial agreements can serve as important clarifying tools, especially where significant assets or business interests are involved. Coordinated Beneficiary Designations Beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, pensions, and life insurance policies override the instructions in your will or trust. Without review and coordination, children from a prior marriage could be unintentionally excluded or a spouse could be left unprotected. A well-designed estate plan audits these designations, aligns them with your overall intentions, and ensures there are no hidden gaps. Avoiding Common Pitfalls Blended family estate planning in Tennessee often runs into pitfalls that can undo even the best of intentions. For example: At Champagne Law Firm, we focus on aligning each element of your plan—wills, trusts, titles, and designations so they work together as a complete and cohesive strategy. Thought Leadership and Financial Perspective Choosing the right estate planning attorney is especially critical in second-marriage planning. Many clients are balancing assets like retirement accounts, investment portfolios, and business ownership interests. Our founding attorney, Kelly Champagne-Deutekom, brings a unique background as both a Wall Street veteran and an estate planning attorney. This dual perspective helps clients design estate plans that are not only legally enforceable but also designed with finances and investments in mind.  For a deeper perspective on financial advisor credentials and selection, see Champagne Law Firm’s feature on Yahoo Finance: Cracking the Code: The Husking of Financial Advisor Designations Talk With Us Estate planning for blended families is about more than documents—it’s about protecting relationships, honoring commitments, and creating peace of mind for everyone involved. We take the time to map out multiple scenarios and outcomes, so your plan reflects exactly what you want, no matter what the future holds. Together, we can create a plan that provides for your spouse, protects your children, and safeguards your legacy. Call us today at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with an experienced Tennessee estate planning lawyer and begin protecting your legacy. Champagne Law Firm serves the communities of Middle and East Tennessee with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville.

Planning for the future is about more than deciding who gets what—it’s about ensuring that your loved ones are protected, your wishes are honored, and your legacy is preserved. You may already have an idea of how you want your property and personal affairs handled but turning those intentions into a legally enforceable plan can feel overwhelming. Or perhaps you’re unsure where to start and need guidance in identifying your goals and the best way to achieve them. At Champagne Law Firm, our Nashville estate planning lawyer helps individuals and families throughout Tennessee create customized, legally sound plans so you can move forward with confidence knowing your affairs are in order. Essential Estate Planning Documents A strong estate plan is made up of legal documents that work together to protect your assets and your personal well-being. Our Tennessee estate planning attorney can prepare and review: Trust and will attorneys also assist with business succession planning, charitable giving strategies, and asset protection plans to shield your wealth from creditors and lawsuits. If you are curious about the legal process after a loved one passes, the Davidson County Probate Court website offers helpful local information. High-Net-Worth Estate Planning Expertise At Champagne Law Firm, we specialize in complex estate planning for entrepreneurs, investors, business owners, and multi-generational family enterprises. Our experience with high-net-worth estate planning allows us to integrate asset protection and business succession strategies into a single cohesive plan. If you own multiple properties, have substantial investments, manage a closely held business, or wish to preserve wealth for future generations, our team at Champagne Law Firm brings experienced professionals in finance and law. The creation of an estate plan often involves estate planning attorneys working alongside your financial advisors, CPAs, and family office professionals to ensure every detail is addressed. Click here to view Champagne Law Firm’s publication on Yahoo Finance, titled Cracking the Code: The Husking of Financial Advisor Designations. Estate Planning for Second Marriages and Blended Families If you are in a second marriage or have a blended family, estate planning becomes more complex. You may wish to provide for your current spouse while also ensuring that children from a prior marriage receive their intended inheritance. Without proper planning, state law may not divide your assets the way you intended. Our estate planning lawyers in Nashville use tools such as marital trusts, prenuptial agreements, and blended family wills to avoid conflict. A Qualified Terminable Interest Property (QTIP) trust, for example, can provide income for a surviving spouse during their lifetime, with the remaining assets passing to your children afterward. Why Everyone Needs an Estate Plan Many believe estate planning is only for the wealthy, but anyone can benefit from a solid plan. Without one, state intestacy laws decide who inherits your property, which may not reflect your wishes. An estate plan ensures: Even though Tennessee no longer imposes a state inheritance tax, residents should still understand potential federal tax obligations. The Tennessee Department of Revenue’s estate and inheritance taxpage offers helpful information. Keep Your Estate Plan Current Life changes and your plan should too. Major life events like marriage, divorce, a birth, or changes in your financial situation should prompt an immediate review of your estate plan. Even without a major event, reviewing your documents every three to five years ensures they remain current and enforceable. Contact Our Nashville Estate Planning Lawyer Today Estate planning can be daunting, but you don’t have to handle it alone. At Champagne Law Firm we take the time to understand your priorities, explain your options, and craft a plan tailored to your needs. Call us today at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with an experienced Nashville estate planning lawyer and begin protecting your legacy. Champagne Law Firm serves the communities of Middle and East Tennessee with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville.

When personal safety is at risk, Tennessee law provides a critical tool—orders of protection. Commonly known as restraining orders, these court-issued remedies are designed to stop abuse, stalking, harassment, or threats and to protect victims from further harm. At the same time, for individuals who have been served with an order, the stakes are equally serious: violations carry criminal consequences and can affect everything from employment to parenting rights. Whether you are seeking protection or responding to an order, understanding the process is vital. Who Qualifies for an Order of Protection? Tennessee law authorizes orders of protection for victims of domestic abuse, stalking, sexual assault, and certain other harmful conduct. Domestic abuse includes not only spouses and romantic partners but also former partners, roommates, and close family members. A person seeking protection may file a petition with the court. In urgent cases, a judge can issue a temporary ex parte order the same day before the accused party is even notified. This provides immediate protection. Within 15 days, a full hearing is scheduled where both parties have the opportunity to present testimony, evidence, and witnesses. The Tennessee Courts website offers forms, filing locations, and step-by-step instructions, but the process can still feel overwhelming without legal guidance. An experienced Pigeon Forge order of protection lawyercan help ensure your petition or your defense is handled properly. What an Order Can Do An order of protection is more than just a “no contact” directive. Depending on the situation, a court may: Violating any of these provisions is a criminal offense. Beyond criminal penalties, a violation can affect professional licenses, background checks, and future legal matters. If You Are Seeking Protection The more evidence you provide, the stronger your case. Consider taking these steps: Document incidents: Keep a detailed log of dates, times, and descriptions of abusive or threatening behavior. Save evidence: Preserve text messages, emails, voicemails, social media posts, or photos that support your claims. Identify witnesses: Friends, neighbors, or coworkers who have seen or heard the conduct can provide powerful testimony. Act quickly in emergencies: If there is immediate danger, call 911. After filing, carry a copy of the order with you at all times. You may also want to inform your employer, school officials, or childcare providers so they can take precautions if needed. Having an attorney will help ensure your petition is persuasive and presented clearly to the judge. If You Have Been Served with an Order Being served with an order of protection can feel shocking and unfair. However, it is important to respond carefully. Ignoring the order or violating it even if you believe the allegations are exaggerated or false can lead to criminal charges. Steps to take include: Read the order thoroughly and follow it exactly, even if it feels inconvenient. Collect evidence such as texts, emails, or social media interactions that show consent or contradict the allegations. Identify witnesses who can testify on your behalf. Work with an attorney who can negotiate boundaries, prepare your defense, and represent you in court. Remember, an order of protection hearing is a civil proceeding, but violations are criminal matters. Having strong legal representation can help prevent collateral consequences to your job, family, and reputation. How Our Firm Can Help Orders of protection are often tied to larger issues like divorce, child custody, or criminal charges. Our attorneys understand how these cases overlap and take a comprehensive approach to protect your rights and your future. We recognize the stress these cases bring, and we strive to provide the guidance and advocacy you need. Contact a Pigeon Forge Protection Order Lawyer Whether you need protection or are responding to an order, it is critical to act quickly and strategically. Our experienced attorneys at Champagne Law Firm handle these cases with the urgency and care they demand. Call 865-228-8080 today to schedule a confidential consultation.

Divorce is never simple, but when significant assets are involved, the stakes rise dramatically. High net worth divorces in Tennessee often include multiple properties, business interests, investment portfolios, and complex financial arrangements. For individuals in Sevierville, Nashville, and across East and Middle Tennessee, here are seven things to know if you’re facing a divorce with substantial assets. 1. Full Financial Disclosure Is RequiredTennessee law requires both parties to disclose all assets and liabilities. Attempting to hide income, accounts, or property can lead to serious legal consequences and negatively impact the final settlement. 2. Business Interests Must Be Valued AccuratelyIf one or both spouses own a business, determining its true value is critical. This often requires financial experts to assess revenues, debts, goodwill, and future earning potential. 3. Investments and Retirement Accounts Are DividedHigh net worth divorces often involve complex portfolios—stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and retirement accounts. Each requires careful evaluation to ensure equitable division and compliance with federal rules like QDROs (IRS – Qualified Domestic Relations Orders). 4. Property Division Can Be ComplicatedMultiple homes, vacation properties in the Smoky Mountains, and real estate investments add layers of complexity. Tennessee is an “equitable distribution” state (Tennessee Code Title 36 – Domestic Relations), meaning assets are divided fairly, though not always equally. 5. Tax Consequences Must Be ConsideredTransferring or dividing assets can trigger significant tax liabilities if not handled properly. Working with attorneys who understand both the legal and financial aspects is essential to avoid costly mistakes. 6. Spousal Support May Be ContestedAlimony in high net worth divorces is often a central issue. Courts look at factors like the length of the marriage, standard of living, and earning capacity of each spouse. Disputes can arise over both the amount and duration. 7. The Right Legal Team Makes All the DifferenceHigh net worth divorces require more than standard legal representation. Attorneys must coordinate with financial advisors, CPAs, and valuation experts to protect your interests. Having a team with both legal and financial experience ensures a stronger outcome. Kelly Champagne-Deutekom’s Unique ExpertiseAt Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, our work in high net worth divorce cases is guided by Kelly Champagne-Deutekom’s rare combination of skills. Before becoming an attorney, Kelly worked as a financial advisor for one of the nation’s leading firms, advising high-net-worth clients on investments, business interests, and complex asset portfolios. Today, she brings that financial expertise to the courtroom as an attorney, identifying, valuing, and protecting assets ranging from stocks and bonds to closely held businesses and real estate. Kelly often works alongside CPAs, valuation experts, and financial professionals to ensure her clients are positioned for the best possible outcome. This dual perspective—law and finance—makes her a trusted specialist in high-stakes divorces where substantial assets are on the line. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a confidential consultation about high net worth divorce in Tennessee.

Driving under the influence (DUI) in Tennessee can be a stressful and life-altering experience. With a DUI conviction comes severe consequences—jail time, hefty fines, license suspension, ignition interlock requirements, and long-term financial and personal implications. But remember: an arrest isn’t a conviction. Meticulous defense, grounded in a deep understanding of the law, can make all the difference. DUI Penalties in Tennessee Penalties escalate with each offense: Legislative Changes & Aggravating Factors can increase penalties—even for first-time offenders. Additional information regarding DUI Offenses can be found on the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security website. Common Legal Defenses in DUI Cases Solid DUI defense in Tennessee centers on undermining the state’s evidence. Common strategies include: With strategic review, charges may be reduced or cases dismissed entirely. Why You Should Work With a DUI Defense Attorney Appointing an experienced attorney ensures that: Your Next Steps A DUI arrest doesn’t have to define your future. Taking immediate action gives you the best chance to preserve driving privileges, your record, and your long-term well-being. If you or someone you care about is facing a DUI in Tennessee, don’t wait. Contact your trusted DUI defense attorney today. Champagne Law Firm serves the communities of Middle and East Tennessee with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville. Call us today at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.