Author name: Champagne Law

When someone passes away without a valid will, the law calls it dying “intestate.” In these cases, Tennessee courts don’t follow what the person may have wanted—they follow state intestacy laws to determine how property is divided and who will inherit. For families in Sevierville, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and across East and Middle Tennessee, understanding intestacy can help reduce confusion and guide you through the probate process. How Intestacy Works If no will exists, Tennessee’s intestacy statutes dictate how the estate is distributed. These rules provide a strict order of priority, designed to keep assets within the family. While the system ensures that someone inherits, it may not align with the deceased’s personal wishes, especially if they hoped to leave property to non-relatives, charities, or specific individuals. Who Inherits Under Tennessee Law Tennessee intestacy law generally distributes assets as follows: The Role of the Court When someone dies intestate, the court appoints an administrator to manage the estate. This person collects assets, pays outstanding debts, and distributes what remains according to Tennessee law. A spouse usually has priority, but children, relatives, or even creditors may petition to serve if necessary. Family disagreements sometimes arise during this process, delaying administration and increasing stress for everyone involved. The Risks of Intestacy Dying intestate leaves important decisions in the hands of the court, not the family. Without a will, there may be uncertainty over guardianship of minor children, distribution of sentimental property, or who should serve as estate administrator. These gaps often lead to conflict, higher legal expenses, and longer probate proceedings. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we help families navigate the probate process when a loved one has died intestate. Our attorneys explain Tennessee’s inheritance laws, represent heirs in disputes, and guide administrators through their legal responsibilities. Just as importantly, we also help clients create wills and trusts to prevent intestacy and ensure their wishes are honored. Planning Ahead Matters Dying intestate can leave your loved ones facing uncertainty and conflict. Taking the time to create an estate plan ensures your property is distributed the way you want, reduces family disputes, and provides peace of mind. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a consultation about probate, intestacy, or estate planning in Tennessee.

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 Gatlinburg order of protection lawyer can 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 Gatlinburg 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.

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.

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 Jefferson City 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 Jefferson City 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.

Firearms ownership in Tennessee comes with both rights and responsibilities. For gun collectors, hunters, and enthusiasts who own—or plan to own—certain regulated firearms, a gun trust can provide an extra layer of protection and flexibility. At Champagne Law Firm, we help individuals and families create customized gun trusts that comply with state and federal law while safeguarding firearms for future generations. What Is a Gun Trust? A gun trust is a special type of legal trust designed to hold and manage firearms, particularly those regulated by the National Firearms Act (NFA). These include suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and other Title II firearms. Unlike a traditional trust or will, a gun trust is drafted with the unique rules of federal firearms law in mind. Why Gun Trusts Matter Gun trusts serve several important purposes: Who Needs a Gun Trust? Not every firearm requires a trust, but they are highly recommended for: How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we assist clients throughout East and Middle Tennessee with creating and administering gun trusts. Our team ensures your trust is drafted to meet both Tennessee law and federal firearms regulations. For more on firearm laws in Tennessee, see the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security – Handgun Carry and Firearms Information page. Taking the Next Step If you own or plan to purchase NFA firearms, a gun trust can provide peace of mind and protection for you and your family. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a Tennessee gun trust attorney.

At Champagne Law Firm, our work in high-asset 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, 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 in law and finance makes her a trusted specialist in high-stakes divorces where substantial assets are on the line. 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-asset 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, 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-asset 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-asset 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. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a confidential consultation about high-asset divorce in Knoxville and throughout Tennessee.

When most people think of the legal system, they picture criminal cases—prosecutions, jail time, or courtroom trials. In reality, much of the law that affects individuals, families, and businesses every day falls under civil law. Civil law governs disputes between private parties, typically involving money, contracts, or rights, rather than criminal punishment. At Champagne Law Firm in Sevierville, Tennessee, we help clients navigate a wide range of civil law cases, protecting their rights and advocating for fair outcomes both inside and outside the courtroom. What Is Civil Law? Civil law is the branch of law that addresses disputes between individuals, organizations, or entities. Unlike criminal law which is focused on punishing illegal conduct. Civil law is concerned with resolving conflicts, enforcing agreements, and compensating parties who have been wronged. Civil cases are brought by one party (the plaintiff) against another (the defendant) and typically seek monetary damages, injunctions, or specific performance rather than criminal penalties. To better understand how civil cases proceed, the Tennessee Courts provide a helpful overview of the civil case process. Common Types of Civil Law Cases Civil law covers a broad spectrum of issues. Some of the most common categories include: Why Civil Law Matters Civil law provides a structured way to resolve disputes fairly and efficiently. Instead of taking matters into their own hands, individuals and businesses can rely on the court system to: Civil remedies are governed by Tennessee statutes, including Title 29 of the Tennessee Code, which outlines civil procedure. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm in Sevierville, we understand that civil disputes can be stressful, disruptive, and financially burdensome. Whether you’re a business owner facing a contract dispute, an individual injured in an accident, or a family member navigating estate litigation, our team is here to help. Attorney Kelly Champagne-Deutekom brings a unique perspective to civil law cases. As both a lawyer and former financial advisor, she offers practical, results-driven strategies that protect not only your legal rights but also your financial future. Our firm combines litigation skill with real-world business and financial insight, making us uniquely suited to handle complex civil cases. Take the Next Step If you are facing a dispute involving contracts, property, personal injury, or other civil matters, you don’t have to navigate it alone. A skilled Maryville, Tennessee civil law attorney can make the difference between prolonged uncertainty and a favorable resolution. Contact Champagne Law Firm today to schedule a confidential consultation. With offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we proudly serve clients throughout Middle and East Tennessee. Call us at 865-228-8080 to learn how we can help.

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 Newport 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 Cocke 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 Newport 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 Newport 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 Newport estate planning lawyer and begin protecting your legacy.

When legal disputes arise, heading straight to court isn’t always the best solution. Mediation offers a faster, more private, and often less stressful way to resolve conflicts—whether it’s a divorce, business disagreement, or property dispute. If you’re in Nashville or the surrounding areas, a Nashville mediation attorney can help you reach fair resolutions without the burden of lengthy litigation. Why Choose Mediation? Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) where a neutral mediator helps both sides negotiate a settlement. Unlike a judge, the mediator doesn’t make decisions but guides the process to find common ground. Mediation in Tennessee is: When Mediation Is Common in Davidson County Mediation is widely used in Middle and East Tennessee communities like Nashville, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Dandridge, Morristown, Jefferson City, Newport, Maryville, Townsend, and Rogersville for cases involving: Champagne Law Firm: Local Representation You Can Trust At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville, we guide clients through mediation with a focus on protecting their rights and achieving practical solutions. We prepare thoroughly, advocate for your interests, and ensure that any agreements reached are legally enforceable. Contact Us If you’re facing a dispute in Nashville or the surrounding communities, mediation may be the best path forward. Contact Champagne Law Firm today at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a confidential consultation with a Nashville mediation attorney.

Your time and priorities matter. At Champagne Law Firm, we understand that legal issues are stressful enough without unnecessary delays or unanswered questions. That’s why our firm is driven by one central promise: to provide relentlessly efficient representation. From the moment you contact us, our goal is to meet your legal needs with speed, precision, and unwavering dedication. What Efficient Representation Means Efficiency in law is not about rushing—it’s about focus. It means giving your case the attention it deserves while eliminating wasted time and needless complications. For our clients across Sevierville, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Nashville and Middle Tennessee, this means streamlined communication, thorough preparation, and legal strategies designed to deliver results without delay. Communication You Can Count On One of the most common frustrations clients face with attorneys is silence. Calls go unanswered, emails sit in inboxes, and clients are left wondering about the status of their case. At Champagne Law Firm, we take a different approach. We return calls and emails promptly, and we keep you apprised every step of the way. When you trust us with your legal matter, you’ll never be left in the dark. Precision with Every Step Relentless efficiency does not mean cutting corners—it means combining speed with accuracy. Whether drafting contracts, negotiating settlements, or preparing for trial, our attorneys move quickly while maintaining the highest standards of precision. We know that your time, your money, and your peace of mind are on the line, and we treat them with the respect they deserve. Dedication to Effective Solutions Ultimately, efficiency is about outcomes. Our mission is to resolve your legal matter effectively while minimizing disruption to your life and business. By keeping you informed, anticipating challenges, and pursuing solutions with determination, we make sure that your priorities remain at the center of our representation. Taking the Next Step with Confidence When you choose Champagne Law Firm, you’re choosing a team committed to relentless efficiency—representation that is responsive, precise, and fully dedicated to protecting your interests. Call Champagne Law Firm today at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a consultation and experience the difference of relentlessly efficient representation.