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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 Nashville 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 Nashville 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.

For Tennessee business owners, the company you’ve built represents more than financial success — it’s your legacy. The question is not just how to grow your business today, but how to ensure it continues after you retire, transition leadership, or in the event of the unexpected. Without a thoughtful succession plan, even the most successful enterprises risk conflict, financial loss, or collapse. At Champagne Law Firm, we partner with business owners across East and Middle Tennessee from our offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville to create customized succession strategies. What sets our firm apart is the leadership of Kelly Champagne-Deutekom, who brings a rare combination of experience as both a former financial advisor and now as a seasoned attorney. Why Succession Planning Is Essential A succession plan ensures your business can thrive beyond your direct involvement. Without one, disputes may arise over ownership, management decisions, or distribution of assets. A strong plan can: In short, succession planning protects both the people you care about and the business you’ve worked hard to build. The Kelly Champagne-Deutekom Advantage Many attorneys draft legal documents for succession planning. Few bring the depth of financial and business insight that Kelly does. Before becoming an attorney, Kelly Champagne-Deutekom worked as a licensed financial advisor, managing complex portfolios, advising high-net-worth clients, and analyzing business valuations. She knows firsthand how assets are structured, how retirement and investment plans function, and how financial institutions view ownership transfers. Today, as an attorney, Kelly integrates that financial knowledge with legal precision. She understands not only what the law requires, but also how business, family, and financial interests must align for a plan to succeed in practice. This dual perspective makes her uniquely equipped to guide Tennessee business owners through every facet of succession planning. Tools for Effective Succession Planning At Champagne Law Firm, we use a wide range of strategies to create comprehensive plans tailored to each client. These often include: For business owners exploring long-term strategy, the Small Business Administration (SBA) succession planning resources offer helpful insights. Planning Early Brings Peace of Mind One of the most common mistakes business owners make is waiting too long to start succession planning. Unexpected illness, disputes, or economic downturns can create turmoil if no plan is in place. Starting early allows you to gradually prepare your successors, test strategies, and ensure the business is positioned for the future. At Champagne Law Firm, Kelly works closely with business owners to build plans that are both practical and protective. Her dual experience ensures that your strategy doesn’t just look good on paper, but also works in real-world financial and legal contexts. For Tennessee-specific resources, visit the Secretary of State Business Services Division, which provides guidance on business entities and legal filings. Champagne Law Firm: Defending Today. Planning Tomorrow. Your business deserves a plan as strong as the effort you’ve invested in it. With her unique combination of financial advisory experience and legal expertise, Kelly Champagne-Deutekom stands apart as a trusted advocate for Tennessee business owners. If you’re ready to protect your company’s future, contact Champagne Law Firm today to begin building a succession plan that safeguards your legacy and provides peace of mind for generations to come.

At Champagne Law Firm in Sevierville, Tennessee, we often collaborate with IRS Enrolled Agents to give our clients complete support—blending legal strategy with specialized tax knowledge. What Is an Enrolled Agent? An Enrolled Agent is a tax professional licensed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Unlike CPAs or attorneys, who are licensed at the state level, Enrolled Agents hold a federal license that allows them to practice in all 50 states. Enrolled Agents are the only federally licensed tax practitioners who specialize exclusively in taxation and have unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS. More information about their role can be found on the IRS Enrolled Agents page. How Do You Become an Enrolled Agent? There are two primary paths: All Enrolled Agents must pass a background check, uphold ethical standards, and complete annual continuing education requirements set by the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA). What Can Enrolled Agents Do for Sevierville Residents and Businesses? Because they focus exclusively on taxation, Enrolled Agents can provide powerful representation and advice in situations such as: For Sevierville business owners, retirees, and families alike, working with an Enrolled Agent can bring peace of mind when dealing with the IRS. Why Pair an Enrolled Agent with a Sevierville Attorney? While Enrolled Agents provide tax expertise, attorneys add another layer of protection—especially when tax issues overlap with legal matters like estate planning, business succession, contracts, or litigation. At Champagne Law Firm, attorney Kelly Champagne-Deutekom brings a unique perspective as both a former financial advisor and practicing attorney. By collaborating with Enrolled Agents, CPAs, and financial advisors, our firm delivers a comprehensive approach—covering legal, tax, and financial strategies—to protect our clients in Sevierville and beyond. Final Thoughts Whether you’re dealing with an IRS audit, need help resolving back taxes, or simply want to plan ahead, an Enrolled Agent can be an invaluable ally. Paired with the legal guidance of an experienced Sevierville attorney, you’ll have a team dedicated to protecting your rights and financial well-being. Contact Champagne Law Firm in Sevierville today to learn more about how we work with IRS Enrolled Agents to serve individuals, families, and businesses across East Tennessee. Call us at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation. Navigating tax law can be overwhelming. Whether you’re facing an audit, dealing with back taxes, or trying to plan for your financial future, it helps to have a professional on your side who understands the complexities of federal tax law. One of the most effective tax professionals in this space is an IRS Enrolled Agent (EA). At Champagne Law Firm in Sevierville, Tennessee, we often collaborate with IRS Enrolled Agents to give our clients complete support—blending legal strategy with specialized tax knowledge. What Is an Enrolled Agent? An Enrolled Agent is a tax professional licensed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Unlike CPAs or attorneys, who are licensed at the state level, Enrolled Agents hold a federal license that allows them to practice in all 50 states. Enrolled Agents are the only federally licensed tax practitioners who specialize exclusively in taxation and have unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS. More information about their role can be found on the IRS Enrolled Agents page. How Do You Become an Enrolled Agent? There are two primary paths: All Enrolled Agents must pass a background check, uphold ethical standards, and complete annual continuing education requirements set by the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA). What Can Enrolled Agents Do for Sevierville Residents and Businesses? Because they focus exclusively on taxation, Enrolled Agents can provide powerful representation and advice in situations such as: For Sevierville business owners, retirees, and families alike, working with an Enrolled Agent can bring peace of mind when dealing with the IRS. Why Pair an Enrolled Agent with a Sevierville Attorney? While Enrolled Agents provide tax expertise, attorneys add another layer of protection—especially when tax issues overlap with legal matters like estate planning, business succession, contracts, or litigation. At Champagne Law Firm, attorney Kelly Champagne-Deutekom brings a unique perspective as both a former financial advisor and practicing attorney. By collaborating with Enrolled Agents, CPAs, and financial advisors, our firm delivers a comprehensive approach—covering legal, tax, and financial strategies—to protect our clients in Sevierville and beyond. Final Thoughts Whether you’re dealing with an IRS audit, need help resolving back taxes, or simply want to plan ahead, an Enrolled Agent can be an invaluable ally. Paired with the legal guidance of an experienced Sevierville attorney, you’ll have a team dedicated to protecting your rights and financial well-being. Contact Champagne Law Firm in Sevierville today to learn more about how we work with IRS Enrolled Agents to serve individuals, families, and businesses across East Tennessee. Call us at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.

Divorce is always a challenge, but when it involves business ownership, complex investments, or multiple real estate holdings, the process requires more than a standard approach. In these situations, you need an attorney who understands not just family law, but also the financial realities behind asset division. At Champagne Law Firm in Sevierville, Attorney Kelly Champagne-Deutekom is a sought-after specialist in high-stakes and high-asset divorce cases. Before becoming an attorney, Kelly spent years as a financial advisor with one of the nation’s leading investment firms. This background allows her to analyze financial portfolios, business interests, and property holdings with precision—giving her clients an edge in divorce negotiations and litigation. Why Financial Insight Is Critical in High-Asset Divorce Dividing significant assets is not just about splitting numbers on paper. It often involves: Kelly’s financial background allows her to identify undervalued or overlooked assets, anticipate tax impacts, and ensure her clients are positioned for both immediate and long-term stability. A Team Approach to Complex Divorce Cases High-asset divorces often require input from multiple professionals. Kelly regularly collaborates with: This team-based approach ensures every angle is covered, giving clients confidence in both the process and the outcome. Protecting Your Future in Sevierville If you’re facing a divorce in Sevierville that involves businesses, investments, partnerships or complex property holdings, you need more than a traditional family law attorney. You need an advocate who can bridge the gap between finance and law to protect your wealth and your future. We proudly serve clients throughout Middle and East Tennessee, with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville. Contact Champagne Law Firm today to speak with a Sevierville high stakes and high-asset divorce attorney who brings both financial and legal expertise to the table. Call 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.

Going through a contested divorce where spouses disagree about issues like child custody, property division, alimony or parenting time can be emotionally and financially draining. One common question is whether mediation is required. In Tennessee, the short answer is: yes, in most cases, but there are important exceptions. What Is Mediation in Tennessee Divorce? Mediation is a form of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). A neutral third party—a Rule 31 listed mediator—helps both sides try to reach agreement on the contested issues without going through a full trial. It’s intended to reduce the conflict, save time and money, and give the parties more control over the outcome.  The Law: Tennessee Statute & Rule When Mediation Is Mandatory Mediation in Tennessee divorce cases is required before a trial date can be set in most contested divorces especially where there are unresolved issues involving children.  Parties must generally attempt to settle all disputed issues through mediation first, unless an exception applies Common Exceptions: When Mediation Can Be Waived There are several situations where the court may not require mediation or allow it to be skipped or modified. Some of the common exceptions include: What Happens in Mediation Why Having an Attorney Matters Even though mediation is required (in most contested cases), having experienced legal counsel is very helpful. An attorney can: How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, our divorce lawyers assist clients across Tennessee in navigating the mediation requirement in contested divorces. We evaluate whether your case must go through mediation, whether an exception may apply, and help you prepare for mediation with strategy and clarity. If mediation doesn’t resolve everything, we are ready for trial, ensuring your interests are fully represented. Bottom Line If you’re facing a contested divorce in Tennessee, call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a consultation, find out whether mediation applies in your case, and understand your legal strategy.

Getting pulled over for speeding in Seymour is stressful, whether you are a lifelong resident or a visitor exploring Dollywood and the Smoky Mountains. The Sevier 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 Seymour or anywhere in Sevier County, hiring an experienced attorney is one of the smartest decisions you can make. At Champagne Law Firm, our Seymour 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 Sevier 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 Seymour Speeding Ticket Lawyer Today When you search for a Seymour speeding ticket lawyer or a traffic attorney in Sevier 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 Sevier 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.

Trespassing may seem like a minor offense, but in Tennessee, a conviction can carry significant legal consequences. Whether it happens on private property, at a business, or in a recreational setting, a trespassing charge can leave you with fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. If you or a loved one has been charged with trespassing in Sevierville, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Morristown, Jefferson City, Newport, Maryville, Townsend, Nashville, or Rogersville, it’s important to understand the law and your rights. At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we defend clients across East and Middle Tennessee who are facing trespassing and other criminal charges. What Is Trespassing in Tennessee? Under Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-14-405, criminal trespass occurs when someone knowingly enters or remains on property without the consent of the owner. The law covers situations such as: If a person ignores clear warnings or refuses to leave when instructed, a simple situation can quickly escalate into a criminal charge. Penalties for Trespassing Trespassing in Tennessee is typically charged as a Class C misdemeanor, which can result in: In some circumstances, such as trespassing in schools or utility facilities, penalties can be more severe. Common Trespassing Situations In East Tennessee, trespassing charges often arise in: Defending Against Trespassing Charges Not every trespassing charge is straightforward. Possible defenses include: An experienced defense attorney can analyze the details of your case and work to minimize or dismiss the charges. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, we take trespassing charges seriously because even “minor” offenses can have lasting consequences. Our attorneys work to: Contact Us If you are facing a trespassing charge in Tennessee, don’t face it alone. Skilled legal representation can make the difference between a permanent record and a second chance. Contact Champagne Law Firm today at 865-228-8080 or reach out online for a confidential consultation. With offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we represent clients across East and Middle Tennessee.

Working as a bartender, server, or retail liquor store employee in Sevier County can be rewarding, but it also carries serious legal responsibilities. Tennessee law strictly prohibits the sale of alcohol to anyone under 21, and violations can lead to citations, fines, license suspensions, and even criminal charges. At Champagne Law Firm, we represent hospitality workers and retail employees in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and across Sevier County who have been cited for selling alcohol to underage customers. We understand how stressful these cases can be, especially when your job and future employment are on the line. The Law on Underage Alcohol Sales in Tennessee Under Tennessee Code Annotated § 57-5-301 and related statutes, it is illegal to: Violations can result in: Who Gets Cited? Citations for selling alcohol to minors are not limited to business owners. They often target: In Sevier County’s tourism-heavy communities, undercover compliance checks are common. Law enforcement and TABC agents frequently run stings at bars, restaurants, and liquor stores to enforce the law. Why Legal Representation Matters Even a single citation can have serious consequences for your record, career, and future. Having an experienced attorney by your side can make the difference between a costly mistake that follows you for years and a manageable resolution. At Champagne Law Firm, we can help by: How Champagne Law Firm Helps Sevier County Workers Attorney Kelly Champagne-Deutekom understands the unique pressures faced by hospitality and retail workers in a tourist hub like Sevier County. Whether you were cited during an undercover sting in Gatlinburg, a restaurant service in Pigeon Forge, or behind the counter at a Sevierville liquor store, our firm can provide the representation you need. We take a strategic, compassionate approach protecting your rights while working toward the best possible outcome so you can move forward with your life and career. Final Thoughts If you are a bartender, server, or liquor store employee in Sevier County who has been cited for selling alcohol to someone underage, don’t face the legal system alone. These charges carry serious consequences, but with skilled legal representation, you may be able to protect your record, your reputation, and your livelihood. Contact Champagne Law Firm today to speak with a Sevier County liquor law defense attorney. We proudly serve clients in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and across East Tennessee. Call 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.

A trip to Pigeon Forge is meant to be filled with mountain views, family adventures, and unforgettable memories. But when an accident happens whether on the road, at a Smoky Mountain attraction, or in a local business the excitement can quickly turn into stress, pain, and financial hardship. When you’re injured because of someone else’s negligence, having the right legal team on your side makes all the difference. Why Legal Representation Matters Navigating a personal injury case can be complex, and legal representation is often recommended to ensure that the injured party’s rights are protected and that they receive fair compensation for their losses. Insurance companies often try to settle quickly, offering far less than what a victim truly needs to cover medical bills, lost income, and long-term suffering. A skilled attorney helps level the playing field. What a Personal Injury Attorney Does At Champagne Law Firm, we advocate for clients every step of the way. Our role includes: Many cases are resolved through settlements, but when a fair resolution cannot be reached, we are prepared to take the case to court and fight for the outcome our clients deserve. Common Personal Injury Cases in Pigeon Forge In a tourist destination like Pigeon Forge, personal injury cases come in many forms: No matter the type of injury, the common thread is negligence—someone failed to take reasonable care, and you’re left paying the price. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help With offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, Champagne Law Firm serves both locals and visitors who suffer injuries in Pigeon Forge and throughout Middle and East Tennessee. Our attorneys understand the unique challenges of personal injury cases in a tourist town, from navigating insurance coverage to addressing jurisdictional issues when out-of-state visitors are involved. We take the time to listen to your story, build a strategy tailored to your needs, and fight for full compensation. Take the First Step Toward Recovery The days after an accident are stressful, but you don’t have to face them alone. If you’ve been injured in Pigeon Forge or anywhere in the Smoky Mountain region, let Champagne Law Firm stand by your side. Call us today at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a Pigeon Forge personal injury attorney.

When you hire a contractor in Sevierville, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or the surrounding areas, you expect the job to be done on time and to the standard you agreed upon. But when delays, unfinished work, or broken promises occur, it can cost you valuable time and money. That’s when you may need a Sevierville contractor dispute attorney. At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we represent property owners across East and Middle Tennessee—including Dandridge, Morristown, Jefferson City, Newport, Maryville, Townsend, and beyond—who are facing disputes with contractors. Common Contractor Disputes Contractor disputes often arise from: If your contractor’s negligence or intentional actions caused you losses, you may have legal grounds to seek damages. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help We work with clients to: Our experience allows us to help homeowners and business owners protect their investments and hold contractors accountable. Contact Us If you are dealing with a contractor dispute in Sevier County or nearby communities, don’t let delays or poor workmanship jeopardize your project. Contact Champagne Law Firm today at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a confidential consultation with a Sevierville contractor dispute attorney.