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Hiring a contractor to build, remodel, or repair your property is a big investment. Whether you’re constructing a new home in Sevierville, renovating a rental property in Gatlinburg, or expanding a business in Morristown, you expect the work to be completed on time and to the standard agreed upon. Unfortunately, contractors sometimes fail to deliver. When delays, poor workmanship, or broken promises occur, you may wonder: can I sue my contractor? At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville, we represent property owners across Middle and East Tennessee—including Pigeon Forge, Dandridge, Jefferson City, Newport, Maryville, Townsend, Nashville, and beyond who find themselves in disputes with contractors. Common Causes of Contractor Delays Not every construction delay is grounds for a lawsuit. Some setbacks are beyond the contractor’s control, such as: However, other delays may be considered inexcusable and could form the basis of a legal claim. These include: When Can You Sue a Contractor in Tennessee? You may be able to file a lawsuit if a contractor’s negligence or intentional conduct caused significant delays or damages. Common legal grounds include: Keep in mind that if you caused the delay—such as by failing to make the property available, withholding payments, or changing project details then the contractor could attempt to sue you for losses. Types of Damages You May Recover If your contractor is at fault for delays or other failures, you may be able to recover compensation for: How to Protect Yourself To strengthen your case, always: How Champagne Law Firm Can Help Contractor disputes are stressful and often expensive. At Champagne Law Firm, we understand the construction landscape in Sevier County and throughout Middle and East Tennessee. We work with property owners to: With offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville, our firm is positioned to help clients across Tennessee, from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge to Nashville, Maryville, Townsend, and Jefferson City. Final Thoughts Not every construction delay is lawsuit-worthy, but when your contractor’s negligence or poor management costs you time and money, legal remedies may be available. The Board for Licensing Contractors was established in 1931 to regulate contractors in the State of Tennessee. The current requirements for the licensure of contractors, home improvement contractors, limited licensed electricians, and limited licensed plumbers can be found in Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 62, Chapter 6. For more on contractor licensing visit the website for the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. If you’re dealing with a contractor dispute in Sevier County or the surrounding communities, Champagne Law Firm is here to protect your investment and pursue the outcome you deserve.

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 Dandridge 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 Jefferson 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 Dandridge 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 Dandridge 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 Dandridge estate planning lawyer and begin protecting your legacy.

Divorce often raises difficult questions about money, especially when one spouse has been financially dependent on the other. In Tennessee, alimony also known as spousal support is one of the most commonly disputed issues in divorce cases. Whether you are seeking support or being asked to pay it, understanding how alimony works and what disputes can arise is essential for protecting your financial future. What Is Alimony in Tennessee? Alimony is court-ordered financial support that one spouse pays to the other after separation or divorce. Its purpose is to help balance the economic impact of divorce, especially when one spouse has significantly less income or earning ability. Tennessee courts recognize several types of alimony, including rehabilitative support (to help a spouse reenter the workforce), transitional support, long-term support, and lump-sum alimony. Why Do Alimony Disputes Arise? Spousal support disputes are common because they directly affect both parties’ financial stability. Disagreements often center on: How Tennessee Courts Decide Alimony Tennessee courts consider a wide range of factors when deciding alimony, including the length of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, age, health, and contributions to the household. Judges have broad discretion, which is why alimony outcomes can vary greatly from one case to another. Resolving Spousal Support Disputes Some disputes can be resolved through negotiation or mediation, where both spouses and their attorneys work toward an agreement outside of court. Others require litigation, especially when the stakes are high or compromise is not possible. Having a knowledgeable attorney ensures your interests are protected, whether you are seeking alimony or contesting it. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we represent clients in all types of alimony disputes. Our team helps analyze financial records, present evidence to the court, and negotiate fair outcomes. We understand how spousal support can shape your financial future, and we fight to make sure the court sees the full picture. Taking the Next Step If you are facing a dispute over alimony or spousal support, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. The right legal guidance can make all the difference in achieving a fair resolution. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a consultation about alimony and spousal support in Tennessee.

Staying in a cozy cabin in Sevierville or a chalet in Gatlinburg for vacation is one of life’s great pleasures. But for property owners who rent out their vacation homes, and for guests staying in them, there are legal and regulatory issues to navigate—especially now that Sevier County has updated rules around short-term rentals. If you own or manage a vacation or cabin rental in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Wears Valley or nearby, understanding those rules can protect your investment—and save you from headaches down the road. Sevier County’s Short-Term Rental Permit Program Sevier County now requires all short-term rental units (STRUs) outside city limits to have an annual permit and pass yearly inspections. The Short-Term Rental Unit Permit Program ensures safety standards—fire alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, escape routes, electrical safety, smoke detectors—all are up to code. If you rent a cabin, condo, or other property to vacationers, you need to apply via Sevier County’s system (CommunityConnect), schedule inspections, pay permit fees (which vary depending on capacity), and stay compliant every year. Failure to do so can result in fines or loss of rental privileges. (For full details, see the county’s permit info page.) seviercountytn.gov Over 6,500 such units are currently operating, which means compliance isn’t optional—it’s essential. seviercountytn.gov What Owners Often Overlook Even owners who know about the permit often underestimate what an inspection or permit renewal entails. Some common pitfalls include: These oversights can lead to delays, failed inspections, or even legal consequences. How a Local Attorney Can Be Your Guide When laws change, or you’re trying to get your vacation rental or cabin rental up to code, having legal guidance can make a big difference. A local attorney who understands Sevier County’s STRU permit program can help you: At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, as well as Nashville and Rogersville, we help owners throughout East Tennessee get ahead of regulatory changes—so you’re compliant, you minimize risk, and you preserve your rental income. A Practical First Step If you own a cabin rental or vacation property in the Smokies: If you have questions about navigating the permit process for your vacation rental or cabin, or if you want to make sure your guest contract, liability coverage, or property management agreement is legally solid, Champagne Law Firm is here to help. Call 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a consultation—and make sure your rental business in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Wears Valley or Sevierville is built on firm ground.

An assault charge in Tennessee is a serious criminal offense that can have long-lasting consequences. Whether the allegation involves a fight, a threat, or a misunderstanding, a conviction can impact your freedom, reputation, and future opportunities. If you or a loved one has been accused of assault in Sevierville, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Morristown, Jefferson City, Newport, Maryville, Townsend, Nashville, or Rogersville, it’s important to understand what’s at stake and how to defend your rights. At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we provide skilled defense representation for clients facing assault charges across East and Middle Tennessee. What Is Assault in Tennessee? Under Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-13-101, assault occurs when someone: This means that assault does not always require physical injury—threats and unwanted contact can also qualify as criminal assault. Types of Assault Charges Tennessee law recognizes different levels of assault, including: Potential Consequences of an Assault Conviction A conviction for assault in Tennessee may result in: Defenses to Assault Charges Every case is unique, but common defenses may include: An experienced defense attorney can analyze your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument, and fight for the best possible outcome. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, we know the stakes are high when you’re facing assault charges. We work tirelessly to: With offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we are positioned to serve clients throughout East and Middle Tennessee. Contact Us If you’ve been charged with assault in Tennessee, don’t face the court system alone. A strong defense strategy can make all the difference. Contact Champagne Law Firm today at 865-228-8080 or reach out online for a confidential consultation with an experienced Tennessee criminal defense attorney.

Owning property is a cornerstone of security and investment for many Tennesseans. But what happens when a boundary line comes into question and a dispute arises with a neighbor? Lot line disputes are among the most common and often the most emotional property conflicts. They can strain relationships, reduce property values, and even escalate into lawsuits. At Champagne Law Firm, we help property owners in Sevierville, Nashville, Rogersville, and across Tennessee resolve boundary disputes through negotiation, mediation, and, when necessary, litigation. What Is a Lot Line Dispute? A lot line dispute occurs when neighbors disagree about where one property ends and the other begins. These disputes often involve: Because land is one of the most valuable assets you can own, even small strips of disputed property can lead to serious legal battles. Common Causes of Boundary Conflicts Lot line disputes often arise from: How to Resolve a Lot Line Dispute The best approach often depends on the seriousness of the conflict and the willingness of neighbors to cooperate: Why Legal Guidance Is Essential Lot line disputes are not just about land—they can impact property value, title, and long-term ownership rights. Without clear resolution, you may face challenges when trying to sell or refinance your property. An experienced attorney can: How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, we understand that neighbor disputes can be stressful and personal. Our goal is to resolve conflicts efficiently, while protecting your financial and property interests. Attorney Kelly Champagne-Deutekom’s dual background in finance and law gives her a unique perspective on how boundary disputes can affect both your legal rights and your property’s value. Final Thoughts Disputes over lot lines are common, but they don’t have to spiral out of control. With the right legal guidance, you can resolve disagreements, protect your property, and restore peace of mind. Contact Champagne Law Firm today to discuss your situation with a knowledgeable Tennessee property attorney. We serve clients across Middle and East Tennessee, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville. Call 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.

Every construction project begins with more than just blueprints and budgets—it begins with a contract. Whether you’re building a new home in Sevierville, expanding a commercial space in Pigeon Forge, or renovating rental property in Nashville, the contract sets the rules for how the project moves forward. When done correctly, it creates clarity and accountability. When done poorly, it opens the door to disputes, delays, and financial loss. The Role of Construction Contracts A well-drafted contract is the backbone of any construction project. For residential builds, it spells out expectations between homeowners and contractors, from timelines to payment schedules to warranties. In commercial construction, contracts often cover more complex issues, including multiple subcontractors, performance standards, and liability provisions. These agreements don’t just outline what needs to be done—they determine how risks will be managed when something goes wrong. Where Problems Begin Disputes in construction often stem from vague or incomplete contracts. When responsibilities aren’t clear, questions about delays, defects, or payment disputes can quickly escalate. Homeowners may feel stuck when a contractor doesn’t deliver on promises, and businesses can face financial strain when projects run over budget or past deadlines. These problems can sometimes be resolved through negotiation, but when they aren’t, the contract becomes the foundation for resolving the conflict in court. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we represent both property owners and contractors in commercial and residential disputes. We review, draft, and enforce construction contracts, ensuring that our clients’ rights are protected from the very beginning of a project. And when disagreements arise, we bring the experience needed to resolve disputes effectively—whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation. Taking the First Step Toward Protection Construction is an investment of time, money, and trust. Protecting that investment starts with having the right agreements in place. Whether you’re a homeowner preparing to build your dream house or a business planning your next development, having an experienced attorney by your side ensures that your project rests on a strong legal foundation. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a consultation about your construction contract needs.

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.

At Champagne Law Firm, this isn’t just a tagline—it’s who we are. Every client we serve comes to us with immediate concerns, but also with hopes for a more secure future. That’s why our mission is simple: defend your rights today while building a strategy to protect tomorrow. Whether you’re facing a legal crisis or planning for the next chapter of your life, our attorneys are here to provide both strength and foresight. Defending Your Rights Today Legal challenges demand action. Criminal charges, civil disputes, or urgent business conflicts require a firm that won’t hesitate to protect your interests. Our attorneys take an aggressive approach to defense, working quickly to understand your case, identify weaknesses in the opposition, and push for results that safeguard your present. When the stakes are high, you deserve a team that stands firmly in your corner. Planning for the Future But our commitment doesn’t stop with today’s battles. Planning tomorrow means creating a roadmap that protects you, your family, and your business for years to come. Estate planning, business succession, contracts, and asset protection strategies are all part of building a secure future. We combine legal knowledge with strategic foresight to ensure that you aren’t just reacting to problems—you’re prepared for them before they arise. A Balanced Approach What sets Champagne Law Firm apart is the balance of these two roles. We are defenders when you need us most and planners when you look ahead. By blending immediate action with long-term vision, we provide representation that addresses every stage of your life and business. Defending today and planning tomorrow means you never have to choose between short-term protection and long-term security. The Champagne Law Firm Difference With offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we proudly serve individuals, families, and businesses across East and Middle Tennessee. From protecting your rights in the courtroom to safeguarding your legacy through thoughtful planning, we are relentless in pursuing the best outcomes for our clients. Call Champagne Law Firm today at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a consultation. Let us defend you today—and help you plan for tomorrow.

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 Sevierville 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 Sevier 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 Sevierville 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 Sevierville 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 Sevierville 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.